13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (2024)

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Jessica Booth

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2020-03-28T16:44:00Z

13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (1)

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  • Sweatpants that are fitted can make your look appear more polished.
  • Adding jewelry or a nice coat can elevate your look.
  • Sweatpants that are silk or velvet can add a fancy twist to your outfit.
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Sweatpants may have once been something to wear to bed or to lounge around the house in, but that's no longer the case — and the runways and street style of celebrities like Gigi Hadid and Kylie Jenner are proof.

You can easily dress sweats up and make them look a lot more stylish than you ever thought they could be, creating an outfit you can rock just about anywhere.

Here are 13 stylish and easy ways to dress up sweatpants.

Choose sweatpants that are fitted rather than baggy.

13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (2)

TRF/STAR MAX/IPx 2018

If you're looking to dress up your look, the fit of your sweats can make a huge difference. Baggy sweats may be cozy, but they can be more difficult to dress up.

On the other hand, fitted pairs, like leggings or joggers, will be easier to style. Pick a pair that fits well and feels comfortable.

Pair them with a trendy coat or blazer.

13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (3)

KGC-146/STAR MAX/IPx

Instead of reaching for a sweatshirt when heading outside, wear your sweatpants with a blazer or coat that will immediately make them look more put together. Think: a belted trench, a leather jacket, or a more casual denim jacket.

The coat will give the sweats a more dressed-up feel than a sweatshirt might.

Take some time to style other parts of your look, like your hair.

13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (4)

frantic00/Shutterstock

When you're trying to dress up sweatpants, the rest of your look can make quite a difference. An outfit of sweats, sneakers, and a simple top may look more casual if your hair is in a messy bun or loose ponytail.

But if your hair is more styled, it can make the rest of your outfit look more dressed up and intentional.

Wear them with high heels instead of sneakers.

13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (5)

Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP

The quickest way to dress up a pair of sweats is to change up your shoes. Pumps or other types of heeled shoes will automatically elevate your look and, from there, you just have to pick a stylish top and the right accessories.

Choose ankle boots or nice sneakers if you don't want to wear heels.

13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (6)

Christopher Smith/Invision/AP

If you don't want to wear heels, you can still make your sweatpants look a bit fancier by wearing sneakers or boots.

Try sticking to a monochrome palette.

13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (7)

Dan Steinberg/Invision/AP

If you want to keep things simple, choose pieces that match for a monochromatic look.

An all-black look is always stylish and you can even pair gray pants with a gray top in a slightly different shade to keep your look simple and streamlined.

Add one glamorous piece to your overall look.

13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (8)

Aaron Davidson/Getty Images

A glam accessory or clothing item can instantly elevate your look, even if your outfit is fairly simple and casual. For example, walking around in sweats with a nice handbag on your shoulder could help you to create a more polished look overall.

Try wearing sweatpants that are made from a different fabric.

13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (9)

Christian Vierig / Getty

If you want to take your look to the next level, you can opt for a pair of sweatpants that are made of a fabric that looks more luxurious than cotton.

Velvet is a cozy choice for colder months and faux silk is a fun choice year-round.

Treat sweatpants like jeans and wear them with a patterned sweater or a button-down top.

13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (10)

John Shearer/Invision for PUMA/AP Images)

Almost anything can go with a pair of simple sweats, even if it seems like a strange pairing at first. If your goal is to dress up your sweatpants opt for a fitted patterned sweater or button-down shirt.

Add some jewelry to your look.

13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (11)

Getty/Ethan Miller

Lots of jewelry, or even just one standout piece, can instantly make your outfit seem a bit fancier. Layer a few necklaces on top of each other, or opt for a pair of statement earrings and a bunch of stacked rings.

You can also opt to wear one standout piece, like a big fringed necklace or chunky watch.

Pair your sweatpants with bright colors.

13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (12)

Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

A monochromatic look is trendy and cool, but bright colors can dress up your look just as much. Pair plain sweatpants with a sweater or top in a color that demands attention, like bright yellow or red.

Wear your sweats with lots of layers.

13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (13)

Vanni Bassetti/Getty Images

Adding carefully chosen layers can help your sweatpants-centric outfit seem more intentional overall. For example, pair a button-down shirt under a sweater or add a scarf and cardigan to your look.

