Back in the office? Here’s how to make your loungewear work appropriate

During lockdown, many of us adopted comfy slippers and cosy loungewear as the new everyday norm. In fact, since the start of 2020, the term ‘loungewear’ has seen an average monthly search volume of 170k+ compared to 66k+ in 2019.

According to Google Trends, some UK cities have been embracing the casual look more than others, with Liverpool proving the Nation’s biggest loungewear lovers.

UK cities love for loungewear

Rank	City	Google Trends interest in ‘loungewear’(1/1/20 – 11/15/21)
1	Liverpool	100
2	Birmingham	81
3	Leeds	75
4	Sheffield	72
5	Glasgow	69
6	Wythenshawe	64
7	Manchester	57
8	Halesowen	56
9	London	47
10	Edinburgh	44

Some of us are set to work from home in our pyjamas for the foreseeable future, while others are getting ready to transition back to the office.

However, the rise in UK search volume for the term ‘casual workwear’ proves that those of us heading back to the office aren’t quite ready to ditch our comfy casual clothes just yet. 

UK search volume for the term ‘casual workwear’

So, if you’re heading back to the office but still want to enjoy your loungewear comforts, the fashion experts at Clarks have pulled together some top tips to keep you comfortable at the office whilst still looking smart.

Top tips for ‘office-ready’ loungewear

Tip 1: Swap heels for boots

It’s been close to two years since the world locked down and during that time we have swapped our formal office footwear for flat slippers and bare feet. In some cases, this newfound ‘foot freedom’ has actually caused our feet to expand slightly, meaning those old office shoes you used to wear all day may not be as comfortable as they once were. Fortunately, with winter fast approaching, you can ease your feet back into office life by switching to more supportive winter-proof boots. Try going for low-heeled styles that offer arch and ankle support for a more comfortable working day.

Tip 2: Pair oversized with fitted

Slouchy cardies, oversized t-shirts and wide-legged bottoms can all make an appearance at the office, just wear them with some fitted ‘pre-lockdown’ pieces. For example, a smart blazer can turn a comfy t-shirt and jogging bottom combo into an office-ready get-up in seconds. For another relaxing outfit, try pairing your favourite stretchy yoga pants with a smart tunic or an oversized shirt. As a general rule, mix and match your loungewear items with more ‘traditional’ office pieces for a comfortable but smart look.

Tip 3: Embrace bright colours

Pairing bold colours with your favourite loungewear can really add some office flair to your comfies. Try mixing muted jogging bottoms with a bright top for an eye-catching look, or switch it around and match bright bottoms with a casual white or grey t-shirt. Keep the look clean with some crisp, light trainers and a minimalist bag.

Tip 4: Go bold with accessories  

You might not consider wearing your fancy dress jewellery when chilling in your favourite tracksuit, but bold accessories can add a touch of formal luxury to casual items. Think chunky chains, stacked rings and bold, bright earrings to bring your loungewear look from the sofa to the boardroom. Added bling doesn’t just need to come from your jewellery box either, chain strap headbands or embellished shoes can also bring bold style to your cosy loungewear outfits.