12 Work-Ready Style Buys That Are the Comfort Equivalent of Leggings (2024)

In 2020, getting ready for work has become a weird phenomenon. Our usual office-friendly outfits have been replaced with more comfortable alternatives (looking at you, leggings), and now that all IRL meetings are taking place via Zoom, wearing pants at all has become completely optional. But if months of lounging around in sweats has left you yearning for something a bit more "business" than "casual," we've got you with some of the most comfortable clothes for work money can buy.

Below, we've rounded up some cute, cozy staples that you'll want to wear long after you return to the office. Rest assured, these staples are perfect for any work situation—even the ones that take place on your bed instead of at a desk.

1. Flora Dancia Katie Linen Dress, $17812 Work-Ready Style Buys That Are the Comfort Equivalent of Leggings (1)

First up: Straight from our favorite new loungewear brand, this linen dress is equally at home for a night spent at home on the couch as it is ready for a Zoom or IRL office meeting. Choose your own adventure, but either way, it's about as comfortable as it gets.

Shop now: Flora Dancia Katie Linen Dress, $178

2. Babaton Sable Button Up, $138

This oversized silk blouse will make you feel like you're still in your PJs but make youlook like you're ready to take on the next board meeting. Cue a thousand compliments from your colleagues.

Shop now: Babaton Sable Button Up, $138

3. Theory Wide Leg Pull-On Pant In Silk Georgette, $168

The benefit of investing in these pants? Not only will you want to wear them every single day you're working from home, but you'll also be able to wear them when it comes time to go back into the office, too. They're made with super-soft silk and have an elastic waistband and wide-leg fit for the perfect combination of comfort and style.

Shop now: Theory Wide Leg Pull-On Pant In Silk Georgette, $168

4. Athleta Skyline Pant, $89

Leave it to Athleta, the brand behind some of our favorite pairs of leggings, to have a pair of work pants that are just as comfortable as the worn-in sweats we've been wearing around the house since March. Plus, the paper bag-style waist will be just visible on your video calls, which means people will know for sure how cute you look.

Shop now: Athleta Skyline Pant, $89

5. James Perse Draped Cotton Jersey Dress, $235

12 Work-Ready Style Buys That Are the Comfort Equivalent of Leggings (6)

If you've ever tried the Outdoor Voices Exercise Dress, you know damn well that dresses can be just as easy to wear as workout clothes. This professional-looking pick will have you looking primed for the office, but its jersey fabric will leave you feeling like your entire body is wrapped in your favorite soft t-shirt.

Shop now: James Perse Draped Cotton Jersey Dress, $235

6. LAUNDRY BY SHELLI SEGAL Women's Reversible Matte Jersey Dress, $93

Get two dresses for the price of one with this reversible little number, which gives you the option of wearing a bright magenta print or flipping it inside out and rocking an LBD.

Shop now: LAUNDRY BY SHELLI SEGAL Women's Reversible Matte Jersey Dress, $93

7. Époque Évolution White Shirt, $148

12 Work-Ready Style Buys That Are the Comfort Equivalent of Leggings (8)

If you're looking for a classic white button-down that's structured yet breezy, consider this one the perfect pick. It's ultra-breathable to the point that it won't ever show sweat, which means you won't have to worry about pit stains during your next big Zoom presentation.

Shop now: Époque Évolution White Shirt, $148

8. J. Crew Going Out Blazer in Stretch Twill, $168

Since you probably haven't put on a blazer since the pre-quarantine days, this stretchy option will help you ease back into suiting life. Pair it with some full-blown suit pants—or even jeans and a t-shirt—and you'll look boardroom-ready from the waist up.

Shop now: J. Crew Going Out Blazer in Stretch Twill, $168

9. Local European Le Cargo Pant, $110

12 Work-Ready Style Buys That Are the Comfort Equivalent of Leggings (10)

Nothing says "comfort" quite like a pair of cargo pants, and this slouchy pick are as close as you can get to wearing sweatpants without havingactual sweat pants on.

Shop now: Local European Le Cargo Pant, $110

10. Cos Sleeveless Layered Top, $63

12 Work-Ready Style Buys That Are the Comfort Equivalent of Leggings (11)

You'll be the center of attention on your next Zoom call in this shimmery—yet work-appropriate—pick, which will make you feel extra fancy even on days when you aren't leaving the house.

Shop now: Cos Sleeveless Layered Top, $63

11. Norma Kamali Shirred Jersey Bodycon Skirt, $110

Leave it to designer Norma Kamali to craft a skirt that will have you swear you're wearing workout-wear every time you slip it on. Pair it with your favorite silky blouse or cozy sweater and get ready to want to curl up in your desk chair (or, ok, on your bed) all day long.

