Hoodies. Sweat pants. Sneakers. Tracksuits Uggs.. What does all of this clothing have in common?
Is it the brand choices? No.
Is it the texture? No
In fact, those accessories all comprise a recent fashion trend that is growing. Introducing the world of Athleisure.
As far as I’m aware, the trend has its origins back when I was in high school — 10 years ago. I recall seeing classmates wear the style in school frequently. I didn’t view it as a straight-up fashion statement considering it was worn as a form of convenience. If you weren’t trying to impress or were in a bad mood, athleisure was what most people wore.
And even after high school, people are still entrenched in athleisure aesthetics. College was an extension of this. Furthermore, I’m realizing that focusing on the style in a gender neutral way. Really, athleisure is more commonly associated with women’s clothing.
Regardless, I still view it as gender neutral and therefore versatile. You can wear athleisure to the gym, movies, restaurants, amusement parks, dates and recently — work. Due to the impact of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, many workers were forced to stay in their house. When the protocol started to die down, companies started to allow people to wear athleisure instead of traditional business dress codes. The biggest example I’ve seen of this development happened with the National Basketball Association (NBA), where coaches previously wore suits and ties. After the protocol was lifted, the league decided to allow coaches to wear tracksuits and sweatpants from then on.
And who could blame them, athleisure is a style that is lightweight and breathable. Allowing men and women to move around without having wedgies. Plus, athleisure is usually made out of fabrics and fibers which makes it durable in dire situations such as weather.
Athleisure is the definition of comfortable. Literally, you can look your best all day and still be comfortable. That’s why it continues to be a popular, stylish choice to this day. Successful clothing brands such as Nike and Reebok are attuned to the clothing demands of the youth. It’s an accessible style that will continue to be demure. It’s minimal yet sleek, appropriate for all ages.
