THE JOURNAL

After what was likely an eventful December – and, probably, a hedonistic New Year’s Eve – the prospect of some much-needed relaxation is coming into focus. And while the resolutions to get outside and exercise are admirable, there’s also something to be said for using January as an opportunity to switch off, and to take stock of your “staying in” wardrobe. From classic sweatshirts and comfortable hoodies to fleece-lined sweatpants and retro-inspired shorts, here are the best sweats to see you through the official month of “Oh, I’d love to, but I’m… busy”.
01.
The vintage-style CHERRY LA logo-print sweatshirt

CHERRY LA’s graphic focus gives its sweatshirts a nostalgic element, with various logos inspired by vintage shirts all over this one. The design gives it a playful edge, while the fleece-back cotton-jersey construction means that you don’t have to sacrifice anything in terms of comfort. What more could you ask for from a sweatshirt?
02.
The wheelie good One of These Days logo-print jersey hoodie

Feeling tired? Artist Mr Matt McCormick brings a classic Americana influence to this hoodie from his line One of These Days, this time through the graphic tyre print that sits front and centre. This stand-out logo print is combined with a simple cream colour and mid-weight cotton jersey construction that make the hoodie a versatile everyday piece.
03.
The laid-back luxury Auralee tapered sweatpants

Japanese label Auralee is known for its relaxed luxury, and it extends that approach to sweatpants. This pair come in fleece back cotton-jersey – meaning extra warmth and comfort – while the tapered fit and deep brown colourway mean that the sweatpants look just as good when you’re out and about as they do when you’re lying on the sofa.
04.
The hits-different Adish tasselled, embroidered hoodie

Adish has managed to make the classic cotton-jersey hoodie something else entirely. The tassels – used instead of drawstrings – and traditional embroidery on the chest and sleeves nods to the cultural heritage of the olive trees on Palestine’s West Bank, the inspiration for the full collection. It also all adds up to make the hoodie a statement piece.
05.
The countercultural Les Tien patched drawstring shorts

Admittedly, sweatsuits normally include a pair of cosy sweatpants. But sometimes shorts are the perfect solution. Maybe the weather’s a bit warmer (hello record-breaking temperatures), or you want more freedom? Either way, Les Tien has you covered. This exclusive pair come in an army green colourway, finished with the raw edge and a series of retro-inspired appliquéd patches that help to create a relaxed aesthetic.
06.
The crocheted Story Mfg. cotton-velvet zip-up cardigan

Story Mfg. manages to combine its sustainable ethos and slow fashion approach with a relaxed silhouette and comfortable focus. Nowhere does the brand show this more than with this Polite cardigan, made using cotton-velvet material and finished with crochet-knit detailing. As if that wasn’t enough, the cardigan comes in midnight blue with a tonal pattern, making it a statement piece that doesn’t sacrifice anything in terms of comfort.
07.
The new New Age crystal-embellished Collina Strada sweatpants

We’ve consulted the crystals – specifically the crystals woven into these eye-catching tie-dye pink sweatpants by Collina Strada– and these are the trousers you need in your life. Who knows? Maybe you owned them in a previous life, given that they’re fashioned from deadstock material, so there’s a circular business model behind this swirly pattern. Plus, you won’t see them anywhere else – this is another MR PORTER exclusive.
08.
The easy-does-it Mr P. jersey hoodie

Sometimes, it’s best to keep things simple with your sweats. This cotton-jersey hoodie from our very own label, Mr P., adds a more refined edge to your relaxing looks without going overboard. There’s a ribbed trim and drawstring hood, and this sage green colour of the hoodie helps it stand out from its plain-and-simple competitors.
09.
The rib-tickling KAPITAL printed zip-up fleece

While a fleece is undoubtedly a practical piece – nothing offers more warmth – KAPITAL has found a way to make them more playful. In this instance, they’ve covered the extra warm design with a multicoloured abstract pattern, and the overlay of a skeleton rib cage helps the fleece to make a statement.
10.
The simple Mr P. loopback cotton sweatshirt

A grey cotton sweatshirt is an absolute classic, and with good reason. Mr P. has perfected the formula with its version of the staple piece, combining a naturally breathable loopback cotton-jersey with ribbed trims. If you’re going to stick to the classics with your sweatshirts, you might as well do it properly.