Hi guys! Today’s blog has been inspired by my good friend Michelle’s suggestion: How do you stay stylish while wearing comfortable workout clothing? With athleisure-wear on the rise, it is always good to brush up on styling tips for this new trend to stay looking put together while being comfortable.
Athleisure-wear and streetwear has taken over the fashion industry. Many people opt for stretchy yoga pants and comfortable Nikes on a daily basis. Breathable materials and comfortable clothing are the main focus of many modern consumers, but the trick is, how does one stay on trend while sporting activewear?
A top styling tip no matter what you are wearing is to show off your best assets. Activewear can definitely accentuate certain parts of your body, but activewear can also be bulky and unflattering. My top tips and garment must-haves for athleisure-wear include at least one pair of heather grey yoga pants and one pair of black yoga pants for women, and men should have at least one pair of heather grey joggers and one pair of black joggers to be set for success with activewear.
But beyond these basic pieces, I highly recommend mirroring your active wardrobe to what your normal wardrobe looks like. If you look better in brights, keep bright clothing consistent with your comfortable clothing. If slim-fitting neutrals is your thing, you probably do not want to dive out of your comfort zone with a neon orange bulky Nike hoodie.
Another thing to consider is textiles. How do certain textiles make you feel? If dri-fit materials make you itch, try wearing light-weight cotton apparel instead. If you tend to sweat, dri-fit may be for you. Also, basic cotton tee shirts or band tees could suffice to pair up with some active outfits. Cotton is a breathable material and is quite versatile. Dressing down cotton tees to go with a workout outfit is always an option.
Silhouette is a HUGE thing I always discuss with people asking for styling tips. Referencing back to when I mentioned to show off your best assets in this blog, activewear for women should consist of long yoga pants and tighter-fitting tops (possibly a sports bra layered with a loose and breathable tank or tee). Capri active pants cut off legs at an awkward length and tend to make the wearer look bigger and shorter than they are. And even though bike shorts are a fun new trend, they tend to accentuate the thighs and make them look larger, and also stunt one’s height. Keep tops tight or small when compared to other garments you are wearing - it’s all about the booty right now, so that needs to be the part of your outfit most highlighted (keep your tops simple and less bulky). For men, long basketball shorts are officially no longer in vogue. Long shorts for men make the wearer look really short and larger. “Short shorts” that were once all the rage in the 1980s are back! Flaunting your thighs is encouraged now, men! Wearing well-tailored and well-tapered joggers is also a must to look put together while remaining comfortable in your athletic clothing. Lastly, most men want to accentuate their arm and chest muscles, so bulky hoodies or intricate windbreakers are definitely encouraged for your athleisure-wear ensemble.
Lastly, if you do not intend to go to the gym in your fun, new activewear wardrobe and just want to remain comfy and trendy, try pairing up some practical jewelry and accessories or a full face of makeup with your fun Lulu Lemon outfit. Smart watches and simple chain necklaces add a nice finishing touch (you don’t want too many accessories for an outfit that is supposed to be deemed “relaxed”). A fresh face or a full face of makeup paired with your athleisure-wear outfit also do wonders for your appearance (if you are headed to the gym, PLEASE skip the makeup).
Athleisure-wear is such an exciting yet relaxing fashion trend to hit the runway and the streets, and it can be quite flattering if worn properly. I hope these tips help you remain relaxed and trendy within the evolving fashion world.
Thanks for reading,
Lorraine