My mantra over the past few years has been, “If I can’t be comfortable, I’m not going.” Sure, there are times and places when dressing up is fun, necessary even, but those times and places are few and far between. If my choices are sitting at home in a pair of leggings and no bra or going out to dinner with a full face of makeup and four-inch heels, it’s going to be the former every. single. time.
It wasn’t difficult for me, then, to come up with a list of clothes that definitely pass the “comfort” test while also earning high marks for style. Because it’s freaking 2022 — why should you have to choose anyway? I’ve got your “typical” comfort items like joggers and leggings (because those are life – amirite?), but I’ve also uncovered some comfy choices that’ll look like you made a lot of effort (even though you didn’t), like lightweight wrap tops, swingy dresses, wide leg pants and a to-die-for lace top (peep No. 12). Comfort and style? You can have both.
That’s A Wrap
If you want more coverage in your midsection, this casual wrap top is calling your name. I know a lot of women with a similar complaint and finding something that’s comfortable without looking dumpy is a challenge. This top features three wood buttons on the side, loose sleeves, and a length that just covers the hips that you won’t be tugging on all day.
A Wide Berth
Palazzo pants (or wide-leg pants if you’re less fancy) are great for hiding a multitude of sins, mostly because the fabric skims your legs and balances your shape. These have a pull-on closure and soft, stretchy material as well as two faux decorated back pockets for a slightly dressier look. Choose from a variety of patterns, colors, and sizes, and pair these with heels or flats.
Go To Pieces
Sometimes simple is best, which is exactly what this two-piece sleeveless outfit does well. A tank and coordinating jogger pants, this easy-peasy outfit is one you’ll reach for time and time again thanks to its soft, comfortable fabric and easy-to-style nature. Available in multiple solid options in sizes up to XXL, you can wear this alone with your favorite tennies or throw on a blazer and heels for effortless style.
Hot Under The Collar
I’ve reached the stage of life where I pretty much hate anything with buttons or a structured look but sometimes, it’s just necessary. This blouse has three-quarter sleeves, lightweight, skin-friendly fabric, and a curved hem you can wear tucked in or out. Throw it on with jeans for a casual evening out or pair it with dress pants for an easy office upgrade.
Jog My Memory
When I first clicked on this link, the first thing I saw was this, “Purchased other variations 3 times,” which should tell you two things: 1. I’m an Amazon addict and 2. They’re worth every penny of that surprisingly low price tag. These joggers have an elasticized waistband with adjustable drawstring and a banded ankle as well as pockets, which are the real MVP.
Golf Clap
If you’ve ever walked a golf course, you know it quite possibly might be the hottest place on earth. That’s why, if you’re looking for cool and comfortable wardrobe pieces, anything labeled “golf” is a safe bet. This polo shirt is stylish with its cutout hem detailing, button closures, sweat-wicking material, and UPF 50+ sun protection. Unlike tops made for men, this even has a figure-flattering curved waist design.
Skirt Around It
When it comes to comfort, does the word “skirt” come to mind? Probably not, because most of us associate skirts with being uncomfortable in church. This one, however, has great features including built-in mesh liner shorts, multiple pockets, and a split hem for a better range of motion. Sure, you can wear this while playing tennis, but you can also throw it on to head to the pick-up line or the grocery store.
Make Mine Maxi
While we’re on the subject of skirts, let me throw another at you that’s basically the antithesis of the last one. This fold-over long maxi skirt is the perfect blend of softness and stretch, is flattering to the body, and can easily be paired with a variety of T-shirts and tops. The high waist sits comfortably in place and you can even fold it over at varying stages to adjust the length to your preferences.
Tied Up In Knots
Solid tops are great wardrobe additions because not only can they be paired with leggings or jeans at a moment’s notice but they can be mixed and matched with other pieces in your closet. This casual top with twist knot detailing is going to become your new favorite shirt thanks to its casual styling and comfortable fit. I love the variety of colors here (and colorblock options, too!).
Dress Rehearsal
If skirts are comfortable and tank tops are comfortable, it stands to reason that a tank dress is going to be a home run … and it is. This loose-fitting rayon and spandex dress is soft, lightweight, and comfortable with an easy pull-on closure. I love dresses like this because you can add jewelry or a denim jacket and have a complete look.
