Who doesn’t enjoy wearing a pair of comfortable sweatpants? This closet staple was once referred to as something you wear to the gym or running basic errands. Today, sweatpants have evolved into a versatile, comfortable, and stylish addition to wardrobes for men (and women). This shift, of course, is music to the ears of guys that, at one point, may have been criticized for regularly wearing sweatpants. Now, men can prioritize comfort without compromising their style. 

The Right Fit Means Everything

If you’re going to rock sweatpants with style, you must ensure they fit. The “baggy clothes era” has passed, so wearing ill-fitting sweatpants isn’t ideal. Today’s fashion trends are centered around a more tailored look that flatters your body. Of course, if you’re throwing on a pair of sweatpants to head to the gym, you’ll want to ensure that they don’t restrict movement so you can perform an effective exercise.

Choose slim-fit sweatpants that will highlight your shape while allowing you to move around freely. They should also taper towards the ankle to prevent the risk of getting injured while working out. 

If you’re heading out to run errands, hang with friends, or complete other tasks, consider choosing a pair that fits you snuggly in the waist and thighs but tapers down near the ankles. This style provides a clean silhouette that gives off a polished appearance. Selecting neutral colors like navy, gray, black, and tan are also ideal for a fresh and intentional look. 

Sweatpants At The Gym

Let’s start with the most common activity where sweatpants are worn – at the gym. Though looking stylish and trendy may not be high on the priority list as you’re working out, you do want to ensure you prioritize functionality. Fortunately, it won’t be too hard to find a good pair of sweats to wear to the gym as there are many advancements in the athletic wear industry. 

Look for sweatpants made from moisture-wicking materials so you can remain cool and dry. You can pair them with a breathable, well-fitting t-shirt or tank top. As for footwear, it’s best to wear sneakers that offer arch and ankle support. If you’re the type of guy that enjoys being stylish at all times, you can opt for some shoes with a nice color wave to compliment and coordinate with your workout attire. You can even take things a step further and add some accessories such as a lightweight and durable smartwatch or fitness band so you can monitor your fitness metrics. Remember, the main objective when dressing for the gym is functionality, comfort, and safety. Find a balance between keeping it simple and looking your best. 

A Casual Outing

Now it’s time to take things beyond the gym. With the appropriate styling, you can make wearing sweatpants look great for a relaxed day at home, running errands, and even casual meet-ups. The secret boils down to how you pair your sweatpants. Depending on the time of year, you can pair your sweatpants with a fitted hoodie or  bomber jacket to elevate your style. Of course, if it’s hot outside, a novelty t-shirt or patterned tank top is ideal. When it comes to footwear, you can throw on some stylish athletic sneakers, designer sneakers, or casual loafers. 

Another trick to wearing sweatpants for daily activities or casual outings is layering. Imagine how trendy you’d look in a pair of gray sweatpants with a white cotton t-shirt, and a denim jacket? It gives off a balanced look that’s stylish yet casual. If you’re interested in taking it up a notch, you might consider some black sweatpants, a dark-colored turtleneck, and a tailored coat or jacket. It gives off an intentional and chic appearance, that makes them ideal for activities outside the gym. 

Flared Sweatpants: A Trendy Staple for Men

Believe it or not, flared sweatpants are making a comeback in the world of men’s fashion. Of course, it wouldn’t be trendy if there wasn’t a fresh new take on the traditional athletic staple. Flared sweatpants differ from fitted and tapered designs because they offer a looser fit around the ankles, bringing back a touch of nostalgia from the 70s. 

Keeping the rules above in mind, when purchasing flared sweatpants opt for styles that fit snugly around the waist and thighs but flares out just past your knees. Solid colors are always the ideal choice because they’re easier to pair with your existing wardrobe items. However, if you prefer a bit of boldness, feel free to purchase a pair with bright colors and patterns to suit your tastes. 

Pairing them with a fitted t-shirt helps you to maintain a balanced silhouette. Depending on the occasion or activity, you’ll want to throw on some sleek sneakers or boots. The idea behind the footwear choice is to ensure the hem of the pants grazes the top of the shoes without covering them completely. Keep your accessories minimalistic by wearing a timeless watch or a simple chain. 

Planning to head out at night? During the colder months, a lightweight turtleneck and a leather jacket will give you the eye-catching look you desire. It adds a level of sophistication while blending comfort and style that is easy to transition to various settings. 

If you’re a gentleman that loves wearing sweatpants, then you’ll love how easy it is to wear them for multiple occasions. Utilizing the above tips allows you to elevate your sweatpants style taking them from simple loungewear to a trendy staple item you’ll always want in your arsenal. 

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