Introducing your cosy lockdown wardrobe

Hibernation season takes on new meaning this year now that another lockdown is upon us. A focus on creating a cosy stay-at-home wardrobe with high feel-good factor might be just the thing you need to soften the blow of the weeks ahead. There’s nothing – dry martini and a new season of Line Of Duty aside – that makes a night on the sofa a more appealing prospect than great loungewear.

Without a party to dress up for or real-life meeting to attend, the outfits we select to watch telly or sit down for Sunday dinner with the family have transformative powers – and there’s much more to them than an old pair of PJ bottoms. From the power leggings that work as well for your workout as they do for Zoom, to the sofa-surfing sets that offer a perfect balance of class and comfort, here’s all you need to know to stay at home in style.

Slobbing around in your pyjamas is the most decadent thing in the world… until it isn’t, and suddenly you’re desperate to put on a bit of mascara and return to some semblance of your pre-2020 self. It’s here that the lockdown lounge set comes into its own. Created in super-soft velour and tactile jersey, this loungewear combo is just the ticket for days when you crave a tiny bit of polish. Hoodies feature heavily for extra cocooning-factor, paired with ribbed leggings in the case of the fantastic-value Selma set, or with velour joggers in the Cleo combo, which comes in a range of colours. If you want ultimate luxury, a lounge set such as Modern Rarity’s cashmere two-piece is a proper treat for body and soul. Anything in a muted colourway – think dusky pink or grey – is ideal for video calls that demand extra aesthetic appeal.

Are you team track pants or loyal to leggings? Either way, we can all agree that the best trousers for the house are as soft as silk and free from anything that might disturb your Netflix marathon (see buckles, zips, buttons). This doesn’t mean they need to be unflattering, though. Track pants are the lockdown equivalent of smart black trousers so invest in a decent pair that hold their shape and wear them on the days you feel like ‘dressing up’. A cable-knit sweater is a great accompaniment. Leggings are undeniably more complex – mostly because the options are limitless. If you’re looking for a pair to see you through all eventualities, including your morning run, go to a sportswear label – Sweaty Betty and Athleta both combine style with support brilliantly. Those with dog-walking duties to meet should try a thermal.

After a summer at home wearing Lycra and brushed cotton sweaters, winter brings with it the opportunity to cuddle up in a comfort blanket – or a chunky knit so tactile it ignites peak endorphin levels. The classic cashmere polo never goes amiss and works well for more polished moments. For those who enjoy a bit of layering, try a sloppy cardie – imagine Kurt Cobain’s favoured style crossed with something your granny might have knitted. At-home exercisers may want a super-soft sweatshirt – go for oversized where possible – to avoid a post-workout chill.

Handbags and chandelier earrings may be an unnecessary addition to a winter spent predominantly behind our own front doors, but that doesn’t mean accessories are redundant. Far from it, in fact. The ultimate sofa accessory is a cashmere travel blanket – wrap yourself up to watch Gogglebox and drape it round your neck when you nip out to the food shop. Add a luxurious pair of socks – cashmere is always a good idea.

Remember high heels? No? In 2020, slippers are the nation’s favourite footwear, so it’s little wonder we’re no longer satisfied with just one pair. For glamorous tasks such as nipping out to the bin or taking in your latest internet delivery, choose a structured sole – like the John Lewis & Partners Borg mule – while for those nights spent reading by the fire, something soft and cosy is essential.

It’s just gone 7pm and the most glamorous event of the week is upon you. No, you’re not heading out for cocktails with your friends, or bound for a tikka masala at your favourite curry house: it’s Saturday night at home. But what to wear? Undoubtedly it’s all about the statement pyjamas. We’re not talking cute and cosy here, but the ultimate in sultry PJs. Opt for silks and decadent prints – and try your best not to spill takeaway down the front.