How To Style: HIS Sweatpants for Work

If you missed my last post, I talked about styling HER sweats for work. Today we will focus on HIM. I feel like this athleisure trend is a Godsend to boys. I could be wrong, this perspective is coming from a woman after all. Compared to women, men have limited choices when it comes to clothing in general. So when companies started selling the “dressy sweatpant” many men leaped for joy! Well at least the ones I know.

If you want to take a risk and try this out, here are some things to keep in mind when looking for a pair.

Material – The material can’t be casual. Basically make sure it doesn’t match the ones you wear to the gym, to sleep, or while playing videogames covered in Dorito crumbs.

Color/Pattern – Solid colors are your friends, preferably a darker wash to hide that they are in fact sweatpants. And though those logos and designs are tempting, resist, unless of course they are a subtle plaid or pin stripe. I’ve seen those and they’re hella cute.

Style –Most of these have an elastic waist band which is ok. But if you can, try and opt for the ones that are partially elastic. Meaning the section at the front is a regular button closure while the back is the elastic. This will help you hide the lounge wear in plain sight.

Fit – You want a tailored pant because you don’t want to look like a slob. Avoid the drop crotch for my beloved harem pants. Those are for weekends only. The whole point is disguising your sweats as work pants. Also try to find pants with structure, nothing too flowy, in order to effectively hide your thunder.

Like the women’s options I previously talked about, these pants (above) are also from Zara. I find that Zara has a great selection for “more formal” sweatpants for both men and women.

Here are some ideas how you can make them office appropriate.

Button Up Shirt

A classic staple you already have in your closet. Depending on the hem you might want to try tucking or untucking them.

Blazer

You can’t really go wrong here. For years we have seen blazers go from day to night, from work to play in every combination imagined. It’s about time to try them out with your sweats layered over a t-shirt or collared shirt.

Sweater/Cardigan

A knitted sweater is another stylish option as long as you opt for something well-fitting. Ensure the knit isn't too chunky to prevent making your outfit look too casual.

Collared shirt

Like your pants, this can take you from sport to work to play. The key is finding one that fits your body. Not too baggy not too tight.

I’m not saying a pair of joggers is an alternative to a suit pant. But try swapping them in with your chinos or khakis. I went with safer pieces to keep everything looking crisp and clean, which I think is the easiest way to get away with these pants at work. But if I were you I would totally try playing with colors and textures to come up with something that more...YOU. Also, wear the shoes you normally wear to work, preferably somewhere in the middle of a formal loafer and a sneaker.

Good luck & play fearlessly!