Make Use Of The Athleisure Trend To Start Running
By: Dylan Chia
Tags: Exercise, Fashion, Running, Athleisure, Fitness

Photo by Chander R from Unsplash

The term “athleisure” is a combination of the words “athletics” and “leisure” and describes how activewear is now worn as casual, everyday wear. While it’s by no means a groundbreaking trend, it’s still definitely one to take note of.

In general, the athleisure trend is a fashion trend like many others before it, where certain outfits or looks are deemed “stylish” for a specific time period. However, it still stands out because of how you can take advantage of it, and also because of the differences between athleisure and other fashion trends.

Unlike trends such as ripped jeans or bucket hats, this trend can actually benefit you in more ways than one. In addition to giving you that confidence boost from getting a new wardrobe, it can also inspire you to start exercising since you basically already have the attire for it anyway. Essentially, it’s like killing two birds with one stone. Or like having one outfit for two purposes. Same difference, really.

So what exactly does the athleisure trend comprise of? A typical outfit, at its base, comprises simply of — a top, bottoms, and shoes, excluding accessories of course. Hence, we can analyse each component and evaluate its viability when it comes to both style and functionality.

We’ll start with the shoes, possibly the most useful out of the listed items. The shoes don't have to be anything too expensive or from a name brand, simply go with what you’re familiar with in a colour that suits your preferences. The design of most shoes are pretty similar as well, so you can focus on the performance capabilities, such as the support and fit of the shoe. While it might not be in the same category as sneakers, it’s still able to get the job done. An article by TheUpcoming also mentions this trend in an article to further elaborate on this point.

Photo by Joshua Coleman from Unsplash

Next, we have the top. For this, there are several options: from tank tops to jerseys to simple breathable tees, the list goes on. It’s simple enough to just slip one over your head if you’re unsure of what to wear for casual occasions, as these tops generally match well with most other attire, including non-athleisure-related clothing.

Photo by Fachry Zella Devandra from Unsplash

For the bottoms, it’s also an “anything goes” situation, as there are many options to choose from. Short shorts are trending for both males and females (although the length varies for both), so a pair of light exercise shorts can help complement your style while helping you stay comfortable. Other bottoms such as sweatpants and joggers are also suitable for both needs so you’ll be spoilt for choice when styling for this look. Just make sure that they fit the aesthetic (and your look) and you’re good to go.

Photo by Clem Onojeghuo from Unsplash

Additionally, while the trend has been around for a couple of years, it’s still not showing signs of a decline. According to Forbes, consumer patterns indicate that the trend would continue into 2021, so if you want to capitalise on this trend, now’s a good a time as any to start.

The best part is, even when the trend does experience a decline, you can still make the most out of those outfits. After all, they can revert to their base use as running attire, and can even be good pyjamas once it’s served that purpose.

In the end, this is just a suggestion to encourage you to start running. I mean, since you already look the part, why not take it a step further and act the part?