Casual wear has come a long way from the days of basic sweats and plain t-shirts. Athleisure took over, blending fitness wear with everyday fashion, making it stylish enough for workouts, errands, or just lounging around. But lately, the trend has shifted again. The go-to off-duty look is no longer sleek joggers and cutout workout tops. Instead, sweatpants, bike shorts, and chunky dad sneakers are taking center stage.
So, can you actually make these simple fitness staples look stylish? Absolutely! Here’s how.
Sweatpants never really disappeared, but they did take a backseat to yoga pants and leggings for a while. Now, they’re making a comeback with a fresh twist. The latest versions are not just about comfort—they’re also surprisingly stylish and versatile.
Take the Lovers + Friends Saturn Sweatpants, for example. They have a relaxed vibe but aren’t just for lounging at home. The step hem adds a modern touch, making them easy to pair with a nicer pair of shoes. The slim leg and thicker fabric create a balanced look when worn with a fitted tank top.
Then there are the SHEIN Pearl Beading Heathered Knit Sweatpants, which completely redefine casual wear. The pearl details add a stylish edge, making these gray sweatpants far more interesting than your average loungewear.
Bike shorts first had their moment about 30 years ago—think back to the era of MC Hammer and cassette tapes. Back then, they were often paired with oversized t-shirts. Now, thanks to trendsetters like Kim Kardashian and Bella Hadid, they’re back in a big way. Kim wears them with everything from leather jackets to oversized sweatshirts, while Bella has even rocked a metallic pair for a night out.
If you’re unsure how to style them, keep it playful. Bike shorts don’t quite work with structured blazers, but they pair perfectly with relaxed tops. A fun example? Bright pink bike shorts with a peach-colored top for a bold, carefree look.
And then there are dad sneakers—those chunky, retro-style shoes that bring back memories of ‘80s and ‘90s TV dads. But don’t let their bulky appearance fool you. These thick-soled sneakers have a quirky charm and are surprisingly lightweight. They’re also incredibly versatile, working well with everything from cropped jeans to dresses and leggings.
For an effortlessly cool outfit, try pairing them with high-waisted jeans and a cropped t-shirt. The result? A laid-back, stylish look that’s both nostalgic and modern.