When in doubt, wear black joggers.

13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (14)

Melodie Jeng/Getty

Black joggers are oftentimes the easiest sweatpants to dress up because, when styled correctly, they just look like a pair of trousers.

They can be worn to work, when you go out, or when you head to a party, and, in most cases, no one will even notice you're wearing sweats.

Joggers look great with sweaters or silky shirts tucked into them, plus a pair of heels or ankle boots will really kick the look up a notch. They can also be paired with cropped tops or sneakers.

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13 stylish ways to dress up sweatpants (2024)

FAQs

How do you make sweatpants look fancy? ›

Treat sweatpants like jeans and wear them with a patterned sweater or a button-down top. Almost anything can go with a pair of simple sweats, even if it seems like a strange pairing at first. If your goal is to dress up your sweatpants opt for a fitted patterned sweater or button-down shirt.

How do you wear sweatpants without looking like a slob? ›

Lightweight Layering

Opt for sweatpants in a classic neutral colourway (grey, navy or black) and team with a tonal, slim-cut T-shirt and a sporty windbreaker, bomber or coach jacket. As far as accessories go, keep it simple. Add a well-fitting beanie into the mix if it's cold out, or a luxe baseball cap if not.

How do you make sweatpants not look frumpy? ›

How do you avoid looking frumpy in joggers?
  1. Choose a flattering style. The most flattering joggers will be more tailored and not quite so baggy. ...
  2. Choose a high quality fabric. ...
  3. Go with fitted tops. ...
  4. Add some chic accessories.
Aug 3, 2020

How do you make sweatpants look dressy? ›

An easy, one-step-way to dress-up a sweat set is to throw on a wool coat—a crisp, neutral coat makes any outfit feel put together. Go a step further by belting your coat with a trendy belt bag, and grab a pair of sock booties with a pointed toe to elongate your leg.

How do you roll up baggy sweatpants? ›

Tuck your pants under a hair tie or a rubber band for a quick fix!

How do you style sweatpants and hoodies? ›

We think there is a general rule of thumb that you should follow for any sweatpants and hoodie outfit: choose both pieces in the same color and preferably from the same set. This gives the casual fashion pieces a monochrome look, which can then be complemented by accessories and other colors.

Why are GREY sweatpants a thing? ›

That they must be gray in order to be “gray sweatpants” likely has to do with the shadow effect: It's more difficult to see the lumps and bumps on a person's body when the person is wearing darker colors.

Why are GREY sweatpants a trend? ›

The Grey Sweatpants Challenge is simply a way for guys to show off their giant penises through the medium of grey sweatpants. This content is imported from Twitter. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

Why do schools not like sweatpants? ›

Sweatpants are comfortable and practical, but they're also very casual and relaxed. Wearing them to school sends the message that you're not taking your education seriously. Instead, students should dress in clothes that are more appropriate for a learning environment, such as khakis or dress pants.

How do you wear sweatpants over 50? ›

How to Style Joggers When You're Over 50
  1. Look for dressier fabrics.
  2. Wear a slim-fit style.
  3. Top your joggers with a Long Cardigan, Duster, Jacket, or Blazer.
  4. Make sure your overall look is finished.
  5. Don't forget to accessorize.
Sep 8, 2022

What not to wear at 70? ›

In your 70s, it's a good rule of thumb to avoid looking too prim, too girly, or preppy. However, it's the perfect time to experiment with arty styles like tailored sweater coats, wide-leg pants, unusual clutches, and colorful patterns.

How do you wear dressy joggers? ›

Do pair joggers with a long, sleek cardigan, fitted hoodie or structured denim jacket. Your choice of outerwear is important. Because the jogger silhouette is roomy, the style looks best with outerwear that adds definition and structure to your shape.

Can you make joggers dressy? ›

They make for perfect casual outfits when paired with a bodysuit or graphic tees. Or dress dress up joggers for a date night outfit with a lace cami outfit. Where them at their full length or as slouchy pants.

How do you make dressy look casual? ›

Dressy Casual

Dress: A shirt dress or a sweater dress can appear refined and relaxed at once. Blouse or button-down shirt: You can't go wrong with a crisp, classic top. Add a blazer to dress the look up a notch or two. Dark denim: Unfaded indigo or black jeans can make an outfit feel instantly more evening-appropriate.

