In our fast-fashion throwaway culture, it’s not uncommon that we are inclined to buy clothes on impulse, only to wear it once, forget all about in two months, and then toss out when we are bored of them on the third. Before the entire vicious cycle repeats itself again. One of the most popular shopping edits of late by publications globally centres around loungewear and how they serve as the perfect middle-ground between being comfortable at home and looking presentable when working under lockdown. But would the pieces still stay relevant for us to get dressed in once we are all given the green light to head out?
This curated list of smart-casual and relatively inexpensive (you’ll get your bang for your buck with the number of times you’ll want to wear these versatile pieces out) clothes is put together to address that shopping issue with a resounding yes. Tasteful, effortless, professional, and made with lightweight materials for you to stay cool in the Equatorial climate, you’ll want to add these to your wardrobe regardless of whether or not you’re directed to be a homebody!
COS
Men
Various pieces of menswear are defined by collared shirts and longer sleeves, and colourways are easy to match with calm tones of blues and whites. The t-shirts highlight breathability for the sunnier days but are able to be easily converted into smart silhouettes when tucked in. For those who are predisposed to favour vibrant colours, check out the pieces in spirited hues of pink and faint reds. The uplifting colours can aid in taking away your stresses from the day, and can be effortlessly paired with neutral bottoms.
Top row (left to right): BRUSHED COTTON TOP (USD 39), BOXY ORGANIC COTTON SWEATSHIRT (USD 69), LINEN OVERSHIRT (USD 115).
Middle row (left to right): OVERSIZED KIMONO-SLEEVE SHIRT (USD 89), RELAXED JERSEY T-SHIRT (USD 35), RELAXED MOCK-NECK T-SHIRT (USD 45).
Bottom row (left to right): RELAXED ELASTICATED TROUSERS (USD 89), RECYCLED ORGANIC-COTTON CARGO TROUSERS (USD 115), TEXTURED TROUSERS WITH DRAWSTRING (USD 89).
Women
Coming in a series of classic blues and sharp whites, the womenswear collection takes flowy silhouettes and elevates them with a polished flair. The classic one-piece garments offer convenience with an ease for those who are prone to get into the work mood instantly on weekdays. The functional top and bottom separates are made in smooth, lightweight organic cotton with cinched waists and smart collars that add a professional twist to their loungewear aesthetic.
Top row (left to right): COTTON SHIRT DRESS (USD 115), DRAPED PANEL COTTON DRESS (USD 89), OPEN V-NECK COTTON JUMPSUIT (USD 135).
middle row (left to right): OVERSIZED TUNIC SHIRT (USD 89), OVERSIZED A-LINE COTTON SHIRT (USD 99), LINEN MULBERRY SILK CARDIGAN (USD 115).
bottom row (left to right): COTTON-LINEN SHORTS (USD 69), RELAXED COTTON-LINEN TROUSERS (USD 89), LYOCELL LINEN ELASTICATED TROUSERS (USD 99).
Sandro Paris
Men
Working from home doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on style. Pull on a plain top in neutral or pastel shades to bring calmness into your day. Complete the look with chino trousers in stretch cotton or cotton trousers with elastic waistband, for the ultimate smart casual look. These relaxed pieces will quickly become your work-from-home staples to make your weekdays more effortless.
Top row (left to right): Stripe panel hoodie ($330), preppy cardigan ($450), raglan sleeve minimal sweatshirt ($290).
middle row (left to right): short sleeve shirt ($290), oleron jumper ($390), Corsica print sweatshirt ($290).
bottom row (left to right): slim-fit chino trousers ($330), tailored trousers ($490), slim-fit chino trousers ($330).
Women
Don’t stay in pyjamas all day! Set your daily agenda as you slip into a pair of loose-fit trousers paired with a chic cardigan or sweater. Select from knitted purple cardigan to add a touch of pizzazz to an otherwise plain look, a varsity-style jumper with contrasting elements, or a longline cream cardigan to look extra chic yet comfortable for work video calls at the eleventh hour.
top row (left to right): tie-dye sweatshirt ($415), ted cardigan ($560), please love embroidered striped hoodie ($370).
middle row (left to right): Joyn jumper ($415), ombré jumper ($330), v-neck fine knit jumper ($415).
bottom row (left to right): crystal-embellished cardigan ($625), navam trousers ($395), high-waisted pleat trousers ($480).
Tove & Libra
top row (left to right): pointelle midi dress ($196), openwork vest ($108), patch pocket pullover ($123).
bottom row (left to right): long v-neck cardigan ($149), rina bodysuit ($56), long v-neck cardigan ($149).
This up-and-coming Hong Kong label was launched with the goal to help women create a more streamlined wardrobe with timeless pieces. Having been in the fashion industry for generations, they are conscious of focusing on producing quality over quantity through ethical practices with thoughtful designs in feel-good materials for the informed customer.
Their latest collection of cotton-silk knitwear is super easy to care for, while adding a much-needed dose of luxury to the everyday. Made with a 30% silk and 70% cotton blend, the pieces featured combine the best of breathability and moisture-wicking properties to produce delicate pieces ideal for warm and humid climates just like ours. Their superfine fibres allow the pieces to feel soft and delicate against the skin while also being resilient and durable, the ultimate combo that exemplifies the best of effortless wear.
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