Let’s face it, we have all been guilty of wearing our favorite leggings to the grocery store or to run a quick errand instead of putting them to good use in the gym. Well lose the guilt, because wearing workout clothes has become a new high fashion trend, Athleisure.
This trend has been in the makings for many years, but 2016 finally made it official on the runways of New York Fashion Week.
What is athleisure?
Athleisure, also known as active fashion, is the trend of wearing athleticwear while performing non-athletic tasks. This fashion is inspired by the millennial generation and the active lifestyle that they lead. Athleisure is also inspired by the awareness that today’s fashion “it-girls” spread for health and fitness.
Athleisure started when women began trading in their jeans for leggings in times of convenience. Now the style has become high fashion. Adidas, Under Armour, Fenty X Puma, and Nike are just a few brands that have embraced designer athleticwear and were seen on the runways of New York & Paris Fashion Week Spring 2017.
How to Wear Athleisure:
Sneakers with (almost) anything.
Wearing sneakers is no longer limited to casual wear. Sneakers can now be worn with anything from jeans to dresses (no dress is excluded, even evening wear!).
Leggings instead of or as pants.
As if we weren’t already doing this one. It’s simple really, wear leggings in place of normal, socially acceptable pants.
Versatile crop tops.
Find that perfect crop top that you can wear to the gym and then out with friends that same evening.
One of the things that I love about athleisure is that it’s so easy, anyone can do it. Although it is easy to do, there are still some rules.
Rules of Athleisure:
Mix function & fashion.
When wearing athleisure be sure that your athleticwear is flattering for the outside world. Although athleisure is popular, many things that are acceptable to wear in the gym are NOT acceptable in the public. (EX: biker shorts, sports bras, sheer leggings…etc.)
Accessorize.
No, I don’t mean jewelry. Pair your favorite leggings and crop top with a bomber or biker jacket. Or tie an oversized flannel around your waist.
Dress appropriately for the occasion.
This can tie into rule #1. Athleisure is being accepted in many places such as, gourmet restaurants, the workplace, and even in high fashion, but not everything that can be worn to the gym can pass in these places. (Leave the sports bra and biker shorts at home.)
Stay age appropriate.
Athleisure is for anyone, there is no age limit. However, be conscious of how you wear your apparel. Brighter colors and loud prints are acceptable for ages 45 and under, while neutral colors and simpler prints are better for ages 50+.
That’s everything you need to know about athleisure!
