How To Wear Joggers: A Style Guide With 10+ Outfits

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Joggers have quickly become one of the hottest trends over the last few years and let me tell you, I’M HERE FOR IT.

If you love them too, but find yourself wondering how to wear joggers without looking sloppy, this post is for you!

I think we can all agree that sweatpants are pretty amazing.

If you want to be comfortable, almost nothing compares to throwing on your favorite pair of sweats.

However, sweatpants typically don’t look “put together” which keeps most people from wearing them out in public.

Enter joggers. 

What Are Joggers?

Joggers are a sweatpant lover’s dream and a wardrobe staple in the closets of many women – and for good reason.

If you want to feel a little less sloppy when wearing sweatpants, then joggers are the best option.

Joggers are a type of pants (essentially sweatpants) that taper at the ankle and have a bit more structure.

They’re more fitted and are often made of different fabrics like twill, nylon, or polyester whereas sweatpants are typically made from cotton.

Joggers also tend to have a more fitted waist while sweatpants are generally loose from top to bottom.

If you’re looking for versatile pants that you can create many different outfits with, joggers are the way to go.

Because of the fitted waist and tapered ankle, joggers can often be dressed up and worn for occasions that someone would never think to wear sweatpants for.

And the good news is, there are tons of different options to choose from on the market today. 

How To Wear Joggers

In order to wear joggers without looking like you just rolled out of bed, you need to find a pair that not only fits you well but also complements the pieces you plan to pair it with.

You can 100% still wear joggers as sweatpants, but did you know there are joggers out there that can be dressed up, too?

Today, I’m sharing some of the best ways to style joggers including casual outfits and jogger outfits for date nights.

A woman wearing faux leather joggers, a long sleeve bodysuit, and heels.

Joggers | Bodysuit | Heels | Bag | Sunglasses

#1 Scrunch Joggers At The Calf

Wondering what tops to wear with joggers?

A great way to dress up joggers is with a fitted top or bodysuit because it helps to create balance.

It also works well if you plan to scrunch the elastic ankle of your joggers to play with the length.

I found this pair of joggers to be a bit long for me so I used the elastic ankle to scrunch them up around my calf for a different look.

When wearing joggers with ankle strap heels opt for a pair that tightens a few inches above the ankle.

You don’t want your joggers to cover the ankle strap.

These joggers are only $20 and are made of 100% Polyurethane which gives them more of a street style with a sassier, edgier vibe.

They have a stretchy, elastic waistband and an adjustable drawstring.

This is one of my all-time favorite ways to style joggers!

A woman taking a mirror selfie wearing black joggers, a white tshirt, and leopard print sneakers

Joggers | Sneakers | T-Shirt

#2 With Sneakers And A T-shirt

Sure it’s fun to dress up joggers, but being able to wear them as comfy pants is also amazing lol.

I love that although this pair of black joggers is more of a sweatpant material they still look more acceptable to be worn as an outfit because of the slim fit and tapered ankle.

For a sporty look, pair these casual joggers with comfy sneakers and your favorite plain white tee or graphic t-shirt and you’ve got a cute and casual look for running errands or chasing around your kids!

If you opt for a graphic t-shirt instead of a solid one, swap out the printed sneaks for a pair of white sneakers for a more balanced look.

You could even throw a leather jacket over your shoulders for a more modern take on this look.

If you’re looking for a good shirt to wear with joggers these are amazing!

Side note: Although very comfortable, these joggers run big – I’m wearing an xs but typically wear a small.

I’ve also read many reviews on these sneakers that say they run big.

I do not find them to run long, I find them to run wide.

I stuck to my normal size and they fit perfectly (and I have narrow feet).

They also come in different colors!

Leather Look Joggers | Crop Top

#3 With A Crop Top

If you prefer to show a little more skin or if you’re looking for a more risque joggers outfit, try pairing them with a crop top.

