Ten years ago, the idea of wearing leggings to a girly brunch or joggers to the office would have been a brave and odd choice. But fast-forward to today… and it’s fair to say that we live in a time where athleisure wear is a staple in most people’s wardrobes.
This hybrid style… a combination of athletic and leisurewear has infiltrated every part of our lives, where we can chill out in it, go out for lunch in it – and make it work for whatever occasion. Style and comfort.
And it’s not a passing trend… It reflects how our lives have changed over those years. More people work from home, have much more flexible schedules, and have a better work-life balance which is why people want clothes that work, whether you’re on a morning walk, making a video call, at home checking out the latest racing odds at Boylesports in front of the TV or heading out for food with your friends.
Why Athleisure Is So Popular
One of the main reasons athleisure has become so popular is because more people are now opting for comfort above all else. While traditional jeans, jackets and shirts will always be wardrobe essentials, swapping that tight waistband for a pair of stretchy leggings or joggers is a no-brainer for many.
It’s not just about comfort, though; athleisure can also be really versatile. You can wear a nice pair of black leggings at yoga class… or you can pair them up with a stylish oversized jacket and head out to lunch. You used to only see trainers in the gym, but now people are teaming them with dresses, suits – and sometimes even evening wear, switching it up a bit!
And everyone is embracing it… celebrities, influencers, and even the major fashion houses. Designers like Stella McCartney and big sporting brands like Lululemon, Nike, and Adidas are continuing to blur the line between the sporty and the chic. Even the highest-end luxury labels have dipped their toes into the world of athleisure, giving us joggers and casual wear with couture-level tailoring and luxurious fabrics.
Athleisure Is Perfect for a Busy Lifestyle
Athleisure is great because it’s perfect for anyone with a busy life, which is most people these days. Need to pop to the shops after your Pilates class? Athleisure is what you need. Going to the gym after a cafe working session? Same outfit… no problem.
But that’s not all. Lots of workplaces have started to relax their dress codes, especially since the pandemic, where more people are working hybrid – both at home and in the office. Now, you’re more likely to see tailored joggers and smart trainers in offices than ever before. Remember… Athleisure isn’t just gym wear – and it’s definitely not about looking like a slob. It’s more about getting the right balance between activewear and style.
Sustainability
Another reason it’s so popular is because there’s a big push on sustainability. Some of the biggest athleisure brands are investing time and money in more eco-friendly materials like recycled polyester, organic cotton, and plant-based dyes. These days, people care a lot more about the impact their clothing choices have on the environment, so brands are responding by offering incredible-looking options that are also even better for the planet.
And because athleisure is durable, it’s also a smart buy. Unlike fast fashion, investing in a well-made pair of leggings or a high-quality hoodie will last for ages, withstand lots of washes and wear and reduce waste.
Top Athleisure Styling Tips
Not quite sure how to nail the athleisure look? Well, here are our top tips:
- Mix sporty with classic: Team up your leggings with a nice structured coat, or maybe style your joggers with a fitted white shirt.
- Invest in decent footwear: Clean and stylish trainers can add a bit of va-va-voom to an otherwise basic and potentially boring outfit.
- Layer: If you throw on a long trench coat over a hoodie, it gives it a more urban edge.
- Accessorise: And let’s not forget the accessories. A gorgeous designer bag, standout sunglasses, or a bit of simple jewellery can make the outfit pop.
Remember, it’s all about balance. It needs to look effortless and feel comfortable enough to move around in the whole day.
It’s Here to Stay
Ultimately, it’s not just about clothes — it’s about a lifestyle. It’s flexible, comfortable, and stylish…. So whether you’re going to the gym, heading out for a coffee, or even working from home, you can look smart, stylish – and, even more importantly, feel completely comfortable!
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