The Athleisure Wear Trend

April 14, 2021

As we approach the end of lockdown and a potential return to the office more than ever demand for comfortable and practical clothes becomes a priority. That said, giving up on style is simply not an option, so how do we combine fashion and function together to create a chic but everyday wearable look? Athleisure is the answer. Turning performance wear into everyday wear, athleisure wear is blurring the lines between the clothes you’d wear to the gym and those you’d wear to lunch. So, whether you’re off to the yoga studio or hitting the shopping mall, your outfit can now do it all.

What is Athleisure Wear

It's offical! The term “athleisure wear” has now been added to the urban dictionary and is defined as “Clothes you wear when you want to look like you're athletic, or you just left the gym, but all you really did was Netflix and chill all day” The true beauty of athleisure wear is that it’s both practical and completely fashionable. The relaxed and on trend style blends sportswear with ready-to-wear staples to create styles that are chic and comfortable. Athleisure wear for me reflects the changing demands of a modern lifestyle and more casual dress. As such, is it time to invest?

Mix Function with Fashion

Crush the athleisure wear look by mixing function with fashion. By blending fashion pieces like jeans, your favourite leather jacket or heels with activewear pieces such as leggings or a sports bra, you’ll create a well-balanced look. Likewise, by keeping an eye out for athleisure wear pieces that are comfortable and sports-inspired yet stylish and chic, you’ll be sure to invest in only the best items. In particular, high-performance fabric mixed with an on-trend aesthetic is a great option.

Dress for the Occasion

Taking activewear out of the gym requires acknowledging when it’s appropriate to wear AND when it’s not! Although athleisure wear isn’t likely to be appropriate attire for an interview, it can work really well when you’re heading out for evening drinks. As a rule, the more formal the occasion, the more fashionable your outfit should be. The more casual the occasion, the more functional (athleisure wear) you can dress.

Accessorise

Complete athleisure wear look by accessorising. Try to keep it sleek, but add a touch of your personality. A pair of sunglasses, a baseball cap or a stylish backpack will all work perfectly. Of course don’t forget about jewellery, compliment your style by dressing it up or down, just don’t overdo it. A simple pair of earrings or a thin chain necklace is all you need.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wearing Athleisure

Do mix sports pieces into your regular fashion wardrobe for a balanced look.
Do get creative, consider mixing pieces and layering.
Do mix fashion fabrics, think denim and leather, with high-performance, sports fabrics.
Do make sure all your athleisure wear pieces are in good condition.
Don’t throw on any old thing you’d wear to the gym.
Don’t overlook accessories and jewellery.
Don’t forget about your personal style and look.

How to Wear Athleisure

Layer sports pieces under regular fashion items, perhaps consider a sports bra under a jacket or leggings under a signature chic coat.
Make cropped leggings more streetwear appropriate by pairing them with long line tops or dresses.
Wear athleisure pieces to work by mixing a sporty T-shirt with tailored pieces.
Pair high-waisted yoga pants with a fitted blazer for a stylish and easy athleisure look.

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