Three’s A Crowd
Stay with me here: It’s Thanksgiving and you have a house full of people. Instead of padding out to the living room in your ratty bathrobe or nightgown, you’d look a lot more pulled together with this three-piece loungewear set. You’ll get shorts or pants (your choice), a cropped tank, and a long cardigan for a tidy and tonal look that scores big points in both the “style” and “comfort” categories.
Straight Laced
Lace is always in style but it’s usually tight and restricting and not at all comfortable. This crewneck lace crochet blouse is loose and flowy so you can go ahead and eat those tacos without guilt. It’s also lightweight with a keyhole button closure and looks just as great with a skirt as it does with jeans or leggings. Choose from nearly two dozen color and style options.
Short Story
Is it any wonder that “comFORT” and “short” rhyme? These casual drawstring shorts featured a lived-in, distressed look with wide, comfortable legs and an adjustable waist. The solid colors here will work well with so many things but I especially love the tie-dye, leopard, and camo options. You’ll love the relaxed fit and styling that needs only a T-shirt and flip-flops.
Pencil Pants Pusher
These high-waisted pencil pants have been all over my social media accounts for years, amassing 25,000 reviews and counting on Amazon. Comfy and casual, these have a cropped length, elastic on the back waist, a removable belt, and the most adorable bow knot at the ankles. There are so many color options, Amazon had to add a dropdown menu to accommodate them all.
Around The Color Block
I love a shirt that has just a bit of detail but is still plain enough not to be “too much.” Does that make sense? This color block top is essentially a T-shirt (comfort!) but with enough detail to make it slightly dressier (style!). Wear it to work, wear it on a date, wear it to the store … just wear it.
Pull Someone’s Leg-ging
If it looks like jeans and wears like jeans, it must be jeans, right? Except these are stylish, ultra-soft, high-waisted pants that look like jeans and feel like leggings. And, that’s the sweet spot, isn’t it? These have a pull-on closure (but don’t look like it) and enough softness and stretch to stay comfy from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Lounge Around
This is similar to that three-piece loungewear set we talked about a few products earlier but minus the cardigan because if it’s warm enough to wear a cropped tank and shorts, you probably don’t want a cardigan, too. This set has all the casual vibes with a subtle waffle weave knit. Throw on your favorite kicks and you’re ready to head out the door.
Grab A Cardi, B
I’m 100 percent a cardi-believer and I don’t care what time of year it is (contrary to the last part of the loungewear set above). This one is lightweight with a wide batwing sleeve and breathable crochet knitting that’ll be just enough when the temperatures start to dip in the evenings. For now, throw it on with a tank and shorts, and thank me later.
Tough As Leather
When I think of leather, I don’t think of anything soft … unless it’s Fossil leather (shout out to Fossil!), which is always like butter. But! These are faux leather leggings, which give you the look without the stiff feeling. Soft, contouring, with just a touch of compression to help you keep everything sucked in, these have a matte finish and a high waist for an incredible silhouette.
Deep Pockets
No list of comfortable clothing pieces is going to be complete without leggings and I mean good, old-fashioned leggings … that might also make your butt look better. (Hey, a girl can dream.) These leggings are slimming with a tummy control panel and, ahem, ruching on the tush. These leggings have more than 86,000 reviews … plus the one you’re going to add after snagging them.
Graphic Design
I love nothing more than a good graphic tee … and a cold brew … and a nap. O.K., O.K., I dig graphic tees but there are a few things I might appreciate more. This one, however, boasts that iconic Rolling Stones’ tongue and the band’s name. A good graphic tee paired with a denim jacket or blazer is solid gold.
Stick To Your Ribs
There’s something about a mock neck top that adds instant elegance, which this rib knit sweater from The Drop has in spades. Sleeveless and available in three colors, this is a simple top to pair with work pants that doesn’t even need jewelry. Throw on your favorite gold hoops and tell everyone to get out of your way because you’ve got your sassy pants sweater on.
Knot Today
T-shirt dress for the win! Nothing is easier to throw on, on challenging mornings than a T-shirt dress and this one with adorable twist-knot detailing is extra sweet. Soft, stretchy and breathable, the simple knot alone makes them more than your basic Walmart T-shirt dress. Add in a variety of colors and sizes and this is destined to become one of your new faves.
Cozy Camo
There are days when a sweatshirt is the only answer. But, don’t get sucked into that whole slouchy vibe with that sweatshirt you’ve had for 20 years that has old food and spit-up stains from your firstborn. This camo version is trendy and chic, not to mention comfortable. Reviewers call it “soft and cool material,” “adorable” and a “must-buy.”
