Inside or out? The fine line between men’s loungewear and outerwear

For decades loungewear was something largely restricted to the bedroom or, as the name suggests, the lounge.

But recently, wearing pyjamas, sweatpants or even dressing gowns as outerwear has become a bonafide fashion trend. Think Ryan Gosling wearing a classic navy pyjama shirt on the Cannes red carpet, or A$AP Rocky in a matching floral robe and trouser set (a bold look, even by his standards).

When attempting this look, it’s important to draw a line between outerwear masquerading as loungewear, and the tired old PJs that should be reserved for you and only you (see the uproar created when two shoppers headed to the supermarket in their dressing gowns as proof).

If you want to look more Gosling-at-Cannes than shopper-in-aisle-five, pay attention to these simple tips.

High-end designers are finding inspiration in loungewear

When Kanye West’ launched his l Yeezy fashion label back in 2015, it was likened to “Jedi loungewear” by one keen-eyed observer thanks to its uniformly neutral hues and soft, oversized streetwear silhouettes. Three years later, the self-proclaimed genius continues to release ultra-comfortable loungewear-inspired to intergalactic levels of hype.

Hip-hop collective A$AP Mob are so fond of the “cosy” trend that they’ve named two albums after it. eMemberA$AP Ferg told Billboard: “You can be in a meeting with billionaires, but if you’re confident, you’re cosy.” The likes of Allesandro Michele and Miuccia Prada seem to agree, with both helping to popularise the PJ craze at Gucci and Prada respectively. However, there’s a difference between being cosy and turning up to a meeting in a pair of old slippers.

Men’s loungewear still has a place in the home 

Sure, it’s important to be comfortable in the workplace, but finding comfort at home is perhaps even more essential.

The crucial factor which separates the best from the rest is simply the quality and comfort of the material. Considering that loungewear will come in direct contact with your body, finding pieces made from a soft, breathable fabric is essential. If you want to treat yourself to a really good dressing gown, choose one made from cashmere or cotton, natural materials which will keep you snug.

Fashion-conscious loungers don’t have to settle for drab colours and should opt for loungewear that is as slick and stylish as it is comfortable. British upstart Sir Plus offers men’s dressing gowns made from printed fabrics luxury department store Liberty London, offering you the sort of psychedelic paisleys that would make the Mod Squad salute.

When it comes to pyjamas, as with dressing gowns, breathability is key, so avoid any synthetic materials. Stick to linens or cotton to ensure that if you do sleep in them, you won’t wake up sweaty and uncomfortable. Likewise, jogging bottoms and sweatshirts are ideal for the colder months, and the rising popularity of loungewear, both in and out of the home, has led to a far more fashionable range being made available.

So whether you want to join the trend by wearing it outdoors, or simply want to give yourself a luxury lazy day, men’s loungewear is having its moment. You should seize it… even if your Sundays don’t stretch further than the couch!

The editorial unit