A basic white crop top is so easy to find and definitely elevates joggers from casual to edgy.

You could always throw on a moto jacket or an oversized sherpa if you want to be a bit more covered.

Leather Look Joggers | Halter Tank Top | Combat Boots

#4 With Combat Boots

Combat boots have come back in a big way!

Pairing them with everyday joggers is the new trend and is so effortlessly cool.

The great thing about combat boots and joggers is that you can also still look really chic by throwing on an oversized sweatshirt if it gets cold.

Another spin on the combat boots and joggers look is to find a pair with a chunky heel.

Combat boots now come in a variety of styles so no matter which look you prefer, you’re bound to find one that suits your needs.

Chunky heel combat boots are equally as comfortable but give the outfit a different look.

A woman in faux leather joggers, tank top bodysuit and heels, sitting on a ledge.

Joggers | Bodysuit | Heels | Bag| Sunglasses

#5 A Bodysuit & Strappy Heels

Here’s a simple way to wear faux leather joggers.

This outfit is similar to the first one I shared but the ankle is not scrunched to the calf.

This particular pair of pants is made of vegan leather which makes them easier to dress up, so pairing them with a chic bodysuit and heels totally works.

To take this look to the next level you could add a button-down shirt, bomber jacket, or wool coat if the weather is a bit chilly or an oversized blazer for warmer weather.

If you’re not into bodysuits you can opt for another cute top like a one shoulder top.

Side note – Abercrombie has some of my favorite joggers ever! I buy a few new pairs every fall.

A woman in tie dye outfit sitting on a hearth.

Tie-Dye Joggers | Tie-Dye Pullover

#6 As A Coordinating Set

If you’re wondering how to wear joggers in winter one easy way to do so is by opting for joggers that come as part of a coordinating set.

Coordinating sets are a chic way to stay comfortable while also looking put together.

Just be sure to look for a set that has joggers with a tapered leg and some structure.

If you like the monochromatic look you can find similar options here.

A woman in joggers, a white tshirt, and sneakers.

Joggers | Sneakers | T-Shirt

#7 With A Fun Pair Of Sneakers

If you prefer the athleisure look, you can’t go wrong with a simple tee.

The best tops in the warmer months are fitted tees because their comfy and versatile.

Add in a standout pair of sneakers to take your outfit up a notch.

The fun print of these sneakers takes the attention away from the fact that you’re wearing loungewear.

Throw on a denim jacket to complete the look and once again your whole look is comfy yet chic.

A woman in tan sweatpants and a denim jacket taking a selfie in a dressing room.

Lounge Joggers | T-Shirt | Sneakers | Jacket

#8 With A Denim Jacket

Sporty joggers are great for wearing in winter.

Throwing a denim jacket on over a solid or graphic tee instantly changes the entire look.

Whether you’re running errands, picking up your kids at school, or heading for a coffee date, this outfit would work!

I love outfits that are versatile and can easily take me from one event to the next and a denim jacket definitely helps do that.

3 Tips When Shopping For Joggers

When you’re purchasing joggers keep these few tips in mind:

Always look for a pair that has a tapered ankle.

A fitted ankle is much more polished than a loose fit.

Be picky about the material.

Cotton is always going to be a comfortable material but cotton tends to lose its shape over time giving you that baggy-butt and knee look.

Joggers that are made of twill, nylon, or polyester will help retain the shape, even after many washes and wears.

Pick a pair with structure

Joggers that have structure will tend to keep their shape over time.

Shop Faux Leather Joggers

FAQ’s

How Do You wear joggers to work?

Joggers can 100% be worn in the office instead of dress pants.

Finding a pair made of the right material (like a leather jogger) is just as important as finding a pair that works for you length-wise.

This will likely be the hardest part.

As far as creating outfits with joggers, as long as you choose your complimenting pieces properly, styling them for work is really quite simple.

Layering is always helpful when trying to balance out one particular piece of your outfit.

