I think there is big misconception about what exactly Athleisure means. Wikipedia defines it as “a trend in fashion in which clothing designed for workouts and other athletic activities is worn in other settings.” It’s the “other settings” that have gotten people confused. We have all seen the photos of celebrities, music artists, and personalities wearing full-on athletic gear with heels going out to dinner or to an event. I cannot pull that off in my wildest dreams and, honestly, I do not even think it looks right. There is something off about bike shorts and a blazer or a track suit and high heels. Just my opinion though. Don’t get me wrong, I love looking at photos of trendy clothing, high fashion, and runway looks, but I need to be realistic about what clothing works for me and my life.
I am a huge fan of Athleisure dressing as I define it to be. In my opinion, Athleisure is a way of dressing yourself comfortably yet stylish, in a manner appropriate for daily life. It’s crucial for days when I am busy walking around town fulfilling a list of errands, shopping for clients, managing the children’s lives and much more. I always like to look good and put together even when I am running around. It’s important to me. I feel better about myself and I have a better day when I do.
So, let me break down what I am talking about with specifics. When I have an Athleisure day, the first thing I do is think of a color palette I want to wear that day. For me, the weather that day and my mood usually provides me with some guidance on which palette to choose from. I have a great selection of running pants. My favorite for fit and comfort are made by Lululemon. Their ‘Tight Stuff Tight” pants fit like a glove and hold everything in nice and comfortably. I have them in many colors like, forest green, burgundy, black, navy blue, red, and purple. After choosing a color, I select a sweater of similar color. Tone on tone when wearing Athleisure make the look more sophisticated. Right now the weather is getting cold and a sweater looks great over these pants.
Shoes…..ok, here is the hard part. Try not to wear a real running sneaker with this look. I much prefer a sneaker with a small platform in suede or leather. Keep it clean with simple colors like white, gray, or cream. Puma, Vans, UGG, Converse, and Steven Madden all make affordable pairs you can buy in different colors. If you feel like splurging, buy a pair of Alexander McQueen’s sneaker line. I cannot tell you how much I love his sneakers with this look but it’s super expensive. I don’t have a pair yet but maybe a Christmas present for myself this year?!?! I am also a huge fan of warm UGG’s with this look or also any suede or leather high boots. So chic.
Now that your Athleisure outfit is complete, you need a jacket in this cold weather. Luckily this look allows for pretty much any type of jacket or coat. Stay warm in a puffer jacket, look cool in leather bomber, throw over your wool coat for more elegance, put on a military or sailor style jacket, or, if you are feeling furry, a faux or real fur jacket. All of these options would look fabulous!!
Some companies have made Athleisure shopping very simple. Below are three companies to check out:
www.lululemon.com
www.bandier.com
www.carbon38.com
HAPPY SHOPPING, EVERYONE!!
