Workleisure, a fashion category that blends workwear and leisurewear, has become a significant trend in recent years. It allows individuals, especially women, to seamlessly combine professional responsibilities with personal, relaxing costumes. Many experts believe that workleisure will continue to dominate the fashion landscape for the foreseeable future.
Workleisure are clothes that feel and act like exercise clothes, but look like work clothes. It’s a kind of lifestyle or work arrangement where the boundaries between work and leisure are fluid. It’s the perfect integration of professionalism and comfort for work.
This can occur through flexible work schedules, remote work, or even the use of leisure activities that complement work life. For women, in particular, this may be an important way to balance the demands of both career and family or personal well-being.
Key Elements for Workleisure Outfits
Workleisure has embraced the shift toward more casual, comfortable clothing. Designers like Stella McCartney, known for her sustainable designs, notes that the future of fashion is not just about high-end luxury but about functional luxury—clothing that is both comfortable and practical.
The basic workleisure outfits provide-
Comfort | Fabrics that offer stretch, breathability, and ease of movement. |
Versatility | Outfits that can easily transition between work and leisure activities. |
Sophistication | Subtle design elements, such as structured cuts, simple patterns, or high-quality materials that elevate the look. |
Functionality | Practical clothing options that still look professional while offering comfort for daily activities. |
Workleisure Fashion Ideas
Here are some key styles of workleisure clothing:
Athleisure-Inspired Pieces
Athleisure, once considered purely for the gym or casual outings, now combines athletic wear with casual fashion, making it a great choice for workleisure. These pieces include items like leggings, sports bras worn under blazers, sweatshirts, sneakers, and track pants. They offer flexibility, stretch, and comfort while still looking polished when paired with more formal items.
“The athletic world and fashion world are becoming more interconnected than ever,” McCartney said in a 2021 interview. “The lines between work, play, and fitness are being blurred, and people expect clothing that can transition between all three seamlessly.”
Stylist Rachel Zoe agrees that the key to making athleisure appropriate for work is sophistication in material and design. “Look for sleek, high-waisted leggings, fitted joggers, and modern sneakers that pair well with blazers or button-down shirts,” Zoe suggests. She emphasizes that while comfort is a priority, adding structured accessories (such as a leather bag or minimalist jewelry) helps elevate the look.
Chic Joggers and Sweatpants
Modern joggers and sweatpants are designed with tailored cuts and sophisticated fabrics. It allows transition seamlessly from leisure to work environments. These can be paired with blouses, blazers, or simple t-shirts to create a balanced look.
Wear high-waisted joggers with a tucked-in blouse or a lightweight sweater, paired with sneakers or loafers.
Tailored joggers and sweatpants provide comfort without sacrificing style. Luxury style designer Gabriela Hearst suggests opting for structured sweatpants made from wool or a wool-blend fabric for a chic yet laid-back office look.
She emphasizes that tailoring is key to making relaxed styles work for the office. “The trick is to create clean lines and refined fits while maintaining the comfort of loungewear,” Hearst explained in a 2020 interview with Vogue. She
Knitted Dresses and Skirts
Knitted or stretchy fabric dresses and skirts are soft yet structured. They provide comfort and movement, while still looking put-together when accessorized appropriately.
Put on a body-con knit dress that can be paired with a cardigan for the office, or a stretchy pencil skirt paired with a cozy knit sweater.
Knitted dresses and skirts are a perfect example of workleisure. They provide a level of ease and comfort appropriate for professional environments. Eileen Fisher, a designer known for her minimalist aesthetic practices, says, “Knitwear is the epitome of both comfort and elegance.”
She believes that knitted midi dresses or A-line skirts can be dressed up for work with a blazer or structured cardigan and dressed down for leisure with a pair of casual sandals or sneakers.
A knitted dress can go from the office to the weekend with ease. For a work-appropriate look, add a tailored jacket or cardigan, and for a more casual look, simply throw on a denim jacket or cozy sweater.
Blazers with Stretch Fabrics
Workleisure blazers are made from soft, stretchy materials (like jersey or knit blends). These blazers retain the professional look but are far more comfortable than traditional, rigid office wear.
Put on a soft knit blazer worn over a casual t-shirt and jeans or paired with athleisure pants.
The blazer is a cornerstone of professional attire, but the workleisure trend has introduced a more relaxed version of this iconic garment. Stella McCartney’s collection of soft, stretch blazers showcases the evolution of the traditional office blazer. McCartney believes that “the modern work environment needs clothing that moves with you—literally and figuratively.”
Comfortable Footwear
Think sneakers, flat sandals, or loafers that are both chic and easy to wear. The key is versatility—these shoes should work in both professional settings and casual, off-duty moments.
Create a collection of slip-on sneakers, comfortable block-heeled sandals, stylish flats, or minimalist sneakers.
Workleisure movement has shifted footwear from rigidity to comfortability. Patricia Field, renowned stylist and costume designer, has long championed the idea that footwear should not only be practical but also an extension of personal style. She believes that stylish sneakers, loafers, and even flat sandals can be professional if chosen correctly.
“Modern workwear is all about embracing comfort. A pair of sleek, minimalist sneakers can be just as chic as a pair of high heels—especially when paired with tailored pants or dresses. The key is maintaining a polished, neat look,” Field says.
Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of Vogue, agrees, stating, “Gone are the days of discomfort. In today’s fashion, especially in the realm of workleisure, footwear is where style and comfort meet.”
Tops with Elevated Fabrics
Workleisure tops often blend elements of casualwear with professional cuts. Look for tops made from jersey, bamboo, or cotton blends. Peplum tops, flowy blouses, and basic crewneck t-shirts in elevated fabrics fit this category.
Put on a well-fitted, high-quality cotton t-shirt under a blazer, or a sleek wrap top paired with pants or skirts.
