OFM Style: A Look into Fab Fit Athleisure

Where are we headed with style and what we wear? Is athleisure here to stay or fading into bargain bins? 

Let’s face it: We are all guilty of wearing the baggy jumper and sweatpants out and about. We have even dolled it up a bit, with the occasional graphic tee and some joggers. Even with all the clothing options we have to wear, comfort is king.

In recent years, the term “athleisure,” a mixture of “athletic” and “leisure,” took off. Originating in the 70s and skyrocketing in popularity circa 2018, athleisure refers to the simple and functional form of athletic wear and turning it into leisure or fashion wear.  It can be a little odd, but if the Juicy Couture sweatsuits of yesteryear are any indication of what the future would hold, then it’s no surprise the American public love comfort and looks.

Many brands have taken full advantage and capitalized on the trend, which is becoming a staple around the world due to its performance and comfort. For example, Nike has continually designed running shoes that can be worn for their intended purpose or even around the office, introducing colorways and silhouettes that complete outfits without sacrificing performance. Nike, however, is not solely focused on blurring the lines of fashion but has upped their design game for their athletic wear, even offering an expanded size range for people who want to wear something comfortable for fun or fit activities.

As big as it is, Nike does not hold the monopoly on athleisure. Adidas, known for its own footwear and athletic wear, has recently gotten into the elevated fashion game using design techniques and  repurposing silhouettes and shapes seen on the runway, even going so far as to partner up with Beyoncé and reintroducing her Ivy Park line—a partnership match made in chiffon heaven, showing that you don’t have to relinquish fashion to be comfortable. With the two biggest athletic wear producers in the world making capital gains in athleisure, smaller ventures have even seen some great success.

The brand Skims also pounced on the chance to get people to wear comfortable and fashion-forward garments with little-to-no corporate assistance, as Skims is backed by none other than Kim Kardashian herself. The brand not only focuses on athleisure clothing, but undergarments as well. They are complexly woven into her clothing line, and what better thing to lounge around your house in than your underwear?

I believe we are going to see the continued growth of athleisure. A core detail is that athleisure is making companies money, and people love to look effortless. Especially with the summer months coming soon, for the time being, the “fab fit” look of athleisure is here to stay. 

There are many things we can look toward in the future, including the evolution of the way we wear comfort and the way we perform in it. Our obsession with athletic leisure does not seem to be slowing down, but that is not stopping designers and fashion brands from creating things that look elevated without the compromise.