How to Rock an Athleisure Look

 

@Stella McCartney

Today, comfort is idolized before anything else—no one wants to wear pants and a top that are extremely constricting just to pull off a look for a few hours. Instead, people are swapping stiff jackets and unbendable jeans for more comfortable clothing, and fashion designers and icons are taking notice.

The athleisure look came into vogue in recent years. However, its roots date back to the 1970s. You may have noticed retro windbreakers and pull away pants making a comeback. That’s because these styles from the 70s are comfortable, cool, and fashionable. Today, athleisure fashion is more prevalent than ever. So, how do you pull off the look? Keep reading below to find out how!

@Road Runner Sports

Start with the bottoms

If you’re like most people, you probably own more pants, shorts, and bottoms than tops. Because you have fewer bottoms to choose from, it’s important you have a variety of styles and colors to choose from to pull off multiple outfits at the same time.

There are many different types of athletic bottoms you can wear to pull off an athleisure look. Just take a look at episode 7 of Tan France’s new Netflix show, Next in Fashion. In this episode, fashion designers are tasked with creating activewear for the future, with top Adidas designer Josefin Aberg guest judging. Key takeaway? Activewear should be both fitting and stylish.

Here are some ideas for bottoms you can wear to pull off this look:

  • Biker shorts: You may have seen Kim Kardashian sporting these around town—biker shorts are comfortable and easy to dress up or dress down depending on the look you’re going for.
  • Running shorts: With a pair of crisp white sneakers and an oversized hoodie, you can wear this look with your running shorts out on a job or shopping around town.
  • Joggers: Form-fitting and stretchy, joggers are the perfect pant for this look. If you’re a guy, dress it up with a tailored sport coat. If you’re a girl, throw on a crop top for a breezy summer get-up.
  • Sweatpants: You can’t forget sweatpants when it comes to athleisure. Finding a pair that tapers at the ends will help you look sporty and chic wherever you wear them.

    @facebook.com/stellamccartney

Choose a comfortable top

Once your bottoms are picked out, it’s time to look for the perfect top. When curating your own athleisure-inspired design, look for a top that matches your bottoms. Remember, athleisure is a cross between athletic and leisure, so you want to look for something that can be worn for both exercise and general use.

Some athleisure-inspired tops you can pair with your bottoms include:

Twisted layering tank top: Instead of a run-of-the-mill tank top, choose one with some personality. A layered tank top with the twist in the middle, paired with high-waisted leggings, is the perfect ensemble for the gym or the grocery store.

Funnel neck sweatshirt: Style meets comfort with funnel neck sweatshirts. The extended neck adds a touch of flair to a classic sweatshirt. Take this sweatshirt to yoga, the mall, or anywhere you go.

Windbreaker: Windbreakers are part of any classic athleisure look. They usually come with intricate designs, pops of color, and can be worn for a variety of activities.

Oversized crew neck: Stay warm and fashionable with an oversized crew neck, some biker shorts, tall socks, and tennis shoes. This staple is great for brisk morning jogs or a movie night with your pals.

@goodr.com/

Accessories

To pull your luxurious athleisure wardrobe, you’re going to need some accessories. Take a look at some classic athletic accessories that will tie your outfit together:

Hats: There are a variety of hats you can wear to complete your look. Baseball caps will give you a sporty edge, while beanies will give you outdoorsy hiker vibes.

Sweatbands: Sweatbands are another staple to pull off an athleisure look. Because they’re affordable, you can get multiple colors to wear with a variety of outfits to make you look sporty and chic.

Sunglasses: You can’t go wrong with sunglasses if you’re trying to look athletic. From aviators to cat-eye sunglasses, you can create a refined look that shows your athletic side.

Takeaways

Are you looking to up the ante of your athleisure game? If so, consider these tips on how to rock an athleisure look. From joggers to sweatbands and windbreakers to biker shorts, these are some of the staples you need in your closet to flaunt your sporty side.

@off—white.com/; @instagram.com/off____white/