How do you make sweatpants Fluffy? ›

It's So Fluffy: 7 Tips to Help Keep Your Sweatshirt Soft (Even...
  1. Use the Right Detergent. ...
  2. Remove Stains the Right Way. ...
  3. Don't Use Fabric Softener. ...
  4. Turn Your Sweatshirt Inside Out Before Washing. ...
  5. Launder Sweatshirts with Similar Items. ...
  6. Run an Extra Rinse Cycle. ...
  7. Skip the Dryer. ...
  8. The Bottom Line.
Oct 14, 2019

What to do with tight sweatpants? ›

Take out the sweatpants and do not wring them out. Instead, hang them dripping wet from a clothing line outside or drying rack inside. If you choose the drying rack, make sure you put down a towel to soak up the drippings. The weight of the water will pull on the fabric and stretch them out as they dry.

How do you pair black sweatpants? ›

Elevate The Rest Of Your Outfit

Be it with cozy sweaters, white sneakers, or a structured denim jacket and leather bag. Details like this are in direct contrast to the loungewear vibes sweatpants can usually give off and makes the whole outfit feel put together and intentional.

What compliments grey sweatpants? ›

Grey sweatpants are among the most popular of colours to choose from. The look great with a simple white tee (perhaps with a small logo) along with some white trainers to match. Alternative they look just as good with the same combo but in black.

What colors go with grey pants? ›

Greens like emerald, sage, lime and teal; reds such as crimson, scarlet and burgundy, purples like violet, lavender and periwinkle all match grey. Even gold or lemon can pair exceptionally well with dark grey pants. All shades of grey can also go well with pastels like turquoise, coral or rose pink.

How do you spice up a hoodie outfit? ›

Cover your hoodie with a bomber jacket, and finish the outfit with a pair of straight-leg jeans and white sneakers for a streetwear-inspired casual look. Pair the same outfit with a trench coat (for classic flair), a blazer (for office dress codes), a pea coat, or a denim jacket to switch it up.

What tops go best with sweatpants? ›

Sweatpants are the ultimate in casual wear, but to keep them from looking sloppy, try a crisp white t-shirt, a chunky cardigan, or an untucked oxford. For a low-key look, layer a flight jacket over a t-shirt and accessorize with a beanie and boots.

How can I be fashionable in the cold? ›

How to look stylish in cold winter? 5 easy tips
  1. START WITH THERMAL BASICS. If you want to look stylish and warm, then the quickest way to get there is to buy a pair of wool or thermal tights that you can wear underneath your jeans and pants. ...
  2. PICK THE RIGHT WINTER JACKET. ...
  3. PROTECT YOUR SHOES WITH WATER REPELLENT.

What are joggers vs sweatpants? ›

Difference between sweatpants and joggers

Sweatpants tend to be made of thicker fabric to keep your legs warm. Joggers, on the other hand, are typically made of thinner materials to provide breathability and keep the legs cool. In terms of fit, sweatpants are usually baggy, while joggers are form-fitting and tapered.

What are sweatpants designed for? ›

What are Sweatpants? Sweatpants are thick, loose-fitting and comfortable bottoms that are commonly used for both lounging and exercising in cold weather. Unlike joggers, they're made to encourage heat retention and sweating as opposed to leg cooling, and they often have a bootcut that's wider around the ankles.

Are sweatpants cool? ›

Yep, sweatpant outfits are practically eclipsing other wardrobe basics among the fashion set. They are equal parts comfortable and cool, so it's easy to see why they're sticking around in our day-to-day lives.

Are sweatpants still in style? ›

Sweatpants have served people well during periods of quarantine, but according to Sockel, joggers are an excellent way to upgrade the trend. The popular 1980s-inspired sweats have a wide thigh and a cinched ankle.

When did sweatpants become fashionable? ›

Sweatpants became commonplace at the Olympic Games by the late 1930s, and were seen on many athletes in the decades that followed. Adidas introduced the tracksuit that combined the sweatpants with a track top in 1964, which helped popularize athletic fashion.

How do girls wear grey sweatpants? ›

For a laid-back getup, wear a white v-neck sweater and grey sweatpants — these two pieces work perfectly together. Add a pair of white plimsolls and the whole ensemble will come together. Wear a blue denim jacket with grey sweatpants for an absolutely stylish ensemble that's easy to wear.

