Sorry, Sweatpants—This Cozy Trend Is Officially Replacing You

Daylight savings has come and gone, Netflix is releasing new shows by the minute, and bomber jackets are trending—I'm starting to get the hint that hibernation season is officially upon us. The time has come for me to revisit my at-home wardrobe, and I'd be totally unprepared for months of series binging without buying into my new favorite trend that is maximum cozy, minimum effort, and instantly chic. I've decided that house dresses are the best way to step into 2022 with an elevated take on loungewear. 

Gone are my early pandemic days of frantic Amazon orders hoping to find a solution to the newfound need for more time spent at home. I now have a strategic approach that is both comfortable and stylish, and I want you to try it with me. 

It may be difficult for me to convince some of you to trade in your trusty sweatpants for a chic dress, but hear me out. Dodging seasonal woes becomes much easier when you feel like your best self, and this is the trend that will help you do just that. A new house dress is a purchase you won't regret because you'll be able to layer it with cozy knits for days spent at home, but you can also dress it up for a night out here and there—exactly what you'll need for this winter. I've gathered a style for everyone, whether you lean toward more tailored, menswear-inspired pieces or flirty, feminine silhouettes, so start scrolling.

Nothing But Knits

The knit dress is an item I can guarantee every WWW editor has, and so should you. We universally agree that WFH days, movie nights, and everything in between require this comfortable yet elevated dress.

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(Image credit: @chainkyr)

Classic pearl jewels and a sleek slicked-back bun make this look exude luxury.

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(Image credit: @kitkeenan)

 A printed pop of color will brighten up your days.

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(Image credit: @lefevrediary)

After seeing the cutouts on this midi, I instantly hit save on this look.

Shop knit dresses:

Little House on the Prarie

This dress style is the definition of comfort first. I always find myself in between a float and a flounce when I wear this style around the house. The breezy silhouettes make them instant mood-lifters. 

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(Image credit: @champagnemani)

I'm always open to exploring a puff sleeve.

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Just know that it takes five seconds to get ready when you own a dress like this.

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(Image credit: @sallyomo)

Okay, it's official—I'm leaning into this style.

Shop prairie dresses:

Risky Business

Oh, to feel as young and free as Tom Cruise's happy-go-lucky character in Risky Business. Well, now you can sorta get there by simply throwing on your favorite oversize shirtdress and having an at-home dance party. I know what my plans are for tonight.

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(Image credit: @jourdansloane)

This is giving me "East Coast hideaway" vibes, and I'm loving it.

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(Image credit: @cocobassey)

Cinch the waist with a luxurious belt bag, and you just may find yourself in a whole new look.

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(Image credit: @discodaydream)

When you add gold jewelry, your shirtdress looks even better.

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Slip Into This

Nothing feels more luxurious than lounging at home in a delicate slip dress. I'm trading in the recently revived cowl-neck silhouette and choosing styles that bring a bit of edge with intricate cutouts, scrunched straps, form-flattering necklines, and more.

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(Image credit: @chrissyford)

When your dress is just as exquisite as your modern-art collection.

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(Image credit: @itsmekellieb)

Cobalt blue if you dare.

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(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

Lots of lace is the secret to upping the luxury experience of putting on a slip dress.

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Up next, It's Official: This Is the #1 Dress Trend of Fall 2021

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Associate Editor

Sierra Mayhew was always destined to work in fashion, but she didn't know it at first. Growing up with no choice but to wear a rotation of school uniforms and activewear, her love for fashion really blossomed when she moved away for college and was able to finally define her very own personal style. Shortly thereafter, she interned at Elle magazine and instantly knew that editorial was for her. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, she worked for ShopBazaar, contributing regularly to Bazaar.com, and finally made her way to Who What Wear, where she is an associate editor. When she’s not working, you can catch her always trying to catch a flight, trying the latest fitness craze in New York City, or exploring luxury vintage boutiques.