Athleisure has been trending for years and it shows no sign of stopping. It is a perfect combination of comfort, functionality, and fashion. Like many trending products, athleisure is especially well-regarded amongst millennials and Gen Z. This style was made popular in recent years by celebrities like Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Billie Eilish. Some believe athleisure originated with the trend of women wearing yoga pants in non-yoga settings.
Athleisure has become popular to wear during many non-athletic occasions, like school, socializing, or even work. Styling athleisure may seem intimidating, but with a few key staple pieces, making athletic clothing fashionable is a breeze. Here are 6 easy ways to style athleisure clothing.
Matching Sets
Matching top and bottom sets have become increasingly popular in recent years, both in athleisure and in other fashion trends. Whether you’re trying a full tracksuit, a coordinated sports bra with leggings, or a tie-dyed sweatshirt and sweatpants set, you are sure to look fashionable. Many athleisure brands sell coordinated outfits as full sets or as separate pieces.
Layering
Combining athleisure pieces with “regular” fashion items makes for a comfortable, stylish outfit. This can be done by layering items like leggings or a sweatshirt under pieces like a leather coat or a blazer. By layering your outfit, you are able to transition from a setting like an office to the gym in a matter of seconds. The chic juxtaposition of layering sporty clothes with fancier clothes is a trend that’s certainly here to stay.
Sneakers
If there’s one thing that the athleisure trend has shown us, it’s that casual shoes like sneakers and slides can really be styled with anything. Even the classiest dresses, jumpsuits, or skirts can be dressed down with athletic shoes. Athleisure has proven that running shoes, basketball sneakers, and hiking boots aren’t just for sports. There are a few foolproof ways to make even the chunkiest sneakers work with your outfit. Minimalism, color matching, and choosing the right socks can make or break a look.
Accessorize
The right accessories can bring your athleisure pieces to the next level. You may try pairing layered jewelry like rings, necklaces, and earrings with sporty clothes to elevate your look. Even a simple, small detail like a fresh manicure, a pair of sunglasses, or a set of shiny diamond studs can give your outfit the boost it needs. If you’re feeling extra bold, don’t be afraid to try pairing platforms or even heels with a tracksuit or sweatpants.
Balance Loose and Fitted Pieces
For a comfortable outfit that still looks put-together, try combining oversized bottoms with a fitted top or vice versa. By balancing the fit of your different pieces, you can create a structured, finished ensemble. This look can be achieved by styling loose-fitting joggers with a tight crop top or fitted leggings with an oversized sweatshirt. As with most athleisure trends, this balance creates an outfit that is both comfortable and fashionable.
Try a Statement Piece
While athleisure exists mainly for the purpose of comfort and functionality, that doesn’t mean you can’t stand out while wearing it. Not all athleisure needs to be focused on minimalism. Outfits can be easily amplified by a statement piece such as a bright bag or a graphic tee. An eye-catching accessory or clothing item can elevate your style and boost your confidence.
Although athleisure tends to be marketed towards women (specifically millennials and Gen Z), anyone can pull off this comfy trend. With the right amount of styling and choosing the right pieces, athleisure is an excellent way for people of all ages, sizes, genders, and fashion preferences to look great while feeling great too. With the exponentially growing popularity of athleisure, it’s safe to say this trend is here to stay.