(Fashion)

12 Pairs Of Sweatpants You Can Wear To Work (Yes, Seriously)

by Zoe Ward
Shutterstock

So you're quickly approaching the point in the season where you simply cannot be bothered to put together stylish ensembles for the office. The thought of crawling out of bed and commuting in the cold is nearly too much to bear — so slipping into suiting separates is basically an impossibility. But don't worry, because there's a sneaky solution to your sartorial problem: Stylish, sharply-tailored sweatpants you can wear to work. That's right, you can actually get away with wearing the world's comfiest clothing item to your nine-to-five.

Sweatpants seem to get a pretty bad rap. Considering it's the one piece of clothing that Karl Lagerfeld once deemed a sign of defeat, it makes sense if you tend to shirk the style in favor of more conventionally fashionable styles. But today's sweats make a seriously convincing argument for themselves, thanks to their more elevated silhouettes and high-style finishing touches. They're so chic in fact, you can wear them while you're on the clock.

Need some proof? Take a look at the super-tailored versions available, like Seoul-based Nuvo.10's Soft Track Pants at W Concept. Despite being cozy and stretchy, they look super stylish (and work-appropriate) thanks the charcoal gray color, front pleating, and a contrasting side stripe on both legs. Pair with your usual work blouses and outerwear so you still look sharp.

Or, go for a winter-white style with TWENTY MONTREAL's Sunnyside Trouser Sweatpants, $175 at Shopbop. They're cut like classic trousers with a tapered leg, and have an actual button-closure at the waist — so if anyone asks they definitely count as real pants. Keep your look monochromatic with a cozy white cashmere sweater and sleek booties.

Choosing a pair in a luxe material can also make the pants feel more office-appropriate. Markus Lupfer's Amery Floral Print Velvet Straight Leg Pants, down from $575 to $172.50 at Net-a-Porter, are a floral-patterned, silk-infused velvet pair ideal for wearing from work to after-hours. And Allude's Cashmere Ribbed Knit Sweatpants at Matchesfashion for $420, are made for nailing a monochromatic look like Hailey Baldwin. Top with a well-tailored coat to ensure an elegant finish.

Still need a little more convincing that you can pull the look off in front of your colleagues? Keep scrolling to shop some of the most stylish — and office-setting approved — sweats from some of your favorite shops across the web.