The Best Loungewear for Cozying Up at Home
I haven't touched 75 percent of my wardrobe since March 2020. I kid you not when I say I can count the number of times I donned a button-down shirt on one hand. I'm lucky to be able to work from home, but it has made my attire entirely casual. My colleague Louryn Strampe must have taken note of my new wardrobe when she enlisted my help to test loungewear (how could I say no?). If you're going to wear sweatpants, hoodies, and tees every day, you may as well buy ones with supremely soft fabrics that make you feel great, right?
Louryn and I spent months testing loungewear, from hoodies to shoes to sweatpants, and even spoke to a textile expert to learn exactly what materials you may want to look at when you're shopping. These are our favorites.
It’s important to factor in cost-per-wear and durability. We love stores like H&M, Uniqlo, and American Eagle for cheap loungewear, but those $10 leggings likely won’t last long. Also, shopping for clothes online is tricky. If you’re unsure of your size, consult the retailer's size chart. You can find out your measurements using an inexpensive soft tape measure. Double-check return policies before placing your order, just in case something isn’t the right fit.
Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off). This includes unlimited access to WIRED.com and our print magazine (if you'd like). Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.
If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more. Please also consider subscribing to WIRED
Photograph: VuoriOur Favorite Sweatpants
Vuori Performance JoggerVuori's Performance Joggers have a dedicated fan base. When my colleague Jess Grey recommended them, seconded by senior reviewer Adrienne So, I decided to give them a shot. They were right.
It's difficult to pinpoint why these are my favorite sweatpants of all time. The fabric is breathable, stretchy, thin, and warm. It's also soft; I'd wear an entire wardrobe made of it if I could. The tapered, mid-rise fit of these is superior to other pants I've tried—the joggers manage to stay loose and comfortable throughout the leg while still hugging my curves. The drawstring and cuffs are great, too, keeping the pants close-fitting without cutting off my circulation (or my midsection if I'm mid-dinner).
The pockets are roomy but not bulky, and the black color is a true black, not some dusty semblance of it. If I could go anywhere, I'd wear these to the grocery store, on a casual date, or around CES, but until then, I'll settle for wearing them every other day around my house. These are like a certain pair of traveling jeans—despite Adrienne, Jess, and I all having very different body types, we all feel the same reverence for Vuori's joggers. —Louryn Strampe
89 percent recycled polyester, 11 percent elastane
Photograph: RhoneSemi-Professional Pants
Rhone Spar JoggerThe Spar Jogger are what I toss on when I go on a Zoom meeting or if I'm filming a video. They look more professional than sweatpants but are just as comfy, if not more. They're extremely soft and fit well, though make sure to tie up the drawstrings; one of mine is already stuck in the waistband.
The stretchiness means they're good for workouts or bike rides (if I ever stop lounging on the couch), and I found the moisture-wicking to continuously keep my legs nice and cool. The best part is how pristine they look all the time. They hardly pick up any lint or dog hair (unlike other sweatpants I tried), and they rarely show a crease. It's almost like they know they're going on camera. —Julian Chokkattu
28 percent nylon, 59 percent polyester, 13 percent spandex
Photograph: TentreeEco-Friendly Sweatpants
Tentree M TreeFleece Atlas SweatpantThis is one of the first purchases I made at the start of lockdown in March (priorities, right?), and they quickly became my go-to pair. The inner is so soft it feels like I'm floating on a flock of sheep. The fit is nice, though they could stand to be a tad longer for my 6'4" frame, and the ribbed cuffs keep them snug. The paper accents on the drawstrings are a nice touch, preventing them from getting stuck in the pants. Perhaps the best praise? My girlfriend wore (stole) my pair so often she ended up buying her own. It's made with the environment in mind too, consisting of sustainably sourced organic cotton, recycled polyester from plastic bottles, and Tencel lyocell, which is made from wood pulp. And for every item sold, Tentree plants 10 trees around the world. —Julian Chokkattu
55 percent organic cotton, 26 percent recycled polyester, 19 percent Tencel Lyocell
Photograph: ReformationAn Everyday Sweatshirt
Reformation Rio Classic SweatshirtThis sweatshirt is an enigma; it feels like I'm wearing my favorite blanket, but it looks like I'm put together. Unbeknownst to my colleagues, despite my business-casual appearance on Zoom, I'm actually basking in the comfiest thing I've worn since my first pair of schlubby sweatpants. The sweatshirt is soft, warm, and stretchy. The fit is relaxed enough that you can layer another shirt underneath, but the cuffs and neckline retain their shape over the course of the day. I really like the sleeve length too. If you're the kind of person who likes to partially cover your palms, these are the perfect length. The Rio Sweatshirt is similar but fits a bit looser than the Rio Classic recommended here; both are sustainably made.
