Meet the next generation of joggers
The comfiest staple in your wardrobe is enjoying a smart new makeover
Hands up if your most worn item of clothing over the past two years has been a pair (or several) of joggers? Soft, slouchy and with an elasticated waistband, they’re made to love. But as the return to workplaces and crisp blue skies tempts us out of our cocoons, does that mean waving farewell to this most comfortable of staples? Thankfully, no
Enter the next generation of joggers to see you through every day: elevated styles in flattering, tailored cuts and premium fabrics that no-one could accuse you of having a ‘lazy day’ in. As stylist and John Lewis & Partners collaborator Erica Davies says ‘It can sometimes be hard to feel pulled together when you’re wearing elasticated waistbands, but really, they’re very useful trousers – albeit very comfortable ones.’
New in-house styles forgo jersey in favour of denim and crisp linen iterations. Brands like Jigsaw and Reiss have risen to the smart/casual challenge with details like pleats, split hems and wide-leg silhouettes. The result is joggers that you could happily sport to a meeting in the office paired with a shirt. Erica’s suggested outfit formula is as follows: ‘Wear them with a long-sleeved organic cotton tee and a sleeveless jumper, then layer on a slouchy double-breasted blazer, or a fluffy Borg boyfriend coat in a contrast colour.’
In the footwear department, keep shoes casual with plimsolls or trainers, until you can swap them for sandals come late spring. Elasticated waistbands every day? And breathe out…
