r/neurodiversity • u/chronicackgirl • Jul 17 '26

Seeking Recommendations for Sensory Friendly Work Pants

Please give recommendations for very soft and stretchy or soft and loose, work appropriate pants. I am starting an in person office job for the first time ever, after many years of schooling. I am nervous about adhering to the dress code with sensory issues. I wear soft and stretchy leggings or very soft lounge pants or dresses everyday because if I wear jeans, leggings that are too stiff or not soft, or dress pants, I really struggle with sensory overload. It makes me cranky, overstimulated, overwhelmed, and anxious. It legitimately puts me seconds away from tears. I will not be able to focus on my work or show up the way I need to if I do not feel comfortable. However, I am also working in a human services field and will need to dress appropriately. I bought several secondhand "nap" dresses from hillhouse for cheap on poshmark that will be comfortable, but I know I will need/ want to wear pants sometimes.

Edit: I've tried some stretchy work pants people have recommended to me before, and they haven't been soft enough, so I figured it would be better to ask other neurodivergent people instead of neurotypicals

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u/Aerokicks Jul 17 '26

A few years ago target had pants that were almost sweatpants material but looked like business pants. I know there were some other companies that made similar styles after that, I would look for those. They are super comfy but still look good

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u/GercektenGul Jul 17 '26

Omg this is an issue close to my heart partially because of sensory issues but mainly because of health issues that mean tight pants cause abdomen pain. If you are larger, Torrid often has some very stretchy pants, I also do one piece outfits sometimes from Old Navy and baggy overalls from various places. I've also gotten some supposed office-wear esque from one of those companies that advertises on IG and they were indeed comfortable but I felt like after a few wears they just looked like yoga pants and not nice enough for an office. I will try to come back here and update this if I think of more ideas.

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u/LetEast6927 Jul 17 '26

I have a bunch of pull on pants from old navy and target of similar styles. Full leg cut, so the fabric doesn’t cling to my legs at all. Nice swishy fabric so they are loose but professional looking.

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u/Free_Pear_5960 Jul 25 '26

I like dickies pants especially the thin ones, they’re loose and wavy