How should sweatpants fit?

SANVT Journal

One area where we’ve seen big changes is in what that we wear. Formal attire has taken a back seat as working from home has become the norm. While suits and shirts, and so on, have been set aside, clothes that keep you comfy are having a bit of a moment. Sweatpants (aka joggers) are one of these items that are now almost a wardrobe essential. What’s not to like? If you’re going to be spending more time at home then you might as well wear trousers that make you feel good.

Still, just because you’re going to be wearing sweatpants at home doesn’t mean they don’t have a place outside of your couch. Worn with a bit of know-how, sweatpants can be versatile and can look stylish or even a bit edgy.

To wear an item like sweatpants well though, you’ve got to know how they should fit. So without further ado, here’s our guide on how to wear sweatpants.

If you’d like to cut to the chase then here’s a summary of how sweatpants should fit:

  • The leg fit should be tapered but a little looser around the crotch and thighs.
  • It’s best to go for an elasticated waistband and leg openings.
  • Sweatpants should be comfy. Make sure they’re not too tight.
  • Choose a classic simple shade, like grey or navy, with minimal extra details.
  • Pay attention to the footwear. Sweatpants draw attention to your shoes.

So, what’s the perfect fit for sweatpants?

The first thing we recommend is that from the knee down, your sweatpants should be tapered but a little looser in the crotch and thighs. The edges of the pockets should not be visible in any case. Another important aspect is the opening of the sweatpants at the ankles. The opening should end just above the shoe, never pulled over it. It can be best to purchase pants that are elasticated at the bottom so you can pull them up a little to show off your shoes.

Around the waist, opt for an elastic waistband too. This helps with the fit and also overall comfort.

Sweatpants should be comfortable, above all. That’s the whole idea, so too tight should be avoided at all costs! You’re defeating the purpose if you’re wearing sweatpants that make you feel restricted.

What about the material and details?

The material is also an important part of getting sweatpants right. We feel a super soft cotton fabric can feel and look great. And when it comes to colours, sweatpants should be in classic, simple tones, like black, gray or navy. These shades are versatile and will work for all body shapes, as they won’t accentuate extra slim or bigger builts.

Pay attention to extra details like cordstrings or colored cuffs, etc. A minimalist style is what you should aim for – especially when combining sweatpants with other items in outfits. With fiddly details, your pants might not look like the typical baggy sweatpants but they can look less timeless and even a bit tacky. Less is more is a good rule.

Shoes are important…

Sweatpants can draw attention to what’s on your feet, so choosing the right footwear is the key to the ideal sweatpant look. Wear shoes that are compatible with the sweatpant style, like Converse or sneakers. A pair of loafers or brogues, for example, isn’t going to look any good – even if you’re a fashion innovator. 

Your chosen shoes should be clean as well as well-maintained and match the rest of the outfit. For sneaker fans, tighter-fitting sweatpants are especially popular as it allows you to draw attention to your latest pair. And there are some great new sustainable sneaker brands out there now to show off.

The perfect sweatpants from SANVT

That’s how sweatpants should fit and be styled.

If you’re looking for a new pair then consider SANVT’s perfect sweatpants. They’re high quality, minimalist, come in classic shades, and they’re fairly made in Portugal from the highest grade organic cotton. We’ve designed them with a stylish fit in mind, so they’re perfect for the sofa and also the streets. They’re also unisex and suit men or women.

And if you’ve already got a pair then we hope this post has been helpful at getting your sweatpant fit spot on.

By the way: Read this previous article in our blog to get five tips of how to find the best sweatpants material.

Photography by @adri.caloca