Once relegated to gym sessions and workouts, activewear has evolved into a fashion-forward trend known as athleisure, with some of the most notable stars being spotted out and about rocking their finest ensembles. Comfort and style are no longer mutually exclusive and with its blend of performance and fashion, athleisure has taken the world by storm, allowing us to stay comfortable and chic in our daily activities.
Yet, there is a knack for making your athleisure choices look effortless and chic, so if you’re eager to explore this trend and want to avoid the fashion faux pas that comes with it, we’ve created this comprehensive guide that will equip you with the tips and tricks you need to master the art of athleisure.
From stocking up in the Nike sale to learning how to layer, keep reading to discover all you need to know when it comes to perfecting the active look outside the gym.
Choose stylish and functional pieces
When incorporating activewear into your daily wardrobe, opt for versatile pieces that complement your existing clothing effortlessly. Invest in classic and minimalist designs that can easily mix and match with various tops, outerwear, and shoes.
Neutral colours like black, navy, and grey are a solid foundation for your athleisure wardrobe. These timeless shades allow you to create stylish outfits for different occasions, from casual outings to running errands or even a laid-back brunch with friends.
While leggings and joggers are activewear staples, consider exploring other options like stylish shorts, skorts, or cropped leggings for warmer weather. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different silhouettes and patterns to keep your look fresh and exciting.
Learn how to layer
Layering is a great way to add versatility and style to your wardrobe. Whether you’re headed to the supermarket for your weekly food shop or meeting friends for coffee, adding the correct layers can elevate even the plainest outfits.
Throw a lightweight jacket, a cosy cardigan, or an oversized hoodie over your sports bra or tank top to create a cosy, layered look. Or, if you want to look more put-together, pair your activewear with a bomber jacket, making it suitable for various settings.
Accessorise with flair
Accessories are crucial in enhancing any outfit, and activewear is no exception. Elevate your athleisure look with carefully chosen accessories that reflect your personal style. A statement bag, a sleek backpack, or a fashionable crossbody purse can add both functionality and flair to your outfit.
Consider incorporating headbands, hair clips, or scrunchies to keep your hair in place while adding a touch of style. Sporting a trendy baseball cap or a cosy beanie can protect you from the elements while complementing your activewear ensemble. Complete your look with a pair of chic sunglasses to shield your eyes and give your outfit an air of effortless coolness.
Stock up in the sales
As you dive into the world of athleisure, you’ll likely want to expand your activewear collection. Like all branded fashion items, some of the most popular names in activewear, such as Adidas, Lonsdale, Nike, etc., are brimming with options and so seeking out some sales is a great way expand your activewear wardrobe quickly.
Keep an eye on websites like Supersales to look for deals on hundreds of brands such as Nike, Dr. Martens, Clarks, and many more household names. The Nike sale never stops on their site, so regularly check their website or sign up for newsletters to stay informed about upcoming sales events to ensure your activewear wardrobe stays on trend and varied.
Step out with stylish footwear
Footwear plays a vital role in the success of any athleisure outfit. While athletic shoes are perfect for the gym, explore more casual and stylish options for everyday wear. Sleek sneakers or slip-on shoes can seamlessly transition your activewear look to an outfit suitable for various occasions.
These versatile shoes can also complement jeans, leggings, or dresses, making them ideal for spontaneous activities or outings. Don’t hesitate to add personality to your ensemble with trendy sock choices. Socks with interesting patterns or designs can peek out from your sneakers, adding a subtle yet stylish touch to your outfit.
Experiment by mixing and matching
One of the most exciting aspects of athleisure is the ability to mix and match different brands and pieces to create unique outfits. Feel free to experiment with layering activewear pieces over or under your regular clothing items. For instance, pairing a sports bra with an open-back top or a mesh tank can infuse a hint of sportiness into your casual look.
Combine a crop top with high-waisted jeans or a flowy skirt to balance athletic and chic. Mix and match different textures and fabrics to create visually captivating ensembles that reflect your personality and style.
Don’t be afraid to wear a tennis dress
Athleisure dresses have emerged as a trendsetting option within the world of activewear recently. These dresses are designed with the comfort and flexibility of traditional activewear while exuding a chic and casual vibe. Look for athleisure dresses with flattering silhouettes and unique details like cut-outs, asymmetric hems, or bold prints.
Pair your athleisure dress with casual sneakers or slip-on sandals for an effortless yet stylish look that can easily take you from daytime activities to relaxed evening gatherings.
Transform your outfit from day to night
A staple of a good outfit is wearing it seamlessly throughout the day and night, allowing you to transition from daytime activities to evening events effortlessly. For instance, suppose your phone buzzes after completing a yoga class, it’s your friend wanting to grab drinks, but you don’t have a spare outfit. Fear not! With a few simple adjustments, you can turn your gym-going outfit into an elegant ensemble suitable for a night out.
Choose a sleek and form-fitting activewear dress in a solid colour or a subtle pattern for a dinner date or a night on the town. Layer on a stylish blazer or a chic leather jacket to add a touch of sophistication to your look. Or shove your trainers into your gym bag and swap them for a pair of heeled ankle boots or strappy sandals that exude elegance while maintaining comfort.
Accessorise your evening-ready outfit with a statement necklace, bold earrings, or a dazzling clutch. By swapping out some key pieces and accessorising strategically, you’ll effortlessly elevate your activewear ensemble from casual to chic, making it perfect for any night-time affair.
Final thoughts
Activewear has transcended the boundaries of the gym to become a fashionable and functional choice for everyday wear through the advent of athleisure. Choose versatile and stylish pieces, layer strategically, accessorise with flair, and select the proper footwear to achieve a seamless blend of comfort and style. By incorporating these tips and tricks into your style repertoire, you’ll effortlessly elevate your activewear game and master the art of athleisure.
