Athleisure Fashion: 9 Style Tips for Women
The athleisure fashion industry is worth $270 billion globally. It’s numbers like that that go to show this isn’t a passing trend – athleisure is here to stay, and we couldn’t be happier.
Today we’re going to talk about how you can take your athleisure game to the next level. From the streets to the runway, athleisure styling is as fun as it is functional. Here are 9 tips that’ll help you rock your next athleisure look.
1. Span-don’t
Spandex items have their place but you shouldn’t go overboard with your athleisure outfit. If you’re wearing a pair of leggings, try pairing it with a loose top or boxy sweatshirt. Conversely, if your top is form-fitting, pair it with a loose pair of sweats.
Proportion is key when it comes to styling athletic wear. Form-fitting outfits might work at the gym, but you don’t want to put people in mind of spin class when you’re out and about on the street.
2. Resist Matching
The matching tracksuit has its place and that’s on the track field. When pairing athleisure items, you should opt for variety rather than same-same co-ords.
Styling a pair of white track pants? Opt for a contrasting top in a complimentary silhouette. Pairing a boxy sweatshirt? Why not try a more form-fitting bottom.
Even when wearing the same brand, mix it up with different colors, textures, and silhouettes. People shouldn’t be able to look at you and picture your outfit worn at the Olympics.
3. Don’t Neglect Your Feet
Let’s face it, the best thing about athleisure fashion is the comfort factor. There’s nothing better than slipping into a pair of comfy leggings and chic-ing your lookup from there. Which isn’t to say you should pull out your rattiest sneakers and be done with it! Nothing ruins an otherwise bangin’ look like manky shoes.
Instead of co-opting your running shoes, try investing in a nice pair of street-style sneakers. This will give your looks the right casual feel without risking a daggy look.
There are plenty of great sneakers on the market.
4. Layer Up
One of the best things about athleisure styling is the capacity for layering your looks. Jackets over sweatshirts over leggings, the sky really is the limit.
When layering, opt for items with varying silhouettes. Too many boxy items worn in tandem will give you the look of a bag lady. Conversely, too many form-fitting pieces will make you look like you just stepped off the treadmill.
When in doubt, let your jacket do the talking – opt for a bigger silhouette for your outer layers, getting more form-fitting as you move in.
5. Make a Statment With Color
If you’re a fan of bright colours, this point is for you! When styling your athleisure outfits, try to keep your statement colours to one item at a time. Pink leggings paired with yellow sneakers paired with a purple jacket will easily overwhelm the eye. Instead, try pairing those favoured pink leggings with paler or pastel hues to let them carry your look without competition.
When in doubt, rely on your color theory. Choose palettes whose colours complement each other. And don’t be afraid to try a monochrome look.
6. Flaunt Your Crop Tops
As our bottoms are creeping higher, so are our tops and this is a good thing! Crop tops are an athleisure staple and you needn’t be scared of them. Just remember to pair them with high-waisted bottoms and ensure your silhouette isn’t too same-samey.
Want to rock the crop top without showing the requisite skin? Here’s where layering comes in handy. Try pairing a boxy cropped t-shirt with a form-fitting camisole for a 90s throwback look.
7. Find the Perfect Sports Bra
While wearing an ordinary bra with your athleisure outfit is perfectly adequate, there are a few outfits that’ll necessitate a sports bra. The trick when choosing the perfect bra (of any type!) is knowing how much support you’ll need.
Cage bras may look rad, but if you’re a bustier girl you’ll want to make sure they support you properly. If you’re part of the itty-bitty committee, you’ll likely have more choice in this arena but don’t sacrifice function for form.
8. Don’t Skimp on Tights
Tights are a staple item when it comes to athleisure styling so you want to make sure your purchases are made for hard wear. Picking tights out of the bargain bin might seem like a valid choice, but for how much you’re going to use them you’re better off investing in a few solid items that will last.
At a pinch, your wardrobe should contain a pair of plain black tights. From there your fabric and cut choices may vary, but the color is non-negotiable. You’ll be amazed how many looks require black leggings as a base.
9. Don’t Be Afraid to Genre Mix
One of the best things about athleisure going mainstream is how many opportunities for new and varied looks that have opened up. Nowadays it’s not unusual to see athletic style pieces creeping into any occasion, dressy or otherwise.
With that in mind, you shouldn’t be afraid to genre mix. Have a flirty dress you’re looking to style for every-day wear? Why not pair it with your favorite sneakers. Looking to dress up your staple black leggings? Try styling it with some heeled boots and a bangin’ leather jacket.
The sky really is the limit when it comes to athleisure fashion.
Master Athleisure Fashion
Athleisure fashion has hit the mainstream in a big way. Cropping up in everything from street style to high fashion, this is a trend that shows no sign of slowing down. Now you know everything there is to know about styling athleisure items. With these 9 tips, you’ll be well on your way to rocking your next look.
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