Layering items to pair with joggers can include things like camis, blazers, etc.

Here are a few more simple combinations to help make your joggers work-appropriate:

  1. A cami and blazer
  2. Pumps and a fitted sweater
  3. Strappy heels and a chic blouse

How Do You Look Good In Joggers?

Honestly, I’m a huge believer in just wearing what you want and being comfortable in your own skin.

However, there are a few tips you can follow to help make your joggers outfit really pop.

  1. If your joggers are a bit too long consider scrunching them at the calf for a more fitted look.
  2. Pair joggers with fun sneakers to add a little detail to your outfit.
  3. Dress up joggers with a sassy heel, a chic bodysuit, and a bag that compliments the occasion.
  4. See if you can find a matching top. A joggers set instantly amps up the “put together” vibe.
  5. Throw on a polished jacket – whether that’s a denim jacket or your favorite parka!

What shoes go with joggers?

As you can tell from the joggers outfit ideas above, the options are virtually endless.

However, joggers definitely look better with some shoes than others. Here are a few options:

  • combat boots
  • strappy heels
  • athletic sneakers
  • lace-up gladiator sandals
  • pumps
  • slip-on sneakers
  • flat sandals
  • wedge sneakers

Do you wear socks with Joggers?

This depends on the style of joggers you are wearing.

When wearing joggers that are meant for sneakers and casual wear, then yes!

If you’re wearing joggers as part of a dressed-up outfit that would be more suited for heels then obviously no, you would not wear socks.

How do you properly wear joggers?

As you can see above, there are many ways to wear joggers.

How you style them will ultimately depend on 2 main factors: your personal style and the occasion.

Why do people wear joggers?

Joggers are incredibly comfortable, especially if you opt for a pair that is a cotton/fleece material.

Additionally, there are many ways to style joggers which makes them very versatile.

How do you dress casually with joggers?

The most common way to wear joggers casually is by pairing them with a comfortable pair of sneakers and a t-shirt.

If it’s chilly you can add a button-up shirt or denim jacket and then polish off the look with a crossbody bag to give it some structure.

How do you wear joggers over 40?

Easy – put them on and style them as you wish 🙂

There is no age limit for wearing what you feel good in and what makes you comfortable.

Why are joggers better than a pair of jeans jeans?

Joggers are casual pants that tend to be more comfortable than jeans.

If comfort is most important to you then joggers are a great option.

Do joggers make you look shorter?

If your joggers are 6″ too long then they will make you look shorter, but if you’re wearing the correct size then no, joggers don’t make you look shorter.

I always suggest a pair with a tapered ankle to create structure and balance.

Which body type do joggers look good on?

Any! It doesn’t matter what your body shape or type is.

There are so many different types of joggers, fits, and colors.

Find the style that best flatters your figure and rock it!

Are joggers supposed to be loose or tight?

Typically, joggers are meant to have a looser, more relaxed fit.

However, if you prefer to show off your shape you can certainly find a pair that hugs your curves more tightly. 

How do you wear joggers in public?

A general rule when wearing joggers in public is to wear a shirt that has a bit more shape or structure (like a fitted tank).

This helps to keep your outfit from looking like you just rolled out of bed.

A fitted t-shirt or bodysuit are perfect examples of simple tops to pair with joggers.

Why are joggers better than leggings?

This is a matter of opinion, however, many women feel that joggers are superior to leggings because they aren’t as revealing and they offer more breathability.

Conclusion

The best thing about joggers is that there are so many different ways you can style them.

The most important thing is finding a pair that flatters your figure and makes you feel comfortable and confident.

That’s it for this post on how to wear joggers without looking sloppy!

Hopefully, you’re now more comfortable styling jogger pants for every occasion.

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3 Comments

  1. Love the ideas especially pairing joggers with fun sneakers! Definitely going to get a few new fun pair of shoes and up my jogger game! Thanks!

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