For the past few years, the term “athleisure” has been a popular word in the fashion industry, being showcased in the apparel or activewear sections at various brick and mortar stores and online retailers. It sounds complicated, but It basically means an outfit that is functional enough to wear to the gym or to some leisurely activity, yet stylish enough to go about your day without a wardrobe change.
Many active wear brands such as Nike, Adidas and Under Armour have adjusted their collections to have a simpler color palette with classic lines to fit the athleisure movement. Even if you aren’t a workout fanatic, it’s a way to bring style into comfortable, casual wear-even sophisticated enough to sport at the office. Here are three on-trend athleisure looks to fit your workout and daily routine.
From a Run to Running Errands
A printed bomber jacket (this one will be great for spring/summer) is a perfect addition to any gym look and has a relaxed fit so it can be worn all day, available at Macy’s, Lehigh Valley Mall. Wear it with navy performance leggings and a striped navy sports bra, by New Balance for J.Crew, available at J.Crew Lehigh Valley Mall. A white crewneck tee nicely balances out the proportions, available at shop.nordstrom.com. To accessorize the look, I pair it with cool grey running sneakers, which will go with everything, even jeans, available at ladyfootlocker.com, a metallic silver baseball hat and this bright sunset wave bucket bag (a steal under $50), by French Connection, found at Nordstrom Rack, Allentown.
From Dumbbells to Drinks
The best workout pants, by far, for style, function and fit are these hi-rise black mesh cut out leggings available at Lululemon Athletica Lehigh Valley Mall. They are a sleek look for the gym and for meeting up with friends later on (I have had mine since they originally came out. I stalked the website until they were finally back in stock, and they are the best). Wear them with this modern black mock-neck cropped tank also by Lululemon Athletica. Throw on this flowy blush drape front jacket, available at Nordstrom Rack, Allentown. Accessorize this look with black suede slip on sneakers, available at dsw.com and this fun leopard-print shopper with pouch, available at hm.com.
From Afternoon Yoga to At-Work
When it comes to athleisure in the workplace, you really have to be mindful of your professionalism, unless you work in a very casual environment. You can literally kick off these black patent leather pumps and hang up this timeless camo green bomber jacket, found at anntaylor.com, right before your yoga class begins. These black city pants are perfect for your vinyasa and the office because of their roomy fit and elevated tuxedo-like side detail. Pair them with this breathable grey short sleeve tee, available at shop.lululemon.com, and this nude structured leather tote, available at banana republic, Center Valley, and you’re work to workout ready.
My 6 Stay-Fresh Essentials
I typically start my day at the gym or go mid-afternoon, so showering isn’t always an option (I know it’s kind of gross but we all do it). I have linked a few of my tried-and-true essentials that I always have in my gym bag. These products get me through the day and help me feel rejuvenated after a moderate workout.
Dry Shampoo by Batiste: This takes the oil right out of my hair and adds some body.
Hair Spray by Big, Sexy, Hair: The right amount of hold for maintaining my short style.
Deodorant Cream by Urban Oreganics: A soft, non-toxic underarm cream for post exercise.
Body/Face Wipes by Sweat Cosmetics: This is perfect to remove sweat and freshen up skin.
Body Oil Spray by Philosophy: A light moisturizing spray with a clean, soapy scent.
About the Author
Carrie Mehl is a fashion and style specialist. Originally going to school for fashion, Carrie has always had a deep appreciation for design and style in which she incorporates into her daily life.
She has had an extensive career in marketing management, focusing specifically on creative strategy, branding and digital. Carrie has applied her vision and expertise in a variety of industries from finance to media. Within all of her roles, she has been fortunate enough to sharpen her knowledge in many areas such as styling, creative direction and content development. She has led projects for national companies, from wardrobe styling to designing a 20,000+ square-foot wellness center.
Her goal is to provide styling tips for everyone, discuss the application of designer trends and marry the world of fashion into functional lifestyle.
