Let’s be real — there isn’t a time we don’t want to be comfy.
But sometimes, your tees and beaten-up shorts aren’t going to cut it. Neither, are your pyjamas. Fortunately, that’s where the best women’s loungewear sets and separates come in.
Whether you’re looking for something new and put-together to run errands in — or just need a comfy outfit to wear while you binge your favourite Hulu series or head to the airport — the New York Post team chose their favourite cosy picks from lululemon, Calvin Klein, Spanx and obviously, Amazon.
Our top picks
Looking for cosy leggings, a cloudlike jumper or an entire set to make yourself feel and look chic? We’ve got you covered. Our team have tested a fleet of comfy clothes for every occasion.
Pros:
- Available in five different sizes
- Earned a 4.3-star rating on Amazon
- One of Oprah’s ‘Favourite Things’ in 2020
Cons:
- None that we’ve found, which is why they’ve earned our top spot!
Joggers, especially buttery soft ones from Cozy Earth, are great for lounging in. Featuring ultra-soft brushed fabric, they’re exactly what we want to pad around the house in on lazy Sundays, and can be kept on if we need to do a quick run to the store. If bamboo isn’t your favourite material, they’re also available in cashmere, modal and rib-knit. No wonder they were one of Oprah’s favourite things in 2022.
Expert Note: “The Cozy Earth Bamboo Joggers are some of my favorite [sic] bottoms to wear,” shared Victoria McDonnell, the New York Post’s commerce and content strategy reporter. “Not only are they buttery soft but everyone in my family is obsessed with the material; they always want to steal it out of my closet! When I’m lounging on the couch watching Netflix or running around the house cleaning, these are the bottoms I reach for. Oh, and everything else from Cozy Earth — bamboo sheets included — are worth the investment.”
Size: XS-XL | Colour options: 1 | Material: 62% premium viscose from bamboo, 28% acrylic, 10% spandex
Pros:
- Can be layered with other items
- Soft and stretchy
- Designed to contour to your natural shape
Cons:
- May feel too tight for those who prefer a relaxed fit
Whether you’re looking for something cute and comfy to wear around the house or simply need something to run errands in, this Lululemon loungewear top has a variety of applications. It’s made in breathable fabric with a four-way stretch, and we like it with jeans, leggings — you name it.
Customers are saying: “This shirt is so soft, stretchy and just overall comfortable! I went a size down, knowing it’s stretchy just so it wouldn’t be as loose on me. A perfect everyday top for jeans or leggings.”
Size: 4-18 | Colour options: 4 | Material: 94% lenzing modal, 6% elastane
Pros:
- Ribbed texture
- Pants available in six colours
Cons:
- Hoodie only available in four colours
- We wish they were sold together
For days you’re not downward dogging, slip on the Muse Sweatpant and matching zip-up hoodie from Alo Yoga. Both are made with soft, wide-ribbed material that feels plush and cosy against the skin. Wear while you binge watch your favourite show or dash to the Duane Reade for snacks. Both are available in multiple colours and have hundreds of favourable reviews. Who knows? Maybe you’ll be adding your own before you know it.
Expert’s Note: “These pants feel as good as they look!” said former New York Post Senior Commerce Editor Camryn La Sala. “The heavy but breathable fabric is what makes them my go-to sweats all year round. I love the high-rise waistband and ankle cuffs for a jogger-style silhouette.”
Size: XXS-L | Colour options: 4-6 | Material: 74% polyester, 21% rayon, 5% spandex
SWEATPANTS AT ALO FOR $110 (DOWN FROM $158)
HOODIE AT ALO FOR $110 (DOWN FROM $158)
Pros:
- Fair price
- Great for lounge or sleep
- Breathable and soft
Cons:
- May shrink in the washing machine (recommend air drying)
“I’m obsessed with the relaxed utilitarian vibe, and the Calvin Klein Cotton Poplin Shorts hits that right on the money,” McDonnell shared. “They’re breathable, adorable and ideal for lounge or sleep. Made in a supremely soft material, they’re a great addition to your loungewear drawer,” she added. “From experience, I recommend letting these pieces air dry and not tossing them in your dryer. It doesn’t dramatically shrink, but I’ve had to give the set some stretch after tossing it in once.”
Size: XS-L | Colour options: 3 | Material: 100% cotton
AT THE ICONIC FOR $41.97 (DOWN FROM $69.95)
Pros:
- Jumper available in five colours
- Light but warm material
- Four-way stretch
Cons:
- Pants only in four colours
You can’t go wrong with one of Oprah’s favourite things, especially when it comes to this loungewear from Spanx. Made with light, four-way stretching fabric, you’ll love how soft and flexible the material is. Available in a variety of colours, they have to be purchased separately, but both are so flattering together, we’re willing to bet you won’t mind.