Elevated basics like soft blouses, t-shirts, and cardigans are essential elements of workleisure wardrobes. Designers such as Isabel Marant and Tory Burch have incorporated these pieces into their collections. Isabel Marant highlights that “what you wear at home should feel as special as what you wear to the office, and basics in luxe fabrics like cotton, silk, and cashmere help achieve that balance.”
These pieces are perfect because they provide comfort without looking too casual. When paired with more structured pieces like a blazer or tailored pants, they create an effortless, polished look that works from morning to night.
Cropped Pants and Capris
Cropped pants, capris, and culottes have emerged as key pieces in the modern workleisure wardrobe. These garments strike an ideal balance between formal office attire and more relaxed, casual wear, making them perfect for individuals seeking both professionalism and ease in their day-to-day outfits.
Cropped pants have become a fashion-forward option for the modern “hybrid work” environments. According to Dr. Sarah Williams, a fashion historian at the Fashion Institute of Technology, “Cropped pants offer a sense of professionalism while also allowing for mobility and comfort—two qualities that are now prioritized in the workplace.”
Cropped wide-leg pants, often paired with a loose blouse or fitted blazer are suitable for both office meetings and post-work socializing. Alternatively, you can put on tailored capris combined with a simple tank top and cardigan.
Additionally, culottes, which have a wider leg and a cropped length, can be dressed up with a tucked-in blouse and heeled sandals for a more elevated look. Fashion consultant Emily Roberts explains, “The key to wearing cropped pants successfully in a professional setting is to ensure that the rest of the outfit remains structured, whether it’s a crisp shirt, blazer, or statement accessory. This helps elevate the look from casual to chic.”
Maxi Skirts and Dresses
Flowing maxi skirts and dresses are versatile, comfortable, and stylish. They are excellent choices for women looking to create workleisure outfits. According to fashion stylist and expert, Sarah Jones, “Maxi skirts and dresses are the perfect balance of relaxed femininity and professionalism. The long length gives an air of sophistication, and when paired with a sharp blazer or cardigan, they can easily be worn to the office, meetings, or even casual events.”
The versatility of these pieces also allows for seamless transitions between work and leisure. As noted by fashion consultant Lisa Adams, “A maxi dress or skirt can effortlessly move from office hours to after-hours with just a few tweaks in accessories. Swap out the blazer for a light denim jacket or a cozy sweater, and you’re ready for dinner with friends or an afternoon at a café.”
Additionally, the comfort factor is key. Dr. Emily Green, a lifestyle expert, points out, “Maxi skirts and dresses are not only about aesthetics but also about feeling good. The flowy fabric allows for ease of movement and comfort, making them a practical option for long hours at work or days spent running errands.”
Soft Blouses and Shirts
Soft, breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, and jersey feel great against the skin. Experts agree that the key to mastering the workleisure aesthetic lies in finding pieces that balance the ease of casual wear with the polished appearance of more formal office attire.
Fashion stylist and workwear expert, Jessica Riley, explains, “Soft blouses made from natural fabrics like cotton and linen are breathable and ideal for maintaining comfort throughout a busy day. These fabrics allow for easy movement, which is essential for anyone who spends time in both professional and casual settings.”
Cotton and linen, being lightweight, are especially popular during warmer months, offering a cool and airy feel without compromising on style.
Oversized Sweaters and Cardigans
Cozy oversized sweaters and cardigans are an essential part of the workleisure wardrobe. When layered over a work-appropriate outfit, these garments provide warmth and elegance, making them ideal for creating outfits that transition seamlessly from the office to after-hours.
Fashion expert and personal stylist, Kate Williams, explains, “Oversized sweaters and cardigans are the ultimate pieces for combining comfort with professionalism. They add a layer of sophistication to a basic outfit, softening the look without sacrificing style. When paired with structured pants or a pencil skirt, they provide that cozy yet polished vibe that is perfect for workleisure looks.”
Moreover, oversized sweaters and cardigans are incredibly adaptable to different body types and seasons. They allow for freedom of movement, which is why they are often favored in workleisure wardrobes.
Designer and fashion consultant Laura James adds, “The beauty of an oversized sweater is that it can be universally flattering. It drapes the body without clinging, and when paired with more structured items—like tailored trousers or a sleek dress—it creates a balance that feels both polished and comfortable.”
Tailored Sweatshirts and Hoodies
Unlike their traditional, baggy counterparts, these elevated versions are designed with a more fitted silhouette and often feature sleek, high-quality materials, making them suitable for both relaxed and professional environments.
Pair them with tailored pants or a structured jacket to create a modern, polished look—ideal for those who want to maintain a professional appearance while enjoying the comfort of casual wear.
Fashion expert and stylist, Olivia Thompson, explains, “Tailored sweatshirts and hoodies bring a fresh, contemporary twist to traditional office wear. They provide the same level of comfort as their oversized counterparts but with a more refined fit and material that elevates the look. The key is in the design—sleek lines, high-quality fabrics, and thoughtful construction make these pieces office-appropriate without compromising on comfort.”
Tailored hoodies and sweatshirts offer a balance of comfort and support. The fit ensures that they don’t feel bulky or restrictive, while the breathable, performance-oriented fabrics allow for temperature regulation throughout the day, making them ideal for individuals who need comfort and flexibility during long work hours.
Conclusion: A New Era of Fashion
As workleisure continues to gain momentum, fashion experts agree that it represents more than just a passing trend. It’s a new way of dressing that reflects a shift in how we work, live, and approach comfort in our daily lives.
Whether through the sophisticated athleisure pieces or elevated basics that marry practicality with luxury, the workleisure trend offers a diverse range of styles that cater to different needs and lifestyles.
