1. Coach Utility Parka ($368) // 2. Zella Live-In Leggings ($52, $34 during Anniversary Sale) // 3. H&M Long Sweatshirt ($9) // 4. Ray-Ban Classic Aviators ($150) // 5. Toms Serpent Print Slip Ons ($115) // 6. Marc Jacobs Matelasse Scarf ($79) // 7. Michael Kors Chronograph Watch ($250) and Towne & Reese Bracelet ($24) // 8. Gap Leather Satchel ($100)
Sitting in a car, on a train or on a plane for more than a couple of hours can be very uncomfortable. Recently, a reader asked if there was a way to style comfy clothes, like leggings and sweatshirts, to give you a well-dressed look. When I spotted this photo on Pinterest, I knew I’d found the answer to her question.
One. The photo shows an olive-colored anorak, but I just love the soft color of this Coach parka so much, I had to use it instead. I also found this Fillmore anorak for $128 that comes in nearly a dozen colors. I also found this under-$50 Caslon jacket that comes in three colors. Old Navy offers a stylish plus-size anorak in olive.
Two. As I’ve said before, the Zella leggings are the greatest. If you have access to the Nordstrom pre-sale, they’re $34 a pair instead of $52. If you don’t, come back on Friday. I love them because the fabric is heavy, soft and wears like iron. They do run a little small though. I’m a 4-6 and take a medium.
Three. Sweatshirts as stylish wear are here to stay. This $9 H&M sweatshirt is long enough to cover your rear end (bonus!) and it’s super soft. If you prefer something with a hood, don’t miss this $17 sweatshirt from Target.
Four. Aviators, a love story. The title of my forthcoming memoir. Okay, maybe a chapter in my memoir. Need a cheaper pair? These Ralph Lauren Aviators are $67.
Five. Under normal circumstances, I would never advocate the wearing of Toms. However, options for chic, casual, slip-on shoes are incredibly limited. If I were wearing this outfit, I would wear sneakers or Keds. But I really like the snake-embossed material these Toms are made out of, so they’re the chicest slip-ons on the market.
Six. The photo shows a beige wool scarf. I really don’t like the look of it. If this were my outfit, I’d go for a chic, black-and-white printed scarf like this Marc Jacobs scarf. Need a cheaper one? Try this ikat-print scarf.
Seven. A simple oversized watch is something I really need to add to my jewelry box. This Michael Kors watch is one of the best choices on the market. Try this $80 Sophi watch if you need something cheaper.
Eight. How perfect is this casual leather bag? It’s a great weekend bag, a great plane bag, and it comes in three lovely neutral colors–grey,navy and beige.
I recently discovered Bensimon sneakers as a great slip-on option; I wear my ballerina flats basically everywhere, they’re so comfy. They also have a pair that are more Toms-like as well as lace-up and laceless versions of their traditional tennis shoes. I feel like Jean Seberg when I wear them! Shopbop seems to have the monopoly on their sale in the US.
Oh, I like those a lot. How’s the fit/sizing?
I wear 8-8.5 regularly, and the 39 fits PERFECTLY.
This is a super cute outfit, but here’s my question: are we ok with the top not covering the butt region? I generally think of leggings as pants as a no-no.
Style by Joules
I agree. I’m much more willing to wear a pair of Toms (love them actually) but would never wear leggings as pants, much prefer a pair of skinny jeans.
I prefer comfy jeans, as well. But a lot of the frequent long-distance travelers who read the blog have argued convincingly for an exception to “leggings are not pants” only for longer distance travel. I like maxi dresses, but the outfit above is a well-styled alternative for leggings lovers.
I was about to leave the same questions as Joules. I have always been solidly in the camp of “leggings are not pants”…but my pregnant self REALLY want them to work as weekend pants. But what about butt coverage? It doesn’t look like the sweater you recommend would cover the butt. Are we saying that’s acceptable now?
That sweater, on me at least, is long enough to give enough rear coverage. I still wear a long tunic tee under it as well. I do not believe leggings are pants, BUT, if your rear is covered than athletic style leggings (like the Zellas) can be worn in situations when very casual attire may be in your best interest (gym, travel, 3am hospital run, unexpected emergency grocery run, etc.). This is an alteration of my previous position. I still don’t believe leggings are your best option, but heavy, gym-style leggings with tush coverage are no different than yoga pants, in my opinion.
Belle, what long tunic tee would you wear with the leggings? Would love a recommendation!
Victoria’s Secret makes a nice/cheap one, you can find it in their yoga-wear shop. Athleta makes a more expensive one.
thanks for your response & guidance!
The description says it’s long enough to cover your butt. Full-bum coverage is ideal, but if the look is a little more sporty, I think it’s okay as long whatever you’re wearing goes past the point where your butt starts to curve in toward the leg.
I was about to give into the Toms trend prior to a two-week trip to Europe, but they were SO uncomfortable.
I bought Superga slip-ons instead. LOVE. I have a pair of linen kicks, but they come in navy, other neutrals, and a silver lame.
https://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/search?keyword=superga+slip+on&x=0&y=0
Belle, for you:
https://intothegloss.com/2014/07/into-the-gloss-warby-parker-sunglasses/
The Michael Kors watch is also on sale during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale for a lot less – $166.90 v. $250. It comes in rose gold, as well, which I love.
Belle any legging recommendations for talll girls who need a few extra inches on the leg length?
Have you tried the Zella ones? They bunch up on me at the ankles (I’m 5’6″), which I love, and they have quite a bit of length hip-to-waist, so the crotch doesn’t pull down like some other leggings I’ve tried. They might work for you if you want them to fit right at the ankle.
This is Mariannan! She’s a Finnish blogger. I LOVE her style.
Here’s her original post. 🙂 https://mariannan.costume.fi/2014/06/23/tallinn-part-two/
Thanks, Pinterest obscured the origin.
Follow up question: Is this look acceptable for overseas business travel? Generally I am expected to travel in business casual attire, but the policy is “relaxed” for overseas flights. I’m hesitant to travel in leggings while with senior, male colleagues, but I want to be as comfortable as possible in economy class.
What about a pair of black ponte pants/”jeans”? I found mine at Gap last season and they’re fantastic for travel. Mine have more stretch than denim, are more substantial than a legging (no VPL!), and have pockets and a zipper so they look like actual pants and not workout clothes. I’ve also seen them at Loft and Target.
This.
Or I’d opt for:
1. J.Crew Pixie Pants (keep the butt covered, though), which look nicer than leggings.
2. Slouchy ankle pants (Ann Taylor has a few right now…like the fluid ankle pant)