Athleisure
Is it just a fad, or is it gonna stay?Athleisure. You’ve seen it everywhere. But is it just a fad, or is it gonna stay? Actually, the phrase “athleisure” was first used in 1976 on an advert for trainers, defined as “casual clothing to be work for exercising and general use.” Designers collaborating with sports brands (like @adidasy3 and @yeezyboosts) or some on their own (like @livetheprocess or @torysport), it’s got us running for our money already. It has blurred the lines, and even added a hint of luxury.
- For the majority of health-conscious millenials who prefer to spend money on activities and experiences, this means boutique gym classes and nutrition-packed picks rather than physical luxury goods. But when added with a pair of great-fitting @aloyoga leggings and oh-so-comfortable kicks? It helps justify the purchase. It’s gotta have functional, performance-oriented reason for its higher cost. It’s not a fad. It’s now a £7bn market in the UK. Look at @alexanderwangny ‘s and @versace ‘s SS17 as well as the rest?
With all the gender-neutral clothing becoming more and more mainstream, it’s kinda refreshing for both designers and the rest of us who dress in a non-exclusively feminine or masculine style. It’s perfect for those who are sartorially-conscious, low-maintenance and willing to invest in pieces that will definitely be worn in all occassions. And like runway fashion, it’s aspirational. It’s who we aspire to be: people who don’t miss the gym, people who invest in themselves. Who doesn’t?
Strong activewear market influencers like @kendalljenner and @gigihadid being regularly photographed outside of the gym sporting their stylish ensembles can be a slippery slope... But cheers to @iza_goulart who became @nikesportswear ‘s face for Nike Beautiful x Powerful campaign, and inspiring throngs of women to stay fit with #strongnotskinny! Then, athleisure has got its other challenges – like, how can we make it ours? Take it from @manreppeler ; add some staple hero pieces and you’re good to go.
