The Trend to Stay: Athleisure

Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a fashion-forward trendsetter, or simply someone who appreciates the perfect balance between fashion and function, athleisure has something incredible to offer. The trend of activewear/ workout wear/athleisure is something which has taken the world by storm. Gone are the days when yoga and gym wear was kept separate from that of your weekend nights out. Thanks to the pandemic when most of the meetings are conducted sitting in front of your laptop in your sweatpants or lounge wear, its time to effortlessly transitions from the gym to the streets, form comfort to chic and from active to effortless, in style.

What is Athleisure?

Athleisure is a fashion trend that emerged in the late 2010s and has since become a popular style choice for many people around the world. The term “athleisure” is a combination of the words “athletic” and “leisure,” reflecting the blend of athletic and casual elements in this style. It refers to clothing that is designed for athletic or sports activities but is also suitable for everyday wear and casual occasions.

Athleisure wear typically includes comfortable and functional clothing items such as leggings, joggers, sweatpants, hoodies, track jackets, sports bras, and sneakers. These pieces are often made from lightweight and stretchy fabrics like nylon, spandex, and polyester blends, which offer flexibility, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties. The focus is on comfort, allowing individuals to move freely and comfortably throughout their day.

Why Athleisure is so in Trend?

The rise of athleisure can be attributed to several factors. One is the increasing popularity of wellness and fitness activities. As more people engage in sports, yoga, and other physical activities, there is a demand for clothing that seamlessly transitions from the gym or studio to everyday life. Athleisure allows individuals to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle while still looking stylish and put together.

Another contributing factor is the shift in societal norms and dress codes. Casual dress has become more acceptable in various settings, including the workplace. Many companies now embrace a more relaxed dress code, allowing employees to wear athleisure-inspired outfits, especially on designated casual days. This shift towards comfort and versatility has made athleisure a go-to choice for many individuals seeking a balance between style and functionality.

Athleisure has also been influenced by the fusion of fashion and technology. Brands have incorporated innovative features like moisture-wicking, anti-odor, and UV protection properties into their clothing lines. Furthermore, advancements in textile manufacturing have led to the development of performance fabrics that offer enhanced breathability, stretch, and durability. These technological advancements have not only improved the functionality of athleisure wear but have also contributed to its popularity.

In terms of style, athleisure embraces a sporty and relaxed aesthetic. It often incorporates elements inspired by traditional athletic wear, such as stripes, color blocking, and logos. However, designers have also elevated athleisure by adding fashion-forward touches, such as unique cuts, trendy patterns, and high-quality finishes. This combination of athletic and fashion elements allows individuals to create stylish outfits that are comfortable and versatile.

Athleisure is not limited to clothing alone. It has also influenced the footwear industry, with the rise of fashionable sneakers and athletically inspired shoes that can be paired with various outfits. Additionally, accessories like gym bags, baseball caps, and athletic-inspired jewelry have become popular among athleisure enthusiasts, adding a finishing touch to their overall look.

In summary, athleisure is a fashion trend that blends athletic and casual elements, offering comfortable and functional clothing for both athletic activities and everyday wear. It has gained popularity due to the increasing focus on wellness, changing societal norms, advancements in textile technology, and the fusion of fashion and sportswear aesthetics. Athleisure allows individuals to maintain an active lifestyle while looking stylish and comfortable in various settings.

Top Athleisure/Activewear Brands

The UK is home to several renowned athleisure brands that offer a wide range of stylish and functional clothing. Here are some of the best athleisure brands we’ve picked for you.

Lululemon: Originally from Canada, Lululemon has gained a significant following in the UK for its high-quality activewear. They are known for their comfortable leggings, sports bras, and tops, designed with innovative fabrics and thoughtful details.

Sweaty Betty: A British brand, Sweaty Betty offers a diverse range of athleisure wear for women. Their collections combine fashion-forward designs with technical fabrics, making them popular among fitness enthusiasts and fashion-conscious individuals alike.

Gymshark: Founded in the UK, Gymshark has become a global sensation, particularly among the younger demographic. They specialize in trendy and form-fitting activewear, including leggings, hoodies, and sports bras, known for their distinctive and sleek designs.

Stella McCartney: A collaboration between the renowned British fashion designer and adidas, Stella McCartney brings a touch of luxury to athleisure. Their collections feature elegant and fashion-forward designs combined with high-performance fabrics.

Reiss:  Known for their sophisticated and tailored clothing, Reiss also offers a range of athleisure options. Their athleisure pieces feature clean lines, modern cuts, and premium fabrics, combining comfort with a refined aesthetic.

Varley: Varley is a UK-based brand that focuses on creating athleisure wear that seamlessly blends style and functionality. Their collections offer a mix of trendy patterns, unique cuts, and high-performance fabrics, catering to those who appreciate fashion-forward activewear.

LNDR: LNDR is a London-based brand that specializes in creating technical and stylish athleisure wear. Their designs incorporate seamless construction, compression fabrics, and sleek silhouettes, ensuring both comfort and performance.

Outdoor Voices: Although originally from the United States, Outdoor Voices has gained popularity in the UK with its minimalist and versatile athleisure collections. Their clothing focuses on a balanced approach to fitness and offers a range of comfortable and functional pieces.

Under Armour: Under Armour is an American sportswear brand that has also gained popularity in the UK and worldwide. Known for its performance-driven athleisure wear, Under Armour offers a wide range of clothing, footwear, and accessories for both men and women with a diverse range of athleisure wear, including leggings, shorts, t-shirts, hoodies, sports bras, and outerwear. They cater to different sports and fitness activities, allowing individuals to find suitable options for their specific needs and preferences.

So, there you have it! Remember, in the realm of athleisure, you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort or vice versa—it’s the perfect harmony of both. Get ready to elevate your style and conquer your day in athleisure greatness!