The Loungewear Guide: Let's Be Comfy.

Before we dive into the details, let me set the record straight: I’m a relative newcomer to the world of “loungewear.” I don’t wear leggings as pants (ever) and the majority of items on this list have never seen the world outside of my apartment. This guide is truly a list of the clothes I deem as “ultra comfort” and wear predominantly for watching TV.

Special clothes just for watching TV? That sounds ridiculous (I can hear you thinking). However, if you’re a fellow pet-owner and said pet likes to chill on all of your favorite furniture and blankets and be as close to you as possible when said lounging is happening, you know what I’m talking about.

Pets with fur, shed. It’s a fuzzy fact that isn’t changing any time soon which is why I have “special” clothes for sitting on the couch. Our cat sheds (a lot) so I’m particularly careful about which clothes I choose to wear to hang out and subsequently get fuzzed (I also own many lint rollers).

On the plus side, this pet-hair situation, combined with quarantine and working from home for a long time, has allowed me to dive into the wide-world of loungewear. A world I didn’t quite realize was so vast, and comfy, until now.

So, without further ado, here is my unapologetic guide to loungewear AKA the comfiest clothes to wear while watching your favorite shows, eating dinner, or doing anything else while at home. PS: they’re all great for wearing while out and about, too. Who am I to judge?

New items just added! (as of October 2020).

Each item includes a direct link. This post is not sponsored.

Tops

I’ve worn all of these sweaters/sweatshirts/tops for tv-watching, errand-running, baking, and sitting around not doing much of anything! Yes, I think this is considered a collection. A collection of very comfy clothes.

Dudley Stephens Somerset Sweatshirt in Terry Fleece - This slightly-oversized, super-soft fleece is one of the best for time on the couch. I love the dropped shoulder and contrast-stitching details; it’s fun to feel stylish even when watching TV.

Dudley Stephens Park Slope Turtleneck in Terry Fleece - I’ll grab a Park Slope in terry fleece when I want to be a little warmer, thanks to the turtleneck, and still be ultra-comfortable. PS: this style is also a favorite for chilly morning walks (being active is important, too!). Honestly, the vello fleece fabric is great for lounging around too. It’s thicker, and therefore a bit warmer, which is great because we haven’t turned on the heat yet. ;)

J.Crew Pullover Hoodie in Cloud Fleece - The reviews for this piece were mixed due to the fit, but I wanted to add a basic black pullover to my comfy clothes options. I’m glad I ignored the reviews! This is the softest hoodie ever and I find the fit to be just fine. It’s not oversized, but not overly fitted either - I like the in-between! I’ve been reaching for this one almost daily now that the temps have (finally) gone below 60 at night.

MOTHER The Square Hoodie - I meant to include this one in the original list! I bought this back in May and it’s finally time to wear it all of the time. I adore the bright yellow color, the contrasting drawstrings, and the overall great fit. It’s not too fitted or too oversized, which makes it a pretty perfect sweatshirt.

Madewell Whisper Cotton V-neck Pocket Tee - Not in the mood for long-sleeves? No problem! I love this basic v-neck t-shirt made in a super-soft cotton. It’s a no-fuss, nothing-fancy shirt and it works just as well for watching TV on a weeknight as it does with my favorite jeans for a weekend excursion. The price is great, too.

MWL by Madewell - This is a brand-new collection of loungewear from Madewell. Made from sustainable fabrics at reasonable prices, I couldn’t help but order a few pieces. For research! FYI - right now there’s a 20% discount if you order any top and pant combo from this collection.

MWL Hoodie Sweatshirt - it’s so soft! I’m planning to wear this at home and out and about (grocery shopping). A fairly loose fit makes it perfect for layering. How do I stop myself from ordering the black one, too?

MWL Zip-front Mockneck Sweatshirt - I love the meadow green color (sold out, but white is available) and the zip-front detail. Another great style for running errands or doing nothing (or something) at home. Style runs big - I sized down.

MWL Ribbed Funnelneck Sweatshirt - I could not resist the funnelneck style. I’ll report back once I’ve worn it a few times! Description said “boxy fit” so I ordered one size smaller.

Sol Angeles Essential Pullover - I saw this being advertised by an influencer, loved the simple style, and ordered one that same day. It’s so soft! For a fairly standard sweatshirt I love the sleeve-detail and that it’s not oversized. This brand is based out of LA so I immediately feel that chill, West Coast vibe whenever I wear it.