Note: In 2020, employees accused both Reformation's CEO and company culture of racism, which resulted in a public backlash. You can read about the steps Reformation has taken since then here. —Louryn Strampe
45 percent Tencel modal, 26 percent recycled cotton, 26 percent organic cotton, 3 percent elastane
Photograph: OuterknownA Cozy Flannel
Outerknown Blanket ShirtYes, it is completely outrageous to buy a flannel at this price, when you’re supposed to be picking them up 5 for $20 at your local thrift store. But since I’m no longer shopping in person, I can’t test size or weight myself, and I got tired of acquiring cheap flannels by mail that pull or stretch in weird directions, come undone at the seams, or feel too thin and come in gross colors. Outerknown’s blanket shirt really does feel like a blanket. (Even if you're a woman, I suggest getting the men’s version, if you really like a blanket feeling.) It’s heavy enough to lie smoothly over multiple layers or under overalls, and soft enough to wear with only a tank top underneath as the weather gets warmer.
It has buttons made from the nuts of the tagua palm, so you don’t have to worry about contributing to microplastic waste when you wash it … er, once a month. —Adrienne So
100 percent organic cotton
Photograph: UniqloAffordable Sweats
Uniqlo Dry Stretch SweatpantsI've had these sweatpants for almost two years, and they still look excellent, with very little pilling, a great feat considering the price. The model I bought isn't exactly the same as this one—Uniqlo says it tightened the fit and created more space around the hips—but the pants use the exact same materials. They're very thin and aren't the softest, but they're comfy enough for lounging about. They look good and stretch well, so you can wear them for workouts, biking, or grocery shopping. The zippered pockets are handy for securing your phone when you leap from the couch to the door to pick up the delivery. —Julian Chokkattu
75 percent polyester, 25 percent cotton
Photograph: Public RecA Must-Have Henley
Public Rec Go-To HenleyI usually hate the way Henley's look on me, but this one from Public Rec has encouraged me to reconsider. Most of what I've tried before is usually too tight, but this one sits perfectly on my shoulders and doesn't cling. I also like how long it is (in my opinion, the longer the shirt the better). The pima cotton is really soft, but more impressive is how breathable it feels; it's almost as though someone is continuously blowing cool air on me. Best of all, it's still in great shape after several months. Public Rec sent me the Heather Silver Spoon color, but it's a bit drab. Try navy or burgundy. —Julian Chokkattu
69 percent pima cotton, 23 percent Tencel, 8 percent spandex
Photograph: PangaiaA Sustainable Sweatshirt
Pangaia Heavyweight Recycled Cotton HoodieThis bright hoodie isn't supremely soft, nor is it superbly flattering, but in a product category oversaturated with velvety fabrics and curve-hugging silhouettes, it still stands out. It's oversized and semi-stretchy, with a thick hood and structured wrist cuffs. The slouchy fit and roomy front pocket sort of make me feel like a bridge-dwelling goblin, but the styling is Gen Z-approved, and the hoodie is the perfect companion for long video game sessions—aka every day since March 2020. It keeps me warm, and the color has stayed steadfast through multiple washes, even when I blatantly disregard the washing instructions. The sizing is unisex, so consult this chart before ordering to ensure it fits the way you'd like.
Pangaia has an intensive focus on sustainability; the brand uses environmentally friendly dyes, recycled fabrics, biobased packaging, and other strategies to ensure that products are ethically produced. There's also a glossary of different terms to inform customer decisions. —Louryn Strampe
50 percent recycled cotton, 50 percent organic cotton
Photograph: MadewellA Soft T-Shirt
Madewell Garment-Dyed Allday Crewneck TeeIt took me a long time to figure out the type of T-shirt I like, but I've struck gold with Madewell. The Allday Crewneck Tee isn't tight anywhere, yet it's not baggy or too boxy-looking. It's wonderfully soft on the skin, and I wore it so much over the summer that I bought another in a different color. The ring-spun cotton it's made of is still in good shape after several months of wear.