What is inappropriate clothing for school? ›

Schools typically ban T-shirts that display racist, sexist, obscene, or gang-related messages. Generally, clothing shouldn't be overly revealing, hats can't be worn in the classroom, and jewelry shouldn't be able to double as a weapon (heavy chains, for example).

Should sweatpants be baggy? ›

They should fit looser around the crotch and thighs. **The whole point of sweatpants is comfort, which means you want an easy fit in the pelvic zone. If you look in the mirror and see the outline of (1) the sweatpants' pockets against your thighs or (2) your junk, then the pants are definitely too tight. 3.

When should you throw away sweatpants? ›

7 Signs It's Time to Get Rid of Your Clothes
  1. It Has Stains, Holes, or a Smell.
  2. You No Longer Love It.
  3. It's From an Outdated Trend.
  4. It Hasn't Fit in a Year.
  5. You Haven't Worn It in a Year.
  6. It No Longer Fits Your Style.
  7. It's Uncomfortable.
Nov 13, 2020

Can you wear ankle boots with joggers? ›

One of our favorite ways to wear joggers is to pair them with ankle boots that give a more casual-stylish vibe. Pick heeled boots for a more sophisticated outfit or chunky boots for a grungy style. Make sure to tuck your joggers inside the ankle boots for a more polished look.

What color makes you look younger? ›

If you want to experiment with looking younger, start out with reds, pinks, and purples. They all have a youthful vibrancy to them that is widely recognized." Don't just take his word for it, though. Up ahead, see how the chicest over-40 celebrities are putting these youthful colors to the test.

What clothes make you look younger than your age? ›

14 Simple Tips To Dress And Look Younger Naturally
  1. Show off your best features. ...
  2. Wear well-fitting clothes. ...
  3. Go for colorful clothing. ...
  4. Add flashy layers. ...
  5. Simplify your outfits. ...
  6. Wear trendy clothing. ...
  7. Choose quality over quantity. ...
  8. Choose a girly fashion style.

What outfit do guys find most attractive? ›

20 Attractive Women Outfits That Guys Think Are Hot
  • Skinny jeans. Skinny jeans are trademarks of a sexy fashion style. ...
  • Red outfits. Wearing bold colors like red can improve your look instantly. ...
  • Mini-skirts. ...
  • Formal dresses. ...
  • Lounge shorts. ...
  • Nightgowns. ...
  • Denim jackets. ...
  • Leggings.

How to look sexier? ›

10 Tips That Will Make a Women Look Sexy to a Man
  1. Be Confident! ...
  2. Women look sexy when they make eye contact. ...
  3. Make-up. ...
  4. You look super sexy when you wear high heels. ...
  5. Humor, good attitude, smart talk. ...
  6. 6.Dress fashionably and trendy. ...
  7. Smile. ...
  8. Take care of the figure to be firm, always look good and healthy.

What outfits turn guys on? ›

The Top 16 Outfits Guys Find Most Attractive
  • Anything red.
  • Lace.
  • Sleeveless tops.
  • Off-the-shoulder tops.
  • Crop tops.
  • Bodycon clothes.
  • Leather jacket.
  • T-shirt and jeans.

Can you make sweatpants look professional? ›

When it comes to making sweats work at the office, what you wear them with is just as important as the pair itself. Dress them up with classic pumps or a pointy-toe flat, and keep your blouse basic but sharp. A tee might work at a relaxed office, but it's better to avoid any possibility of the look reading as sloppy.

Should I roll up my sweatpants? ›

Not only does rolling your sweatpants allow you to add extra clothes to your carry-on it can also help them not wrinkle. The block roll is the most effective roll you can do.

How often should you wash jeans? ›

"Denim is a thick fabric (unlike your average T-shirt) so you can get away with more wears between washes. We recommend washing after 10 or so wears—or whenever jeans smell stale or unpleasant.

Why do my sweatpants get fuzzy balls? ›

What Causes Pilling on Clothes? Everyday wear, fabric rubbing against itself and agitation from washing and drying can all cause fabric pilling. You may find more pills in the underarms of shirts, the inseam of pants and the center of bed sheets since these spots see the most wear and tear.

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