Men’s Loungewear: A 2021 Essential


More than ever, we are staying at home. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style for comfort in men’s loungewear. This trending style is ideal for hanging out at home and watching the game, but you can easily pivot to running out to the store for a refill on game time snacks. We promise you’ll want to swap out your pajama pants and tees for these updated and elevated at-home pieces.

Did we spark your interest? Read on to see what loungewear staples are on trend for the spring… 

Is Loungewear the Same as Pajamas?

Men’s loungewear combines the need for feeling comfortable at home with wanting to look your best no matter where you are. This trend focuses on soft fabrics and staple pieces like tees, joggers, henleys, knit shorts and lightweight layers for the perfect blend of comfort and style. Many ask if loungewear is the same as pajamas. Think of loungewear as clothes that work double dutythey offer an elevated feel with quality fabrics for sofa-to-street versatility. Sure, you can take a long afternoon siesta in your loungewear, but you’ll still want to keep your favorite pajama pants on hand for bedtime. Loungewear is intended for days at home but can also take you outdoors for quick errands, whereas pajamas are intended for sleeping.

Expert Styling Tip: Hang out at home with your favorite book in a pair of joggers with a basic long sleeve tee. If you have to head out in a pinch, layer a work jacket or shirt-jacket over and add a pair of casual sneakers. 

Men’s Loungewear: It’s All in the Details

Get a feel for fabrics, colors and prints to set your men’s loungewear apart from your favorite sleepwear. Indulge in this season’s trending colors and prints to add a modern aesthetic to your at-home essentials. 

Softness is the name of the game for loungewear—after all, loungewear is intended to keep you comfortable. Seek out soft fabrics like cotton, modal, textured knits and fleece as they are a sure bet for softness. Pay special attention to loungewear pieces that feature words like “brushed,” “vintage” and “washed” as they translate to a lived-in feel that is the cornerstone of loungewear. 

Opting for neutrals will ensure that your loungewear transcends the seasons for maximum wear. However, adding seasonal colors and prints will add variety to some of your loungewear staples and ensure that your closet always feels fresh and new. Unleash your personality in loungewear with an array of colors featuring light pinks and purples, bright yellow, dark green, dusty blues and olive greens. Needing a neutral refresh? This season’s trending neutrals feature warm white tones, toasted taupes and desert browns.

History always repeats itself, and on the fashion front, tie-dye is staging a 60s revival. When wearing a bold print like tie-dye, pair it with solids and neutral colors to allow the print to be the focal point of your outfit. Want to tone it down? Add a layering piece like a zip-up sweatshirt when lounging around or opt for a denim jacket when you are on the go to allow your tie-dye print to shine. 

What are Men’s Loungewear Pants?

Men’s loungewear pants, including joggers, sweatpants and also shorts, focus less on performance details and more on a soft-hand feel for ultimate comfort. Joggers have been a popular athleisure option that are crossing over to loungewear in lightweight fabrics for the spring. For an alternative loungewear bottom, go with a trusty pair of sweatpants. Sweatpants are the perfect option for the guy who isn’t a fan of the banded borders of joggers. Fit is important to achieve a refined look, so seek out sweatpants that offer a straight fit—they are the best blend of style and comfort. For those in warmer spring climates, seek out lounge shorts in soft cotton blends formulated to keep you cool and relaxed.

Expert Styling Tip: If there’s a little winter chill left in the air, reach for slim-fitting sweatpants, add a long sleeve henley and layer over a comfy vest. A beanie will keep you warm from head to toe while you are on the go.

What to Look for: Tees and Layers

Hang out in your favorite men’s loungewear tee at home and save your collared shirts for the office and nights out. Basic crew-neck and v-neck tees are wardrobe staples that pair precisely with joggers, sweatpants and lounge shorts. Heighten your apparel by wearing a henley long-sleeve knit. Long-sleeve shirts are perfect for wearing on their own or as lightweight layering options over your favorite tee. Speaking of layers, your trusty, worn-in flannel button-down can be worn unbuttoned and over a tee to add a dash of print to your loungewear look.

Spring weather can change in the blink of an eye, so keep cozy layers on hand to toss over your loungewear. Vintage fleece pullover sweatshirts and zip-up hoodies will wrap you in warmth both at home and on the go. Add a textural element to your loungewear by wearing a hooded sweater or a thermal pullover. Don’t forget a jacket or vest if the outdoors are calling your name—we are particularly loving shirt-jackets, utility jackets and lightweight puffer vests.

Expert Styling Tip: Interchange tees, joggers, shorts and a layering piece for the perfect at-home look. In warmer weather, opt for a breathable v-neck tee with some texture, a pair of comfy lounge shorts and slip-on sneakers when you have to run outside. 

How to Wear Men’s Loungewear Matching Sets

On days when you want your men’s loungewear look to be effortless, coordinating sets are a must-have. There is nothing easier to wear than a matching pair of joggers or sweatpants and hoodie. Add a tee and some sneakers to your jogger set, and you are good to go! If you are looking to change up a coordinating look, try going tonal by pairing a dark gray pair of pants with a light gray hoodie or fleece quarter-zip. 

Ready to grow your loungewear collection? Our style experts can lend a hand. Take your style quiz, order a Fix and ask for new loungewear options to relax in at home. Shipping and returns are free and no subscription is required.

Ready to upgrade your look with expert fashion advice?

Take your style quiz

Want more tips, trends & insider news? Follow @stitchfix on Instagram