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Trend alert! How to nail athleisure
16 Aug '19
LULULEMON FORREST CHASE
Trend alert! How to nail athleisure
Athleisure - it's the billion-dollar industry defining fashion in the 21st century. Here's how to nail the trend and where to get it in Perth city.
Fashion and sport. Once competing cliques, the lines between the two are now well and truly blurred thanks to a global fashion movement known as athleisure. In essence, the trend centres on gym gear that not only performs well during a workout, but looks equally good on the street – seamlessly segway from brunch, to errands or in some cases, even the office before enjoying a good sweat sesh.
Pioneered by Lululemon Athletica over 20 years ago when the brand launched its iconic yoga pants, the industry has been embraced by big name brands like Adidas and Nike and is now worth a staggering US$44 billion. By 2021, the market is forecasted to hit $355 billion with no signs of slowing. But athleisure is no longer the sole domain of high performance activewear. It’s a trend that combines style with comfort – those who wear it well effortlessly clash their leggings and racer-back tanks with every day wardrobe staples like blazers, pleated skirts and urban accessories. Here’s how to nail the trend and where to get it in Perth City.
670 Hay St, Perth, (08) 9325 2036
Why we love it: While Nike is well-loved for its performance apparel, the brand has taken its fashion nous up a notch thanks to recent footwear collaborations with fashion designer Matthew M Williams (founder of urban designer label, Alyx) and hip-hop artist, Travis Scott among others. The brand’s apparel continues to be a technical leader with fabrics that out-perform others in the gym and look slicker than most on the street.
What to buy: Nike’s Air Jordans lead the pack in fashion-forward footwear. The style has evolved thanks to design and technical upgrades making them more edgy and street smart.
75 King St, Perth, (08) 9481 7779
Why we love it: Highs and Lows is an independently operated streetwear boutique that holds its own against the big multinationals. It stocks an awesome range of footwear and apparel from both established athleisure brands (Adidas, Asics, Nike, Puma and Reebok to name a few), and up-and-coming labels (Futur and Neighbourhood among them).
What to buy: Kanye West’s Yeezy athleisure line. Sneakers in the range typical sell out immediately with fans queuing for days to get their hands on the most Instagrammed sneaker ever. Don’t fret if you miss the Yeezys – there are plenty of other highly coveted sneakers instore.
highs and lows, LULULEMON ATHLETICA
Forrest Chase, Ground Floor, Hay Street Mall, (08) 9481 3000
Why we love it: Credited with pioneering the athleisure trend and famous for gear that looks great and performs just as well. Check out the new store in Forrest Chase with garments for people to live longer, healthier, fun lives.
What to buy: In athleisure terms, there’s nothing more iconic than a good pair of black Lululemon leggings. Not only are they breathable and supportive, they look equally chic on the street teamed with trainers and a blazer.
DAVID JONES
622 Hay Street, Perth, (08) 9210 4000
Why we love it: DJs has one of the best athleisure selections in the city, including some of Australia’s most popular brands. Here you’ll find Pip Edwards’ highly coveted P.E. Nation, Jodhi Meares’ equally popular label, The Upside, and an extensive range from Running Bare.
What to buy: Anything from P.E. Nation. Pip Edwards is the Australian poster-girl for athleisure and her swimsuits, bum bags (yes – they’re a thing again), high performance leggings, bomber jackets, tracksuits and even denim will easily take you from the studio to the street.
COTTON ON
2/255 Murray St, Perth, (08) 9485 2804
Why we love it: Get the athleisure look for less. While activewear often comes with a hefty price tag, at Cotton On you can overhaul your wardrobe with the Cotton On Body range of sports crops, tops, leggings, bombers and even trainers for a fraction of the price.
What to buy: The racer-back tanks and selection of performance leggings are breathable, durable and stylish, ticking the fitness, fashion and frugal boxes.
highs and lows Athleisurewear dos and don’ts
- Do mix fabrics – clash denim and leather, for example, with high-performance sports fabrics like Lycra.
- Do mix your sportswear with regular fashion items from your wardrobe.
- Do layer and don’t be afraid to be creative.
- Do make sure your activewear is in great condition – saggy elastic looks bad in the gym and on the street.
- Don’t simply wear your gym gear – the aim is to clash regular with active apparel for an edgier, street style.
- Don’t try to imitate someone else’s look – the key is to feel comfortable, so ensure you still dress to reflect your personal style.
- Don’t forget to add accessories… they maketh the outfit, you know!
Looking for more? Read about Perth's unique shops or where to find the best sneaker shops.
- 16 Aug '19