Rewind to the beginning of last decade and it was a challenge to be fit and fashionable at the same time (sorry, 2010). Fast-track to 2020 and athleisure is so good we’re wearing it off-duty too.
The premise is simple: find kit that you love to boost your motivation levels. From gym-ready co-ords to streetwear sporty jackets, this edit of activewear has everything you need for a first class workout in January and beyond.
Our fashion and beauty editor, Lisa Haynes, shows you how to style the athleisure trend for 2020 – no sweat.
Is there anything smarter than a tuxedo gym legging? How about a tuxedo co-ord? Gym gear has never looked slicker than Vaara’s statement panelling and second-skin fit kit. Made from supportive technical fabric, it’s all about performance with quick-drying, breathable fibres. Available in multiple contrast colourways (we’re digging this putty tone), you’ll look chic no matter how hard you sweat.
There’s nothing more satisfying than slipping on a hoodie post-workout – especially if it looks as good as this Koral number. Knitted in off-white and black cotton-blend bouclé, the geometric pattern is sure to elevate the rest of your fit kit. Winning points for practicality, it has a bonus handy front pocket to keep your gym pass, headphones and locker key safe.
Little wonder Think Royln’s signature totes are dubbed ‘Wingman’. If you like to take everything but the kitchen sink to the gym, this is the bag for you. With roomy proportions in quilted tech fabric, the striped trims add to the sporty vibe. Not-just-for-gym, in a cool monochromatic colourway, this white Wingman is chic enough to wear every day.
Meet the jacket that’s pretty impossible to lose in the gym changing rooms. A standard wool overcoat won’t cut it over gym kit so look to Stella McCartney’s neon green jacket for extra style points. Designed to be zipped open and slipped over your head, the quilted shell retains heat, while the sides can be unzipped to keep you cool – clever. Layer it over leggings and bundle up on the way to Pilates class.
Proof that athleisure can be more suited to catwalk than body pump class. This Nike training sweater fuses fashion and fitness so it easily doubles up for either wardrobe occasion. Punctuated with statement funnel neck and lattice details to the cuffs and neckline, it’s minimalist sportswear that’s made to be seen outside the four walls of your fitness studio.
Want a trainer that’s technical enough for the gym but cool enough to wear to the pub? Make a dash for designer Alexander Wang’s collab with Adidas Originals. The New York king of effortless streetwear has given these Turnout trainers a cool spin with patterned laces and mesh overlay. Bridging the gap between gym and off-duty, they’re almost too good to wear on a treadmill.
Finally, a designer swimsuit that you can actually swim in. Groundbreaking. House of Holland has teamed up with Speedo to deliver performance swimwear, but with major personality. Hit the pool (or waves) in this lime swimsuit, or try the bikini version. The slinky cross back statement feature means there’s no chance of losing your straps in the water.
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