Splendid Eco 100% Recycled Pullover - I’ve loved this CA-based brand for years and I always have my eye on their various collections of the softest clothes ever. Their new eco-conscious styles are superbly soft, cozy, and fit so well! I ordered this pullover during a “flash sale” and my biggest regret is not ordering a second color. I love the cropped fit, brushed-fleece fabric, and overall style. Not to mention it’s made from 100% recycled materials - fashion to feel good about. Yes, I ordered the matching pants; see below.

Tory Sport French Terry Chevron Hoodie - My adoration for Tory Burch’s activewear collection began with this sweatshirt. It’s very oversized, but so absurdly cozy and still so flattering. I love the cream color with navy chevron detail. It works with workout pants, leggings, or jeans. It’s just a really great piece.

And when all else fails, an old t-shirt from long ago works like a charm. ;)

Pants

Pretty sure jogging has never happened while I have been wearing any of these pairs of pants. However, I can confirm that they are the softest, best pants for relaxing at home. It’s up to you if you’d like to take them for a jog around the block.

J.Crew Dreamy Pajama Jogger - Order these pants! They are the comfiest pants for relaxing. Admittedly, they’re never on sale (why?), but I believe they are totally worth it. I got a pair in black last year and was so overwhelmed by their “comfy factor” I had to order the striped ones as well. They’re 100% cotton so they do shrink in length ever-so-slightly in the washer/dryer, but for my five-foot-tall self, that made them pretty much ideal. Update: I recently ordered two more pairs because they somehow got included in J.Crew’s recent sale. The price was ridiculous - I couldn’t resist

Vuori Performance Jogger - I saw ads for this brand over and over for months so I eventually caved and ordered one of their most-popular products. Deemed “the most comfortable pants you’ll ever own,” I joyfully proclaim this to be true. Wow! They are ridiculously soft, cozy, and just so good for lounging around watching your series of choice. Size down for a more-fitted look; they’re also very stretchy. I haven’t washed mine yet, but I’ll follow the tag’s instructions. For the record, they are a performance fabric which means you could wear them for a workout, but I’ve been wearing them for the walk to the kitchen. ;)

LuluLemon Align Jogger 28’’ - Yes, I think these may be made for yoga, but I couldn’t resist buying them last year as an extra pair of comfy pants that can double as workout wear as needed. These fitted joggers are almost full-length on me, but would be more of a capri-length on taller folks. I love that they are seriously soft, appropriately stretchy, and have pockets. Of course, I have yet to wear them for exercise, but I’m glad to know it’s an option. Just in case. ;)

Splendid Eco 100% Recycled Jogger - These are the matching pants to the pullover listed above. They are made from the same soft, recycled fabric and are the coziest for cold nights. They are thicker than other joggers I’ve been wearing, but that just means they’re extra-warm for the winter nights to come. I do think they are a little long on me, but since I’m wearing them to watch TV on the couch, it’s barely an issue. ;)

Shoes

I’m not a big fan of walking around my home without shoes on (I know), especially when it’s cold out, so here’s what I slip on when I’m making my way to the kitchen for chocolate chips or a glass of water. Don’t forget to hydrate!

L.L. Bean Daybreak Scuffs - Fleece-lined slippers with an outdoor-approved sole make these the most functional slippers I’ve ever owned. They were a holiday gift several years ago and they’ve stood the test of time and constant wear through the winter. They’re soft, cozy, and always remind me to slow down and relax. You don’t have to tell me twice!

Jenni Kayne Suede Moc Clog - This hardy pair of clogs is leather-lined and have a cork sole, which makes them an indoor/outdoor option. They’re comfy, casual, and chic which is something not always attainable for a “moc clog,” but of course this brand pulls it off (California-cool on the East Coast? Yes, please.). The only issue is that since they’re so comfy I’ve already got my eye on another color. Update: I caved and ordered the suede moc clog with shearling lining. They are the softest! I plan to wear them all through the winter - and outside - thanks to the outside-appropriate sole.

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed - I wear this classic style throughout the summer months, but when it’s too cold for sandals outside I find myself slipping these on to hang around the house. If I’m not in the mood for socks and don’t feel the need for a warmer shoe, then Birkenstocks-at-home will always be a great option for me.

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Do you have any recommendations that I may have missed? The world of loungewear is far greater than my list above. Let’s share the wealth and name your favorite comfy clothes in the comments below. :)

Enjoy!

Mollie

Seeking more style? Come follow along @StyledbyMollieD on Instagram for casual, everyday outfits and style inspiration.