Skims Cotton Rib vs. Soft Lounge: Which one should you buy?

The core difference between Skims Cotton Rib and Soft Lounge boils down to fabric, fit, and function. Cotton Rib is made from a breathable, textured cotton blend designed for a flattering, body-hugging fit perfect for everyday wear, while Soft Lounge uses an ultra-plush, velvety fabric for a relaxed, oversized silhouette focused on ultimate at-home comfort.

Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right Skims collection for your wardrobe and lifestyle.

Skims Cotton Rib

The Skims Cotton Rib collection is all about stylish, comfortable, and versatile basics. Made from a ribbed cotton fabric with a hint of stretch, these pieces are designed to hug your curves for a flattering, body-contouring silhouette. It’s the perfect collection for everyday essential tops, leggings, and bodysuits that feel both breathable and supportive.

• What it is: A collection of form-fitting loungewear and basics made from a stretchy, ribbed cotton blend.
• Key features: Textured ribbed fabric, body-hugging fit, breathable cotton, excellent shape retention.
• Price: Ranges from about $30 to $70 per piece, making it one of Skims' more accessible collections.
• Materials/Construction: A blend of cotton and elastane, providing both softness and stretch.
• Sizing/Fit: Designed for a snug, close-to-body fit. It runs true to size but has a compressive feel that smooths and contours.
• Pros: Highly versatile for lounging or wearing out, breathable fabric is great for year-round wear, flattering fit enhances your natural shape, more affordable price point.
• Cons: Not as cozy or plush as the Soft Lounge collection, the tight fit isn't ideal for those who prefer oversized loungewear, simpler in style.

These pieces are ideal for someone who wants comfortable, flattering basics that can be easily layered or worn on their own for a casual yet put-together look.

Shop this product: skims.com/collections/cotton-rib

Skims Soft Lounge

The Skims Soft Lounge collection is the definition of luxury comfort. Its signature feature is the incredibly soft, plush, and drapey fabric that feels amazing against the skin. With relaxed, often oversized silhouettes, this collection is engineered for maximum coziness, making it perfect for unwinding at home, sleeping, or running comfortable errands in style.

• What it is: Ultra-soft, cozy loungewear made from a plush, brushed, ribbed fabric.
• Key features: Velvety-soft texture, relaxed and drapey silhouettes, lightweight yet warm.
• Price: Pieces typically range from $50 to $100, reflecting its more premium, luxurious feel.
• Materials/Construction: A fluid blend of materials like polyester, rayon, and spandex that creates a signature plush feel.
• Sizing/Fit: Generally features a relaxed, comfortable, and sometimes oversized fit. Sticking to your true size will give you the intended relaxed look.
• Pros: Unmatched softness and comfort, minimalist and chic aesthetic, feels incredibly luxurious, great for both sleeping and lounging.
• Cons: Higher price point, the delicate fabric may pill over time if not cared for properly, less versatile for "outside" outfits compared to Cotton Rib.

This collection is for anyone whose top priority is premium softness and a cozy, relaxed fit for ultimate at-home luxury.

Shop this product: skims.com/collections/soft-lounge

Skims Cotton Rib vs. Soft Lounge Comparison

Materials & Feel

The most significant difference between the two collections is how they feel on your skin. The Skims Cotton Rib fabric is what you’d expect from high-quality cotton: soft, breathable, and slightly structured with its ribbed texture. It feels like a premium, form-fitting basic.

On the other hand, the Skims Soft Lounge fabric lives up to its name - it’s exceptionally soft and silky, with a brushed, velvety finish. It’s lightweight but cozy, designed to drape fluidly over the body. Where Cotton Rib feels supportive and breathable, Soft Lounge feels plush and indulgent.

Fit & Sizing

Their fits serve completely different purposes. Cotton Rib pieces are meant to be form-fitting. They are snug, stretchy, and contour your body, making them great for a smoothed-out look. While true to size, expect a compressive, body-hugging feel.

Soft Lounge is all about a relaxed silhouette. Items are designed to be loose, drapey, and comfortable, with some pieces intentionally oversized. Sizing is true to size for its intended relaxed fit, so there’s no need to size up unless you want an especially roomy feel. Both collections are inclusive, typically offering sizes from XXS to 4X.

Style & Versatility

The Cotton Rib collection functions as an elevated basic. Tanks, tees, and bodysuits are simple enough to be worn for a casual day out, layered under a blazer, or paired with jeans. Its versatility is its greatest strength, it’s loungewear that doesn’t always look like loungewear.

The Soft Lounge collection is primarily designed for comfort and relaxation. While some can rock the sets for a coffee run or travel day, its main purpose is to be the ultimate at-home attire. The aesthetic is minimalist and luxurious - effortlessly chic for low-key days.

Price & Value

Skims Cotton Rib is the more budget-friendly option, with individual pieces starting around $30. Given its durability and versatility for everyday wear, it offers excellent value. Soft Lounge is positioned as a more premium collection, with prices for sets and individual pieces generally ranging from $50 to $100. The cost reflects the luxurious, specialized fabric, making it more of an investment in comfort.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both collections deliver on quality and comfort, but they cater to different preferences and needs.

Choose Skims Cotton Rib if:

• You want versatile basics that can be worn for lounging and everyday outfits.
• You prefer a close-to-body, flattering fit that contours your shape.
• You prioritize breathable materials like cotton.
• You're looking for a more accessible price point without sacrificing quality.

Choose Skims Soft Lounge if:

• Your number one priority is a super-soft, plush, and luxurious feel.
• You prefer a relaxed, loose, and drapey fit for lounging or sleeping.
• You're looking for the ultimate cozy set to wear at home.
• You're willing to invest a bit more for a premium, indulgent loungewear experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Skims Cotton Rib and Soft Lounge?

The main difference is the fabric and fit. Cotton Rib is made of a breathable, ribbed cotton-elastane blend designed for a form-fitting silhouette. Soft Lounge is made of an exceptionally plush and silky fabric blend, designed for a relaxed, drapey fit.

Which Skims collection is softer?

The Soft Lounge collection is significantly softer. Its fabric is renowned for its velvety, plush, and silky feel, which is the primary reason for its popularity.

Does Skims Cotton Rib stretch out over time?

No, the Skims Cotton Rib fabric is blended with elastane, which gives it great stretch and recovery. It is designed to hold its shape well throughout the day and after washing.

How should I wash Skims Soft Lounge to prevent pilling?

To keep your Soft Lounge pieces in the best condition, it’s recommended to machine wash them on a delicate cycle in cold water and lay them flat to dry. Avoid using a machine dryer, as high heat can damage the delicate fibers and contribute to pilling.

Are the collections true to size?

Yes, but they offer different fits. For Cotton Rib, order your true size for a snug, body-hugging fit. For Soft Lounge, your true size will deliver the intended relaxed, comfortable silhouette. There’s generally no need to size up or down in either collection.

Which collection is better for wearing outside?

Skims Cotton Rib is more versatile for wearing outside. The pieces function as high-quality basics that can be easily styled with jeans, skirts, or layers. While many wear Soft Lounge sets for errands, its primary design is for lounging.

Is the Skims Soft Lounge fabric see-through?

The Soft Lounge fabric is generally opaque. However, as with any lightweight and light-colored fabric, wearing nude-colored undergarments is recommended for complete peace of mind, especially with items like the long slip dress.

Which Skims collection is more affordable?

The Skims Cotton Rib collection is more affordable, with prices generally ranging from $30-$70, compared to the Soft Lounge collection's $50-$100 price range.