Of course 2020 also saw a return of velour sweatsuits. Not only is it right on time trend-wise (early aughts fashion is coming back, after years of reinventing the ’90s), but it also checks the 2020 trend boxes. Is it comfortable? Yes. Is it eye-catching? Yes. Is it nostalgic? Boy, is it ever. Kim Kardashian West launched her iteration for Skims with a campaign featuring her 2000s pal Paris Hilton, and Juicy Couture has had a slew of collaborations, with the underwear brand Parade, streetwear label Kappa, and faux fur company Apparis.
The Sweats for Evening
There’s something very charming about showing up to an event in sweatpants, using them like tailored trousers or jeans. Rihanna, for instance, wore a dressed up sweat outfit accessorized with an oversized plaid jacket, a Chanel bag, several anklets, and square-toe, ladylike shoes. Yes, she looks fabulous, but part of the appeal is how easy this would be to emulate—just throw on some heels and a jacket and you’re in a Rihanna worthy look.
The Sweat Short
The sweat short was a minor player in loungewear this year, but, we did in fact have a summer, as hard as that is to believe. Emily Ratajkowski and Bella Hadid both tried the style, plucked from a locker room in the ’90s. With all the features of a sweatpant, but without the warm, is it any wonder it took off?
The Irina Shayk
Only the true style renegades could attempt this move. Truly one of the most interesting street style looks of the year was when Shayk wore this velour tracksuit with gray, knee-high heeled boots, and a zebra baguette with a matching mask. It stands out among sweats looks because, with the heels, it’s probably not super comfy. But it is commitment to a look, and for that we commend all who try it.