Lounging Around

Images: Kiara Kittner + Shelley Mokoena

If you think loungewear means only putting on old tracksuit bottoms and a hoodie, think again. As we’ve seen from scrolling endlessly through Instagram, there are, without a doubt, dozens of loungewear styles that have been popping up and we can’t get enough. We chat to Kiara Kittner and Shelley Mokoena about their effortless dressing philosophies. 

What’s your everyday stay-at-home style?

Every morning, for my trip to the lounge, I prioritise comfort and style. Although I’m not going anywhere, I strongly believe that when you feel good in what you’re wearing, you’ll have a more productive day. This doesn’t necessarily mean that I’ll put on a power suit. For me, it’s all about finding your own personal style to achieve your ultimate loungewear-chic look.

What do you love about your ultimate loungewear look and what are the key pieces? 

This look ticks all of my boxes. It’s comfortable, stylish and will have your back if you’re having a bad hair day! I started with a good pair of sweats that are versatile, high-waisted to elevate the look and not too oversized. Pairing these with a bralette in the same colour palette instantly makes the outfit look more “put together”. To dress it up a little while still keeping it comfortable, I added an oversized teddy coat with a matching teddy bucket hat. To finish it off, gold jewellery and a classic pair of white sneakers. Easy as that and you’ve got an effortlessly stylish at-home look.

Any styling tips you can share to take a loungewear look from ready for bed to ready for business? 

1. If your sweat pants are very baggy, try pairing them with a fitted bodysuit. Aim to balance the ratio of tight-fitting and oversized garments. 
2. Styling your hair will instantly lift your look. Even if you don’t feel like spending ages on perfecting a beach wave, simply do a slick back bun (and as a bonus, put in a hair mask while rocking this chic look).
3. Wear your favourite necklace with a cute pair of hoops to look extra fab, even if you’re on your couch.

What do you suggest avoiding when it comes to mastering loungewear?

Making the slightest adjustment can completely transform your look. Try to avoid mixing too many colours and prints. Don’t get me wrong, I love a pastel set or a statement print, but try to keep them separate. By selecting loungewear in mostly neutral colours, you will have more combination options and therefore versatility.

Also avoid buying loungewear that is too big for you. There is a misconception that to be comfortable, you need to size up and I’m here to tell you that that’s not the case. By purchasing your correct size, loungewear will fit you better and allow you to layer as you please.

What’s your everyday stay-at-home style?

Effortless and comfortable chic. I like to be comfortable, but prefer to look decent while doing so, which motivates me to get things done and not laze around all day. It’s really all about simple styling for me, even in my normal day-to-day life. I could wear a T-shirt with sweatpants on some days, but adding my favourite necklace or earrings immediately elevates the look for me in a subtle way.

What makes this your ultimate loungewear look and what do you love about it?

The colours. White exudes airy lightness and elegance and grey and black complement it perfectly. The look is also slightly oversized, but not slouchy, which gives it a sense of comfort and ability to move around freely. I like being warm at all times and I can remove or use the poncho whenever it is needed. Lastly, this look is versatile – I would wear it outside too and probably replace the poncho with one of my jackets.

Any styling tips you can share to take a loungewear look from ready for bed to ready for business?  

Jewellery and the type of shoes you wear can instantly make a difference.

What do you suggest avoiding when it comes to mastering loungewear?

Personally, I avoid wearing clothes that are too tight. I need to be able to move around freely and sit anywhere without always having to adjust something.