Im a Mom Who Works in Fashion—These Are the Best Loungewear Brands

Tessa Faye O’Connell is a contributor known for her work at various fashion houses, specializing in media and public relations, currently working at Coach as its global PR director. She’s a mom of two, working to expand her influence in the fashion space through styling while also just making it out the door on time.

My true passion is loungewear. I know I’ve been acting cool with these work outfits, but where I thrive first and foremost is comfortwear. I’m lucky enough to be able to stay home a day or two versus always commuting in, which has allowed me to say it’s okay to have a plethora of sweat outfits and/or activewear that makes me feel elevated but good. Even at home, if you’re in your very worn T-shirt and joggers (I know you know the ones I’m talking about), you do feel less productive sitting at your desk than if you spruce it up a little. The best part about some of these pieces? They translate perfectly into chasing after your kids after hours or on the weekends. Track pants for sports class, a sweat suit for travel, silk pants for birthday parties, and workoutwear bouncing between your own stuff plus play dates—these pieces always have a reason.

These brands are my go-tos that I can always count on to feel elevated and comfortable no matter the location. I gravitate toward gray and black, basic colors, but most of these brands offer a variety of shades that fit into what is your best color and vibe.

The Great.

All of The Great’s loungewear options come in basic colorways and new spring patterns every season. The brand has ones that are wide crop or the classic sweatpant. Its sweatshirts look good with jeans as well, so it’s a win-win, and all its T-shirts are beyond comfortable.

Éterne

I love this brand; I love its basics. I bought the cropped sweatshirt and switch around with its wide-leg and boyfriend sweatpants pending the mood. Disclaimer: I do try to invest in comfort pieces that not only wear well but also wash well and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion and paired with other items in my closet. I’ve noticed it makes a difference in the long-term, and I find myself being able to wear them for years rather than a few times.

Donni

This brand has amassed a cult following, and it’s easy to understand why once you start collecting its pieces from each drop. Thermal, knit, pointelle—they’re all good.

Aviator Nation

Aviator Nation is a California lifestyle brand that’s taken off over the past few years. It’s most comfortable collection of pieces for when you need to be beyond cozy. I’m obsessed with its new tie-dye drops as we head into spring officially.

Vuori

I’m a bit behind on Vuori, but I really love all of its fabrics. Its workoutwear is comfortable yet breathable, and its sweat sets can go from walking around the block to errands to working all day, and then to school pickup. They are truly meant to be lived in.

FreeCity

FreeCity has never gone out of style. With celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence recently popping up in its pieces, it’s easy to say the brand is back, but it’s never been gone. Real ones know! Hot tip: The brand makes the absolute best under-the-belly pregnancy pants that are perfect for postpartum as well.

Beyond Yoga

Fabrics are butter. I can’t stop collecting its tank-and-legging sets and reach for them for all my travels or when I know I am going to be in activewear all day.

Suzie Kondi

Suzie Kondi makes elevated pieces that feel easy to feel chic in while being loungewear.

Leset

Leset is my go-to. Its cardigan-and-sweatpant combinations make getting dressed easy. There are basic colors and fun colors if that’s your thing.