100 percent cotton
★ Alternative Pick: I also really like the Classic Essential Tee ($70) from Tomorrows Laundry, though it's much pricier. It's made of 100 percent cotton, feels very soft on the skin, and I especially like that it's not too short. It comes in a range of colors. —Julian Chokkattu
Photograph: Public RecAn Everyday Hoodie
Public Rec Politan HoodieYou won't stop touching this hoodie from men's brand Public Rec. It's smoother than suede, and the moisture-wicking polyester is very stretchy, making it great for literally anything. I've worn it on bike rides, dog walks, Netflix binge-a-thons, and that single, solitary time I went jogging in September (don't judge). The V-neck opening is spacious, so you don't need to squeeze your head through, and the sleeves stay raised when you pull them up (how I usually wear anything long-sleeved). The kangaroo pouch is roomy—maybe a bit too roomy, but don't fret! There's a secret zipper pocket right next to it to safely store your phone or wallet. —Julian Chokkattu
87 percent polyester, 13 percent spandex
Photograph: Outdoor VoicesAn All-Season Hoodie
Outdoor Voices All Day HoodieThis hoodie is incredibly soft. The CloudKnit fabric is thin and stretchy, and it fits closely to your body without feeling constricting or stifling. I've worn it on cool summer nights, bitterly cold winter mornings, on long car rides, and to sleep. It's been fantastic at regulating my body temperature in all of those situations. The front pocket is roomy, and the thumb holes are a big plus. The only thing I don't love is the slightly cropped fit, since the hem tends to ride up on me. (This could be attributed to my specific measurements.) If you're hunting for a roomy, oversized hoodie, this isn't the one for you, but it is a great option for something more stylish than the average sweatshirt.
The coordinating All Day Sweatpants are also super comfortable, with deep pockets and a flattering fit. However, they run a bit long, so keep that in mind if you're short like I am. —Louryn Strampe
94 percent polyester, 6 percent spandex
Photograph: LululemonA Form-Fitting Hoodie
Lululemon Hooded Define JacketThis buttery-soft hip-length hoodie is made from Lululemon's proprietary Nulu fabric. It's snug—you may want to order a size or two up—but it doesn't feel too tight or constricting. It keeps its shape through multiple wears, and it doesn't get loose throughout the day. Despite the fabric being thin, the hoodie still keeps me warm, and it wicks away sweat efficiently enough that I've worn it while working out.
The little details make a big difference—I'm a big fan of the thumb holes, the hidden zipper pockets, and, of course, the Cuffins. Some of the reviews left on the product listing mention pilling, but I haven't experienced any loss of durability in my extensive testing. —Louryn Strampe
81 percent nylon, 19 percent Lycra elastane
Photograph: Colorful StandardA Pop of Color
Colorful Standard Organic HoodI veer toward colorful clothing—you wouldn't find a lot of grays and blacks in my wardrobe. If you're like me, then you'll love the dizzying array of hues available from Colorful Standard. There are a lot of options! I tried the organic hoodie in faded pink ($75), the organic T-shirt in stone blue ($35), and the organic sweatpants in burned yellow ($75), and the tones are all exactly as pictured. I ended up looking like a bowl of Fruit Loops, which might be why my partner got jealous and bought her own set.
