Sweatpants outside: how to wear them without looking lazy

Sweatpants are the comfiest thing you own. The problem is most people wear them like they just woke up. There's a better way.

The cut does the heavy lifting

Ditch the baggy, stretched-out pair from high school. Look for:

- Heavyweight cotton (350 gsm or more) – holds its shape and doesn't cling.

- Straight or slightly tapered leg, not a giant sack.

- Cuffed ankle, or a straight hem that stops just above your shoe.

Colours? Heather grey is the classic, but black, cream and olive look more expensive.

The 1 + 1 + 1 formula

Easiest rule there is: sweatpants + one "real" piece + clean shoes.

- Grey sweats + white tee + coach jacket or bomber.

- Black sweats + an oversized shirt worn open over a tee.

- Cream sweats + hoodie in the same tone = a matching set that looks intentional.

That "real" piece is the trick – it moves the outfit from gym floor to street.

Shoes and extras

Skip the 2015 running shoes. Go for retro sneakers, clean white low-tops or New Balance. Add a cap or a crossbody bag and you're done.

Bottom line

Your post-workout sweats and your city sweats can be the same pair – you just have to style them right. Grab the pieces at DOPESTORE, and if you actually want to sweat in them, check out GymHome.