Expert’s Note: New York Post Deputy Editor, Holly J. Coley, has been a longtime fan of the Spanx brand.
“I’m not a loungewear girlie, but I do like to be snatched at all times and Spanx is the brand to own if you want that plus comfort,” she shared.
Size: XS-XL | Colour options: 4-5 | Material: 47% tencel modal, 46% polyester, 7% elastane
Pros:
- Sizes up to XXL
- Available in six colours
- Great for running errands, light workouts, as well as lounging
- Stellar reviews on Amazon
Cons:
- None that we’ve found, thus far
This loungewear set comes in a variety of sizes and colours and is super comfortable. Made of a poly-viscose blend with a touch of spandex, it’s lightweight and relaxed without being too baggy. The pants have pockets to store a lip balm or phone in, and more than 11,000 customers from Amazon have given it a five-star rating.
Customers are saying: “This is perfect loungewear for home. I think you could wear this out on errands and what not, but I’ll be keeping it for home only. I don’t feel like anyone really mentioned it but the shirt is a dropped shoulder style long sleeve. I think this adds to how flowy the top feels without making you look shapeless.”
Size: S-XXL | Colour options: 6 | Material: 65% polyester, 30% viscose, 5% elastane
Pros:
- High-end look
- Oversized top pairs well with other items
- Comes in 17 colours
Cons:
- We’re not crazy that it’s made with acrylic but it’s still soft
If you can’t tell by some of our picks, we love a slouchy loungewear set. This one, specifically, has our adoration for its soft knit fabrication. It almost has a long John texture, which makes it a bit more interesting, and we’re dying over the shirt’s oversized buttons.
Customers are saying: “Colors [sic] are exactly as depicted. The elastic band on the pants sit snug, but it’s [still] a lovely casual at-home piece. It’s thick and keeps you warm.”
Size: XS-XXL | Colour options: 17 | Material: 55% acrylic, 45% cotton
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between pyjamas and loungewear?
This is a great question because women’s pyjamas and loungewear do have a lot in common. They’re both comfortable, perfect for naps, as well as lazy days around the house.
Similarities aside, they’re not the same. Here are a few of their differences:
Purpose: Although they’re both comfy, pyjamas are designed for sleep, while loungewear is made to be worn outside. Because people benefit from cooler environments when bedtime rolls around, many pyjamas are made with temperature regulating materials, such as silk or bamboo. In contrast, loungewear fabric tends to be thicker and more protective against the elements.
Style: Fashion-wise, loungewear is very versatile, coming in the form of joggers, oversized shirts, leggings, hoodies and shorts. Although pyjamas can be versatile too, most have the same style prototype: a matching bottom and top with buttons, collar — you get the picture. They also tend to be lighter than loungewear pieces.
Material: In comparison to pyjamas, loungewear can be made from a wider range of materials because they’re meant for the outdoors. Heavier fibres, such as fleece or knit blends are just as common as sets made from 100% cotton.
Pyjamas are usually made from lighter materials that are breathable, such as cotton, silk or satin. While there are exceptions, like fleece pyjamas, they still wouldn’t have the design details to make them appropriate for outside. Hoodies, sleeves with thumbholes and similar features are common in loungewear, making it easier to transition from your couch to the local bodega without much fuss. Can you nap in them? Sure, but they’re truly meant to bring the comfort of PJs with a little more protection.
Are lounge sets still in style?
Loungewear has been around since the 1940s, but it stepped back into the spotlight in 2020 when many of us took a more … relaxed approach to our appearance.
The cool thing about the loungewear sets of today is that they’re fairly easy to dress up. This means that they cannot only be enjoyed when relaxing at home but going out.
How to style loungewear
- Be intentional with your footwear: The quickest way to vamp up a loungewear set is with your shoes. Pairing strappy heels with tapered or jogger-style lounge pants not only streamlines the entire look, but gives a more sophisticated feel to the overall ensemble. Alternatively, chunky sneakers or platform boots can edge up the look of your loungewear.
- Add a blazer: A jacket instantly takes loungewear up a notch. Choose one that balances the proportions of your chosen loungewear set. For example, if your pants are extra baggy, a more tailored jacket will help to offset them. Similarly, if your pants are more fitted, an oversized blazer will add a more relaxed but still put together element to the outfit.
- Accessorise: If you can’t be bothered with the above, you can still jazz up your set with jewellery. A chunky pair of gold hoops or necklace can neutralise the casualness loungewear can have. It’s also an easy way to add some sparkle or a focal point to your look, especially if it’s monochrome.
This article originally appeared on New York Post and was reproduced with permission.
