Don’t laugh. This was a valid reader question. Not just an attempt at self-justification re my desire to wear fancy PJs all weekend week.
Long story short, trackies have come a long, long way. Actually, let me re-phrase that. There are still hideous trackies out there (I’m talking to you there with the parachute pants on) but there is a growing segment of the clothing market dedicated to loungewear … that you’ll actually be happy to wear.
Stuff you can wear while lounging around that still looks acceptable … you know, should Brad Pitt knock on the door. Stuff you can acceptably wear on the school drop off without someone cottoning on to the fact that you have in fact worn said outfit for the past 12 hours. In bed.
And how’s this for a lounge wear justification day? On July 1 it’s Tracky Dack Day – a day to pull on your trackies and be loud and proud about it, supporting kids in hospitals.
Key styling tips
1. This look is all about the layers. It’s the layering that adds to the whole outfit. Start with a pant (legging, palazzo, yoga or harem style) and add a top (fitted or tunic/floaty), cardi and scarf.
2. Choose pieces in fabrics that “embrace” you – modal, bamboo, cashmere, viscose. You want to feel the love when wearing lounge wear. It’s about luxe fabrics that breathe as well as the comfort.
3. When it comes to footwear, it is acceptable to wear an ugg boot. But please do not wear it outside the house. I also love a slipper, as long as it’s not Nana-ish. And don’t tell a soul but I love my bed socks too! (Yes, I suffer from cold feet as soon as the temperature dips below 20 degrees. True story)
Shopping suggestions
1. The Little Scarf Shop Cashmere Scarf $145
2. Peter Alexander Frill Me Long Bed Socks $49.90
3. Deshabille Twighlight Cardi $139
4. Witchery Knit Zip Through Hoodie $99.95
5. Peter Alexander Leopard Scuff Slippers $35.90
6. MiMi FiRST Under My Feet Tights $59
7. Trenery Jersey Parka $149; Long-Sleeve T-Shirt $59.95; Ponti Panel Pant $89.95; Miya Leather Ballet $99
8. Intimo Roll Top Pant $129.50
9. Finders Keepers The Label About A Face Jersey Top @ Birdsnest $79.95
10. GTH Loungewear Bamboo Draw Cord Pants $69
11. Peter Alexander Red Bow Homeboot $109
12. SpencerLacy Jacquard Knit 3/4 Sleeve Spencer $59.95
So, ready for a weekend of lounging? I know I am. What’s your favourite way to lounge?
Comments 19
I wear a hoodie – often from Cotton On – and stylish pyjama pants – I love Sussan’s – when I am home in winter.
I have also been sore lately so out of the house (to go to supermarket etc) I’ve been wearing soft layers – striped cotton maxi dress with long sleeved tee underneath and my hooded parka and boots.
Author
Sussan’s do great pyjs. What fabrics work best for you Carly?
I wear cotton, stretch fabrics close to my body, and merino. I need to layer – longsleeved tees under dresses, cardis, stockings and leggings. Loose clothes close to my skin hurts.
Author
Thanks for letting me know, Carly. Helps me to better understand.
Hi Nikki – thanks for mentioning our loungewear – of course everyone will expect me to comment on loungewear but this is a personal note to say that how could you not love loungewear! The minute I come home I slip into some of our range and not only is it comfortable and cosy but I do feel good in it! I am a sporty type and do love my tracksuits over my exercise wear or out and about but not for home. I am not phased by a knock at the door or trip out the front door to get the papers or garbage bins as I feel good in what I am wearing……and yes you may even find me in my loungewear in the middle of the day if working from home or having a lazy sunday at home with the family! Have to agree with you NIkki that bed socks are a must also – ones with non slip soles are great on wooden floor boards. Treat your self to stylish loungewear and you won’t go back to the old tracky daks or grandpa style Pj’s!
Author
So true Lisa – look forward to talking with you more about your label.
Great tips! And who knew July 1 is Tracky Dack Day? I wish Americans called them that. Of course, I have Hubby to remind me. Love that Aussie-ism!
Author
I love it too – impossible to translate! Almost. My teenage son is heading to the US this week – so jealous. One day I’m coming to visit.
Ooh I love the Trenery pants, I’ll be off to find those next week!
My lounge wear consists of Qantas business class Morrissey PJs that my husband brings home for me from trips. I got to about 6 pairs before I told hubby enough already. Not to be worn out of the house, obviously.
Author
Oh, please ask him to get some for me next time. They sound perfect!
I have around six pairs of those too! My parents give them to me when they fly. They’re the best pyjama bottoms (though the tops aren’t much good). And I *may* have been known to very occasionally wear them out for a walk……
Author
Sounds perfectly acceptable to me!
Loungewear. Love it. For me it’s the winter equivalent of resortwear. Stylish, comfortable and versatile.
Have to say I have my ‘trackie dress’. It’s the jersey tunic I always fall back on when I want to feel comfortable, look half decent and don’t want to think. Spruced up with a splash of red lippie and away I go! Another top post Nikki. Have a great weekend!
Author
That’s so true Anita. Love my kaftans and maxis for summer. Cosy layers for winter.
I LOVE THIS POST. I need all of those clothes, especially the long frilly socks. I have a question too Ms Nikki: I live up here in Ugg boot weather. Do I have your permission to wear them in public on extra cold days?? XO
Author
Eden my friend you can wear uggs any time you like – you rock them like a Hollywood celeb!
Writing from the gym cafe where I’m about to change from home loungewear/tracky daks into gym tracky daks. Love this post as I wear loungewear all the time; one of the joys of the WAHM mum lifestyle. I’m usually in lots of Intimo, love the pants mind you they are a bit too forgiving when one’s put on a bit of weight. I especially love a long tunic with a short zipped fleece on top. So comfy.
And I never thought I’d have a comment to leave on your lovely blog as I’m so not-stylish! But loungewear I do know well!
Author
Loungewear is so my biggest wardrobe friend. Looks great AND makes you feel good.