Our obsession with athleisure is more obvious than ever in winter. But it’s no longer traditional sports brands that we turn to for our off-duty favourites. Filling the gap in your wardrobe between pyjamas and knitwear, hoodies and sweats are the unsung heroes of cold weather dressing.
Materials matter; whether it’s boiled merino wool, organic slub cotton or bamboo-blend fabrics, comfort is king. And what your sweatshirt says (or doesn’t say) speaks volumes about your personal style. These brands run the gamut, some leaning into minimalism with low-key branding, others making themselves heard with tongue-in-cheek slogans and recognisable motifs.
Paire’s range of cosy loungewear, silk-blend sweaters and fluffy logo hoodie (and matching track pants) can be worn in bed, on the couch and even at the office.
Delivering seriously good basics is all in a day’s work for Sydney label Cremme. The brand launched at the end of 2022 with a tight edit of T-shirts, but has expanded its collection to include slouchy cotton-blend sweatshirts too. With a boxy fit and medium weight, these crewnecks saunter between elevated loungewear and everyday office essentials, thanks to minimalist detailing. The brand’s signature label is stitched to the back yoke so everyone will know you’re wearing the crème de la crème of sweats.
What’s in a name? For Dylan Best’s slogan-loving leisurewear label, a lot. Best Jumpers took out the National Design Award last year for its collection of Australiana sportswear. And the brand’s latest collection of crewnecks and hoodies doesn’t disappoint. Cut from Japanese vintage cotton terry, the made-in-Melbourne styles feature low-key logos, “No Worries” branding and wombat motifs.
It’s no secret that we’re fans of P Johnson’s tailoring and denim at Broadsheet. But the brand knows how to loosen up, too. Its latest unisex collection of sweats is filled with preppy appeal, from polo necklines to classic navy, grey and white colourways.
Bondi-born label Sir launched in 2014 with an Instagram-only capsule collection. Since then, the brand has grown a loyal following for its dresses, tailoring and swim – but it also offers a quiet collection of loungewear for slower days. There is a classic, minimalist appeal to the oversized range of crewnecks and trackpants that currently come in ivory and black.
New Zealand label Maggie Marilyn is lauded for its sustainable approach to design. And while the brand might be most loved for its smart tailoring and feminine dresses, it offers a range of elevated basics that shouldn’t be dismissed. Vintage-inspired polar fleece and ruby-ish knits are already new-season favourites.
Boody’s collection of bamboo-blend loungewear is already a Broadsheet favourite. So when we noticed that the brand had launched a limited-edition collection of unisex sweats, our interest was piqued. Designed to be worn oversized, these butter-soft double-knit styles come in black, olive and sand colours. Choose the quarter-zip sweater or classic crewneck, and add the matching trackpants or shorts to your rotation for ultimate comfort.
Assembly Label is a consistent favourite when it comes to easy-wearing essentials. And the Aussie brand’s off-duty range is no exception. From clean-lined logo crewnecks to quarter-zip fleeces, it caters to every corner of your cosy wardrobe.
Sydney-based athleisure brand PE Nation offers a collection of logo-led sweats for both women and men. Staying true to the brand’s technical approach to performance wear, pieces are mostly crafted from organic cotton with terry and brushed fleece finishes. Co-founder Pip Edwards says the company aims to level the athleisure playing field by bringing fashionable, functional garments to all kinds of people.
Pangaia rose to fame during the pandemic when its sustainable loungewear couldn’t stay in stock. The brand has recently launched its rainbow range of more mindfully made hoodies and trackies at David Jones. The collection includes organic cotton pieces, as well as those made from recycled cotton, cashmere and wool.
Camilla and Marc’s range of loungewear is an investment in comfort worth making. Subtle logo styles, oversized hoodies and fashion-forward pullovers fill the collection each season.
EM on Holiday has a relaxed state of mind that translates effortlessly across the Sydney label’s range of sweats. From signature hibiscus motifs to irreverent slogans these pieces will bring a playful energy to your wardrobe.
Kiwi label Commonplace leans into a retro sportswear vibe with its collection of logo-adorned sweatshirts and trackpants. Phrases like “Do More” and “Take Care” offer a positive state of mind for your daily dressing.
This article first appeared on Broadsheet on October 8, 2020 and has since been updated. Additional reporting by Stephanie Vigilante
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