How to Take Your Loungewear from Cozy to Party-Ready

Here’s a guide on how to elevate four casual stay-at-home styles into sleek ensembles worthy of a night out.

By Lindsay Samson

Mar 25, 2021

Loungewear is the undisputed fashion comeback kid of the past year. Since the first lockdown began, working from home has become the new normal for many and accordingly, we’ve all been consistently slipping into something a bit more comfortable. And while some are eager to start getting dressed up again in the traditional sense, we’re of the opinion that, with a little considered accessory and footwear choices, you can still look supremely put together without having to let go of your comfy loungewear pieces. Read on to discover how to retain the coziness of snuggling up at home even when it's time to venture into the outside world and shop our elevated loungewear edit here.

1.

The Tracksuit

We can think of nothing easier to lounge around in than a tracksuit. And luckily for us, more and more designers and labels are putting their own spins on the loungewear staple and delivering sets that are as comfy as they are stylish. Case in point; Viviers’ high fashion, artisanal ombre styles. Available as a yellow and gray set, as well as a blue and brown version, comprising a boxy roll-neck top, a full-zip jacket, and drawstring pants, they’re perfect for a day spent working from your couch. But, with a few considered accessory choices, they’re also easily turned into a head-turning after-hours ensemble. Ditch your daytime sneakers or Birkenstocks for a chic, slip-on mule like Shekudo’s block-heel versions, add a gleaming piece of ear-candy like IAMISIGO'S I AM MOUNTAIN earrings and Khokho Collection's Ball Bag, et voilà; you’ve just elevated an inherently casual outfit into an exercise in laid back luxury.

2.

The Kimono

Kimonos are some of the most romantic loungewear. With their long sleeves, flowing form, and floor-skimming lengths they exude a sense of opulence and vacation-ready ease. And while you may be slightly hesitant to don them anywhere but beside the pool, we’d like to make the case for trying them as a chic throw over on a beautiful spring day, a look that’s actually fairly simple to get right. A slinky dress in a corresponding shade looks sensational beneath a vibrantly colored kimono; all that’s left to do is figure out your accessories. Reform Studio’s Mini Afro Basket Bags might be small, but with their classic bucket-style silhouette, they pack a serious punch, and their somewhat rustic style will gently temper the innate glamour of a piece like Awa Meitie’s hand woven kimono. Finish things off by stepping into Loza Maléombho’s Clear Fah Regal Sandal and add some understated polish with the Frond Drop earring by Ami Doshi Shah.

3.

The T-shirt

The T-Shirt: it’s the ultimate chill-out-mode essential, the one item we all have numerous versions of. They’re also—bonus!—one of the easiest items in your wardrobe to dress up. IAMISIGO’s Patched Front T-Shirt is the perfect neutral base upon which to build a seriously stylish ensemble. Look put-together in a pinch by tucking your tee into a pair of flowy, wide legged trousers (Viviers’ Samurai style is an artisanal, silky choice), then add a flatform sandal and gleaming hoop earrings. Pichulik’s Ouroboros gold-plated brass hoops are subtle choices albeit with a beaded twist, while the Loza Maléombho’s Uri or King K Sandal will keep things comfy and terrifically on-trend. If you’re looking to dial up the sophistication, try styling your T-Shirt with a tailored blazer and trouser set, then tie the look together with a timeless leather shoulder bag like one of Okapi’s Yemaja versions.

4.

The Leggings

Although black leggings are no longer really the streetwear staples they were in the early 2010s and are now usually relegated to gym sessions and cozy Sundays spent on the sofa there are still certain pairs, and methods of styling them, that can result in a pretty polished look. Rendered in a digitally created, intricate blue pattern, the Antique Baroque Leggings from Nigerian womenswear designer Lisa Folawiyo are one such style. And while we’re certainly not against pairing them with an oversized, boxy tee and slippers while bingeing your favorite TV show, they also make a major statement when paired with another power print. With its corresponding motifs, Folawiyo’s long-sleeved Antique Baroque High-Neck Top makes for the perfect bold companion to these printed leggings, and together the two separates take on the appearance of a form-fitting jumpsuit. But if body-con is not your thing, try the clashing stripes of Diarrablu’s Fatu Top, and let Patrick Mavros’ Sea Urchin Wire Cuff and Ndoro Graduated drop earrings serve as pared-back finishing touches