Down To A Tee
Tees are better in threes, which is a saying I totally just made up but is completely applicable here because icyzone sells these workout tops in a pack of three. Unlike similar tee bundles, these have cool comfort technology to get you through a workout and come in packs of colors you’ll actually want to wear. The banded crew neckline and tagless label mean no itchiness.
Warm And Fuzzy
Think ahead with me, if you will, to a time in the not-so-distant future where you can see your breath when you go outside and you’re buying hot coffees at Starbucks instead of cold brew. This fuzzy fleece hoodie delivers on warmth, comfort, and style where regular sweatshirts and hoodies cannot, thanks to its trendy button neckline, ribbed cuffs and hem, side pockets, and functional hood.
Mad About Plaid
Plain dress pants are O.K., but dress pants with just a touch of a pattern are a whole mood. These are stretchy and comfortable and would look great paired with a button-down for work that you can switch out for a cute crop top for drinks. Dress these up or dress these down; just add them to your cart for a comfy work option.
A Weight Off Your Shoulders
If “subtly sexy” is your jam, you’re going to love this off-shoulder sweater that’s light enough that you can start wearing it pretty darn soon. This has a waffle knit fabric with both front and back V-neck styling, ribbed edges, and a loose fit that gives you that “I tried but not that hard.” One reviewer called it her “favorite lightweight sweater” and a “dupe for a Free People sweater.”
Overall Overhaul
Every time I think overalls are out, I see someone in a magazine wearing them or a celebrity sighting where they’re featured. You might as well give in and grab your own pair like this pair of wide-leg bib pants that feature lightweight fabric that’s not see-through. Available in sizes from small to 3X, these come in six great colors — mostly neutrals — for a variety of occasions.
That’s A Wrap
Buffalo plaid never goes out of style and I enjoy it in a variety of wardrobe pieces but this pashmina slash shawl slash wrap slash cape is in a league of its own. The open front design makes this versatile to throw on over anything and the fringe tassel adds a boho element. If you’re someone who hates coats (my hand is up), this is the perfect alternative.
I’ve Got The Blues
DENIM JACKETS ARE MY FAVORITE … and yes, I typed that in all caps on purpose to show you just how serious I am. This specific jacket is really high on my list, too, for a lot of reasons but mostly that frayed edge and the cropped styling. Reviewers agree that the material is thin and stretchy and one called it the “perfect thickness but lightweight.”
Blazer Of Glory
When you find a blazer that suits you (no pun intended), you’ve found a staple wardrobe piece you’ll reach for again and again. This casual, open-front blazer might just be “the one.” It has a basic lapel collar, a single front button, two functional flap pockets, and a seamless appeal whether you’re wearing jeans or a dress. It’s also fully lined, too, which is a rarity in a sub-$50 jacket.
By The Seat Of Your Pants
Full confession time: I own these pants in every color as of a week or so ago. I’ve been slowly building my collection because I enjoy them that much. They have a trendy 7/8 length that hits around the ankle and legitimately the softest, silkiest fabric ever. Despite that, they’re not thin which means you can easily wear them in all four seasons.
Dress Down
There are plenty of you out there for whom “stylish” means “sporty” and I’m 100 percent here for it. This golf and tennis dress has quick-dry fabric that’s lightweight and soft, and the design says, “I’m going to kick your tail on the court … and look good doing it.” The variety of colors here is second to none and with 14 to choose from, your wardrobe for the next two weeks is set.
Romp Around
What’s the No. 1 complaint about one-piece outfits? Those moments when you have to go to the bathroom and, let’s be honest, it’s not all that many times a day (unless you have bladder issues). Outside of that, it doesn’t get much easier when you’re dressing or packing for a trip than to throw one of these Terry fleece rompers in the mix. Try it for free with Prime’s “try before you buy” offer.
Cream Of The Crop
We’re nearing the end of our list and I haven’t touched on a single racerback crop top so I’m cranking it up a notch with a listing that includes four crops in one purchase, making each roughly $7. Sure, these are basic but we all need basic pieces to pair with other things. These are soft, with good elasticity, and will take you from the park to the doctor’s office.
It’s In Your Jeans
Call them short denim pants, call the jeans shorts, hey, call them “jorts,” for all I care, but these drawstring paper bag shorts are about to become the piece you reach for again and again. Less than $20, reviewers love these for the length, fringe, material, and fit. The best part is jeans shorts go with everything so you don’t have to be a style maven to rock them.