7 Ways to Nail the Athleisure Trend
Athleisure, a term for comfortable athletic apparel, has been a growing trend since the 2010s. As it continues to become increasingly popular, it’s clear that our culture values both comfort and style. It’s a sartorial game-changer that’s made leggings and stylish sneakers an everyday outfit for many people. Whether you’re hitting the gym or hitting the streets, mastering athleisure is all about balancing what’s sporty and what’s chic. Get ready to upgrade your wardrobe and embrace a lifestyle of functionality and fashion with these seven ways to nail the athleisure trend.
- Learn the Athleisure Basics — Before you start diving into the athleisure trend, it’s important to understand the basics of what makes an athleisure look. In general, athleisure encompasses comfortable, versatile clothing that’s ideal for both casual and athletic wear. Essentials include joggers, leggings and moisture-wicking tanks or tees to provide flexibility and help regulate body temperature. Sneakers with cushion soles are great options for prolonged wear. Lightweight hoodies add to the sporty vibe while adding casual elements like a denim jacket or low heels can help give the athletic look a twist.
- Wear Fashionable Athletic Shoes — Complete your effortlessly chic outfit with cute athletic shoes to add a pop of color to your everyday look. To wear fashionable athletic shoes, begin with form-fitting leggings or joggers in a neutral tone like black, white or tan. Pair them with a fitted crop top or oversized hoodie for a balanced silhouette. Accessorize with statement sunnies and a structured crossbody fanny pack. Wearing clean, minimalist sneakers in a matching or complementary color ties the outfit together. Experiment with different textures and proportions to find your vibe that transitions from the gym to the street.
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1. Accessorize for Style and Function
Swap out sneakers for a pair of cute flats for comfort and style, perfect for grabbing coffee or running errands to nail the athleisure look. Accessorizing while keeping form and function in mind involves planning strategic pieces that enhance the overall aesthetic appeal and practicality of your outfit. Try a sleek sports watch for sophistication and layering with a lightweight, multi-purpose scarf for warmth. A mini backpack or crossbody with compartments allows you to keep essentials organized while on the go. Balancing fashion-forward elements as practical accessories ensures you’ll have a stylish athleisure outfit for all of your workout and leisure activities.
2. Dress Up or Dress Down Your Outfit
Elevate your athleisure look by wearing closed-toe shoes that offer a sporty yet polished vibe to transition seamlessly from the gym to brunch. Learning how to dress up or dress down your outfit unlocks the key to versatility and adaptability with the athleisure trend. Swap out leggings for sleek, tailored trousers or a midi skirt to dress up your look. Layer with a chic bomber jacket and incorporate statement jewelry like bold earrings or layered necklaces. Fashion-forward sneakers or embellished flats maintain comfort without sacrificing style. Dressing down your outfit involves embracing more casual elements like graphic tees and joggers and accessories like a sporty backpack or baseball cap. Mixing and matching pieces with contrasting styles can take an athleisure look from day to night.
3. Opt for High-Tech Leggings
Vogue shares that nailing the athleisure trend is all about the little details, like elevating your look with sculptural heels or wearing high-tech Lycra leggings. Look for leggings with moisture-wicking properties so you can stay cool and dry during your workouts and other daily activities. Opt for leggings designed with compression technology to get that sleek, sculpted look and enhanced muscle support. Seamless construction can minimize chafing while maximizing comfort. Four-way stretch offers flexibility and unrestricted movement while stylish details like intricate patterns, mesh panels or fun colors add visual interest.
4. Mix Oversized Pieces with Form-Fitting Elements
Create a balanced athleisure look by mixing form-fitting pieces with oversized ones. Pair an oversized sweatshirt with fitted joggers. Layer with a fitted top or cropped tank underneath, and consider cinching your waist with a belt to add structure. Experiment with different fabrics, like a baggy cotton hoodie with leather leggings. Balance portions by wearing chunky sneakers or ankle booties to anchor your ensemble.
5. Use Simple Silhouettes and Clean Cuts
Embracing the athleisure trend is all about honing in on the details because it’s those little details that add up. Opt for simple silhouettes and clean cuts, especially when wearing pieces in neutral tones. You can make your outfit pop by wearing mostly neutral pieces with accessories in pops of color. Don’t be afraid to embrace timeless classics like classic tracksuits and windbreakers.
As time goes on, the fusion of comfort and style will continue to revolutionize the fashion landscape. Incorporating versatile pieces like flats, athletic shoes and stylish leggings can effortlessly elevate your athleisure game to new heights. Confidence and a positive attitude are your best accessories when nailing the athleisure trend. From lounging at home to pumping iron, embrace the athleisure life with gusto and have fun making it totally your own!