All of these are made of cotton, and the inner fabric on the sweatpants and hoodie is brushed for additional pillowy-ness. All three have an anti-pilling coating as well, and after months of wear and washing, I barely see any imperfections. The fit is just right, though the sweatpants look gangly and aren't a pair I'd typically put on if I'm going outside. —Julian Chokkattu
100 percent organic cotton
Photograph: Public RecSleek, Stretchy Shorts
Public Rec Every Day ShortMy collection of at-home shorts used to consist of several old gym shorts … and that's about it. If the Every Day Short weren't $68 a pair, I'd replace every one of my old shorts with them. These are some seriously attractive shorts, and they come in a variety of colors to boot. The faux front fly gives them a sleek look, plus they're soft and stretchy! I also like the zippered pockets on the sides and two pouches on the back. —Julian Chokkattu
88 percent nylon, 12 percent spandex
Photograph: EverlaneA Great-Fitting Hoodie
Everlane The French Terry HoodieAnother one of my early quarantine buys, Everlane's hoodie is what I slip on whenever I walk my dog. It's stylish! And I often find myself leaving it on when I'm back typing at my desk. That's largely because it fits really well. It's not overly baggy in any area, and the ribbed bottom never bunches up to look puffy. The metal-capped drawcords are a nice touch. This hoodie has a 365-day guarantee, so if you find an issue within a year of purchase, you can get it replaced. I'm on month nine, and after many wash cycles, I have yet to spot an imperfection, instance of pilling, or a loose string.
You might want to note that Everlane did come under fire last year for firing part-time associates at the beginning of the pandemic with no warning.
Note: We tested the men's version of this hoodie. The women's version, unfortunately, isn't the same and doesn't have the same level of high-quality stitching and materials nor the 365-degree guarantee. —Julian Chokkattu
100 percent cotton
Photograph: The Mighty CompanyA Bright, Fun Sweatshirt
The Mighty Company Pink Rainbow SweatshirtFull disclosure: I'm a sucker for anything hyper-feminine, which is partially why I find the Mighty Company's loungewear collection so delightful. It's difficult to find loungewear that's both girly and of good quality, and this sweater checks both boxes. The contrasting cuffs stay fitted throughout the day, and the cropped hem looks great on every body. The colors have stayed true throughout testing, and the French terry is both comfortable and breathable. The fabric is well-suited to all climates, and I appreciate being able to lounge in cozy clothes that don't look frumpy.
I also love the Glitter Shorts—they stay put, don't feel too tight on my belly, and coordinate with my favorite face mask (made by the same company). —Louryn Strampe
100 percent cotton French terry
Photograph: Girlfriend CollectiveHonorable Mentions
Other Loungewear We LikeHere are a few more items we tested and like.
- Public Rec Go-To Crew for $54: This is similar in comfort and length to the Henley above. It's not too tight and has a cooling sensation thanks to its breathability. I just wish there were more color options. 69 percent pima cotton, 23 percent Tencel, 8 percent spandex.
- Feat BlanketBlend Hoodie for $118: This pullover hoodie has a wonderful cut; it's oversized but not too tight or too loose in any one area, and the neckline doesn't feel suffocating. The color selection is trendy. I also liked the big kangaroo pocket. Proprietary BlanketBlend fabric.
- Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Legging for $68: These are good for workouts, but they're comfortable enough to wear on lazy days. We recommend them in our Recycled Products Buying Guide. The colors are bright, and the fabric, while thin, is durable. 79 percent recycled polyester, 21 percent spandex.
- Recess Windows Crewneck for $60: Beverage company Recess makes different styles of these comfy crewneck sweatshirts. I'm fond of the Windows-inspired design—it has a neat '90s vibe, and the graphic design isn't too busy. The neckline stays put, the cuffs don't get warped, and the weight is perfect for lounging. 100 percent cotton.
- BraveHoods Yoga Tunic for $45: This tunic is a great length. I enthusiastically believe in the “leggings as pants” movement, but most comfortable tops aren't long enough to cover your rear. This one is. It's a little snug, so consider sizing up. The graphic detail is unobtrusive, and the oversize hood makes me feel like I'm in Assassin's Creed (in a good way). BraveHoods donates its clothing to kids with cancer and their siblings; for every item sold, another is donated. 100 percent cotton.
- Nadaam Cashmere Sweater for $75: This sweater is a good option for days where you want to feel comfortable without looking sloppy. Admittedly, I don't have enough firsthand experience with cashmere to wax poetic about how this compares to more expensive pieces. What I do know is that it's supremely soft, has a great hip-length fit, and keeps me warm without overheating me. Fair warning, though: It's a magnet for pet hair. 100 percent cashmere.
Photograph: BombasComfy Underclothes
Socks, Bras, and Other EssentialsThere's no point in donning loungewear if your skivvies aren't cozy too.
