Once upon a time, not too long ago, sweatpants were reserved for only the most relaxed or depressing of times: PMS bloat, hangover days, movie sessions on the couch…Once worn as an “Eff you!” to society (or by dorky guys who just didn’t know any better), they’ve slowly inched their way into the “real” wardrobes of fashion’s elite. Blame – or thank – Alexander Wang and his pro-sweat T line.
This season, designers are taking the sweatpant out of the traditional realm plain old baggy cotton and giving them a trouser-style makeover. Emma Cook‘s merino wool ($300), slouchy still, have pleated slant pockets and a flowing detachable belt that lends them casual crispness. Go a step further with Phillip Lim‘s wool pants
($475): high-waisted with a wrap-belt for extra emphasis, though a ribbed waistband and cuffs don’t let you think you’re dressing up. A.L.C.
($206.50 from $295) keeps it on the summery side with their version in French terry, a dressed-down fabric with a trouser front. Cropped and tapered, Vince‘s harem sweats ($225) read like wool dress pants from afar; up-close, they are quite the contrary.
So would you wear them with high heels or are these still not seeing the light of day (unless you’re answer the door to pay the delivery guy)?
