The Best Things To Wear Now That Aren't Sweats (But Feel Like Sweats) By California-Based Brands

Note from the editor: It has taken me a long time to publish anything on Clever regarding the current pandemic. Like most of you, I’ve often been paralyzed with feelings of hopelessness or the inability to do more. That said, I’m moved to tears on a daily basis by the innovation of others: Pivoting or pausing usual business models to offer something that’s specifically useful now or offering a portion of their much-needed profits during this difficult time to a cause in more dire need. I see you. And I want to say upfront that I want to do more and will do more, but I also know that what I have the platform to do now is support small, local — and perhaps struggling — businesses. I have connections and a voice to offer tips that make staying at home as comfortable, calming and inspiring as it can be and that’s where I want to start. I hope I can help even in this small, humble way and I look forward to doing more as I continue to be moved by all of you and what you’re doing. -Ashley

If you’re wearing sweats right now, my hat — and bra and shoes and so on — is off to you. Why wouldn’t you be? Without the conventions of a traditional work environment and social obligations, pants that zip and button are being eschewed favor of clothing that’s comfortable when you’re working from your new makeshift desk (aka your couch or a cleared-off portion of your kitchen table, etc), going for your daily sanity walk, or curled into the fetal position watching Every. Show. Ever.

And that’s cool. I’ve been sporting some seriously cool sweats sets myself, but it does make me wonder what happens to fashion post-pandemic? Will we forever prioritize comfort? Or is there a reactionary movement already in the works? It will be interesting to see.

But if you’re like me, you’re ready to start finding a happy place in between: something that’s soft and easy to move in and that maybe, just maybe, will make you feel a little fancier when you’re doing digital happy hour with your fellow quarantined loved ones or just twirling around your room for your daily freestyle dance party. And if you’ve got a few bucks to spend on it and you want to support local designers with your hard earned cash, we’ve got a few ideas on cool things to wear that aren’t sweats — but feel just as good as sweats — that you’ll actually be psyched to wear long after you’re able to leave the house again. Oh! And please be sure to donate/buy masks from many of these brands: you can find a comprehensive list from out friends at UncoverLA here.