- Bombas All-Purpose Performance Socks for Men and Women ($16): These thick, comfortable socks fit snugly and keep your toes toasty while still remaining breathable. They provide just the right amount of cushioning, and they don't slip off or twist around. I've worn them while working out, but they perform well regardless of what you're doing. WIRED reviewers also like Bombas' recently launched underwear. 80 percent polyester, 20 percent cotton.
- Brabar Everyday Bra for $36: Finding a good, comfortable bra is overly complicated and frustrating. This one is supportive and affordable, and the size range is pretty inclusive. The straps stay put, and the removable pads don't add a weird shape. Figure out your size here. 92 percent nylon, 8 percent spandex.
- Lululemon In Alignment Bra for $68: While many are declaring 2020 to be the year of “the death of the bra,” I (Adrienne) still wear one. Lululemon is famous for its incredibly soft, wicking fabrics (I rub my face on them like a kitten), and the In Alignment is no exception. It has a simple design, with none of the complicated, floofy straps that many yoga bras seem to think are mandatory. It’s also a good compromise between being comfortable enough to wear all day and providing enough support. Mine fit true to size, according to the website. You can book a virtual fitting appointment if you’re not sure. 81 percent nylon, 19 percent elastane.
- Richer Poorer Classic Bralette for $32: This is another super-comfortable everyday bra. It's supportive and soft, but thin and unlined, so it's better suited for weekend lounging than family dinner. The adjustable straps stayed put on my shoulders, which run on the slimmer side, but I'd advise ordering a size up if your breast shape ever results in quad-boob. 48 percent modal, 48 percent cotton, 4 percent spandex.
- Skims Soft Lounge Plunge Bralette for $36: This bra isn't the most supportive or modest, but it is very comfortable. WIRED testers were even able to nap while wearing it. The fabric is soft, and the band is sturdy, making it a good pick for quarantine lounging. Note: While the band runs a bit tight, the straps are only partially adjustable, so you'll want to consult the size guide to find your best fit. 91 percent modal, 9 percent spandex.
- Tommy John Second Skin Underwear for Men and Women ($22 and up): The fabric these are made of is amazing. It's soft and cooling, and so thin that you don't feel like you're wearing anything. The styles stay put, too, so you won't have to deal with wedgies or awkward lines. 90 percent nonpilling micro modal, 10 percent spandex.
Photograph: Getty ImagesLoungewear Advice
What You Should Look forIf nothing caught your eye, here are tips to keep in mind when shopping for comfort. Amber Williams, a textile science lecturer at Utah State University, says fit, elasticity, color, and aesthetics are important, as these factors can really make an impact on how you feel wearing clothes, but you also want to make sure you're wearing fabric that regulates your body temperature.
Go for natural fibers.
Cotton regulates body temperature really well. It insulates and keeps you warm on cold days, and absorbs sweat to keep you cool in the summer. You can also look for fabrics that draw out body moisture if you often feel clammy. It's a process called wicking, and it speeds up the evaporation of body moisture. Fabrics like Tencel, lyocell, bamboo, and blended wool will wick moisture away. Merino wool is another good choice; Williams says it does all this and won't shrink when you wash it.
Look at the materials.
If the clothes you're looking at are made of polyester or nylon, see if they use Coolmax yarn, as it's known for its moisture-wicking capabilities. Many of these terms are trademarked fabrics (you'll likely see them on higher-priced items), but generic versions may include words like “moisture management” or “wicking,” which you can find on product descriptions online or on the clothing label if you're shopping in-store. For polyester, Williams says to see if it's infused with silver or some other antimicrobial finish. The fabric is known to hold onto body odor, and those finishes can help prevent that.
Follow any care labels.
The quality of yarn matters—cheaper clothes tend to use lower-quality yarn; they won't last as long, and they pill faster (the tiny balls you see on clothes after washing them a few times). A higher price doesn't always mean better-quality yarn. For expensive clothes with lots of patterns or colors, brands may use the same lower-quality yarns to keep the manufacturing cost down. The trick, according to Williams, is to wash whatever you buy the right way. Does the shirt's label say to hang dry? Do it! "If you just read your care labels, you can make that $20 shirt you're wearing in college last," she says.
