9 stylish alternatives to jogging bottoms that are just as comfortable
17.2.2025
Translation: Elicia Payne
You’d never leave the house in your tracksuit bottoms? That doesn’t mean you can’t wear something comfortable. Here are some trousers that are just as comfy but look incredibly smarter.
We all know Karl Lagerfeld’s famous quote about jogging bottoms and loss of control. Over the course of his long career, he repeatedly ranted about the cosy piece of clothing in interviews. And in 2014, his dislike for them was even immortalised in literature. In his book «Karl über die Welt und das Leben» (The World and Life according to Karl) it says: «Sweatpants are a sign of defeat. You lost control of your life so you bought some sweatpants.»
More than a decade and countless sports-inspired trends later, the late fashion designer’s statement is still widely quoted. Yes, it’s almost become part of the vernacular. Because even though tracksuit bottoms have long been established in fashion and normalised in everyday life, they still have a certain stigma attached to them. However, those who’ve placed them under house arrest for this reason don’t have to forgo comfort when they’re out and about.
Pleated, knitwear, satin and more
The answer to this is wide-cut fabric pants with elastic or drawstrings. They’re like the sophisticated, older sisters of jogging bottoms. They look particularly chic in exciting textures such as satin and pleated. Pinstripes make the trousers look more classy, while trousers with prints add a playful touch. Knitted trousers are also a pretty choice – especially when paired with a matching cardigan or sweater.
Source: Vila
Source: Vila
Source: JJXX
Add high heels, statement jewellery and a stylish top layer such as an oversized blazer, trench coat or leather jacket to create a modern mix of casual and elegant – and your legs and waist will still move freely and won’t have to suffer.
Listed below are nine examples you could replace your jogging bottoms with:
Header image: Vila
Has endless love for shoulder pads, Stratocasters and sashimi, but a limited tolerance for bad impressions of her Eastern Swiss dialect.
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