Master the art of off-duty dressing

After a year during which the global health crises transformed every aspect of modern life, it should come as no surprise that the way we dress has also been impacted. For many of us, loungewear has often been overlooked or ignored entirely; however, all that changed in 2020. With global lockdowns forcing many of us to spend more time at home than ever before and completely changing our 9-5 routines, the need to up our loungewear game suddenly came into sharp focus. So when it comes to feeling chic and cozy in 2021, there’s never been a more opportune time to perfect your off-duty look.

First things first, if you associate the term ‘loungewear’ with an assemblage of old sweats and tired knitwear, it’s time to think again. As designers across the board move away from faddish trends and embrace classic pieces guaranteed to last for seasons to come, we’ve seen some of the industry’s biggest power players debut elevated takes on simple everyday pieces. Take established lifestyle label Loro Piana, known for its world-class wools. A cozy turtleneck sweater or a set of chic sweats by this purveyor in timeless luxury would make a welcome addition to any woman’s wardrobe, whether you’re wfh or cuddling up on the couch with a good book.

Similarly polished yet practical is ‘king of cashmere’ Brunello Cucinello, specializing in elegant knitwear and classic everyday sweaters that are always worth investing in; while Nili Lotan’s collared pullovers are sumptuous and, paired with statement earrings, utterly Zoom-appropriate. For a contemporary take on the low-key luxe, try a tie-dye sweat set from Ninety Percent – the London-based brand with impeccable eco-credentials. Paired with box-fresh sneakers and a long-line coat, one of the label’s sweat sets makes for an effortless off-duty look. Elsewhere, cult brand RtA’s bustier top is as comfortable as it is cutting-edge.

Of course, the definition of loungewear inevitably changes from person to person, and there are plenty of refined options that toe the line between smart and casual. The renewed interest in this category has brought an influx of creative energy resulting in some truly desirable pieces. A woollen skirt-and-shirt set from emerging labels such as Arch4 and Nanushka, a favorite of fashion insiders, works just as well for scaled-back soirées and working from home as it does for a lazy day of lounging at home. King & Tuckfield’s timeless designs boast the same endless wearability. Founder Stacey Wood’s love of a 1950s style underlies each and every piece. You’re sure to have her second-skin cardigan and super-sized wide-leg pants on heavy rotation. If you’re looking for a piece to perk up your next Zoom call, Victoria Beckham’s striped lurex sweater is a failsafe choice. Pair yours with everything from louche tailoring to jeans and silk midi skirts for an insouciant after-dark look.

Ultimately, as our lives changed immeasurably last year, so too did our sartorial needs. And for 2021, loungewear will inevitably continue to expand, encompassing everything from your off-duty look to your 9-5 uniform, Which means it’s more important than ever to invest in beautiful pieces that are up to the challenge of keeping you cozy and chic.

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