Shop now: Norma Kamali Shirred Jersey Bodycon Skirt, $110

12. Rec Room Open Back Dress, $118

Rec Room touts its products as "seasonless staples," and this dress is truly one you'll want to wear all year long. It has short sleeves and an open back for added comfort and breathability, and the

Shop now: Rec Room Open Back Dress, $118

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12 Work-Ready Style Buys That Are the Comfort Equivalent of Leggings (2024)

FAQs

What is the alternative to leggings for work? ›

8 Stylish Alternatives I'll Be Wearing Instead of Leggings This...
  • Loose Jeans. (Image credit: @smythsisters) ...
  • Tube Dresses. (Image credit: @giasinatra) ...
  • Knitted Trousers. (Image credit: @monikh) ...
  • Shorts and Tights. (Image credit: @camillecharriere) ...
  • Drawstring Trousers. ...
  • Joggers. ...
  • Maxi Skirts. ...
  • Relaxed Tailoring.
Feb 19, 2024

What pants are similar to leggings? ›

Super Skinny Jeans & Tapered Joggers are the most common style that have a legging like look but arent technically leggings. Usually they have a blend of spandex built into them but have a either a buckle, fly or draw string to keep the waist area in place. Skinny jeans can be worn to a bar or club without question.

What kind of leggings are appropriate for work? ›

Our expert advice? Wear leggings that are thick, tailored, and oozing with comfort. Steer clear of tight, see-through, holey, or thin material leggings. The golden rule to remember: leggings aren't pants, so if in doubt, choose caution over a fashion faux pas.

What is the guy equivalent of leggings? ›

But, if you're into wearing slim or skinny stuff, worry not, as men's gym leggings—also popularly known as meggings—have been a thing for a while now. In fact, men's compression pants are a way healthier solution for men in the long run, compared to tight jeans.

Are leggings too casual for work? ›

Dress codes vary among companies. Some allow women to wear leggings as part of business casual attire while others limit them to casual Fridays. Always review your office's dress code to ensure your outfit complies with the rules.

Can I wear leggings as pants to work? ›

Leggings are often thin compared to pants like jeans or slacks, which makes them slightly more questionable. Yet while leggings may not be considered part of the professional attire wardrobe, they can still be professional.

Which pants are most comfortable? ›

On a hot summer day, normal (above mid-thigh) shorts are quite comfortable. On cool days in the spring or fall, leggings are also very comfortable. For situations where leggings would be too casual, but jeans would be appropriate, a pair of stretchy skinny jeans are comfortable to wear.

What are comfy pants called? ›

Joggers & Sweatpants

When you're in the mood to relax, put on a pair of joggers or sweatpants. These casual, loose-fitting bottoms are constructed from supersoft and comfy materials like fleece, cotton or wool. Some styles feature loose leg openings while others have elastic at the ankles, so take your pick.

Can I still wear leggings in 2024? ›

Here's the Fail-Proof Way to Wear Them in 2024. Yes, it's true! Capri leggings are back. The resurgence has been growing for quite a while now, and the cropped length is poised for mega sartorial fame this spring.

What is worn under leggings? ›

The best underwear for leggings is a seamless g-string or thong for an invisible fit. When it comes to staying comfortable and feeling fresh, this comes down to your personal preference.

What pants are business casual? ›

Business casual is basically a dress code that involves wearing traditional business attire with a couple of relaxed tweaks here and there. For example, wearing khaki pants or slacks with a blouse/polo, but without a tie would be considered typically business casual.

What do girls think of guys wearing leggings? ›

Above all else, women think that men wearing leggings are sexy. High-performance compression fabric allows you to show off your body in the most flattering, form-fitting outfit possible. Women love to see a good-looking butt on display just as much as men.

Is it legal for men to wear leggings? ›

It is more than okay for guys to wear men's or women's leggings. They are to most comfortable and fashionable pants. They need to be more of a fashion trend.

Are leggings like joggers? ›

Joggers are baggy style pants whereas active leggings are form-fitting stretchy pants. Both offer high comfort and are super stylish and can be worn during exercise.

Are leggings still in style for work? ›

Because of changes in the work landscape and the rise of athleisure wear in our everyday closets, leggings have become an item we don't have to say goodbye to when we enter the office. For hybrid workers, there's no need to ditch the leggings, your office days can be just as comfy (and professional) as your WFH days.

Can you wear leggings in a professional setting? ›

The professional dress code for women at work can vary depending on the industry and company. However, in general, leggings are not considered acceptable professional attire, especially if they are paired with a dress shirt under a suit jacket and dress shoes without socks.

What's the difference between leggings and workout pants? ›

Key Differences Between Yoga Pants and Leggings

Yoga pants are designed for yoga and other forms of exercise. Leggings have a thin waistband, while yoga pants have a broad waistband which can often be folded over. Yoga pants are made with thicker, more opaque, and more comfortable materials than leggings.

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