The 1990s called. They’re wondering why we’re wearing biker shorts and fitted workout tops to class. News flash: it’s a trend that’s becoming a constant in everyone’s wardrobe rotation. Athleisure is here to stay, creating the perfect balance of tasteful style, practicality and performance for our daily lives.
I’ll never forget this past August, watching on move-in day as people were lugging their belongings up the stairs wearing everything athleisure. From jumpsuits and biker shorts to oversized tees and tennis skorts, I adored the simple yet excellent looks. I got into the athleisure game late, and I regret my lack of biker short implementation in my outfit collection last summer. But don’t worry – this trend is only just evolving in its range of influence on fashion.
“Athleisure” derives from the brilliant collaboration of athletic and leisure attire. The flattering and fitness ensemble is not only trending for its style appeal, but also for its functionality. Unlike the usual activewear everyone is used to, athleisure brings a new element that has people asking for more: the versatility component. The clothing trend has been designed to serve as workout clothing worn all day long, doubling as a fashion-forward look. It is the perfect blend of functional and put-together.
The future of athleisure looks incredibly promising, as the look is continuing to grow in not only the activewear market, but also on a broad fashion scale in general. Luckily for us Villanova students, athletic apparel stores reside down the main line in Bryn Mawr in our beloved Suburban Square, as well as the recently opened Free People Movement store in
downtown Wayne.
“Activewear is having such a moment,” Colleen Meehan, Retail and Operations Senior Manager of Addison Bay, said.
Meehan works for Addison Bay, a Philadelphia-based activewear store selling items for “girls on the go.” Looking around in society today, Meehan emphasized how individuals fill
their days with work, running errands, getting a workout in, sustaining a social life and somehow also being a successful student. This elevated activewear is expanding because it’s convenient to wear from dawn to dusk.
As a working student balancing extracurriculars and a heavy workload, time becomes a clear obstacle.
“On days when I go from the gym to class to a meeting to another meeting and so on,
it’s important to me to find an easy outfit that fits the role of cute and comfort,” sophomore
Frannie Murphy said.
Murphy emphasized her love for the workout sets from Alo and the sneaky Amazon finds that mirror the quality of Lululemon.
This high-quality and at times slightly expensive clothing trend is a useful investment I think everyone should take a chance on. With that, I would be honored to share and suggest my favorite athleisure possessions.
Alo Yoga Ribbed En Pointe Tank – Browse “Alo Lounge” to find excellent basics for your leisure collection. This high straight-neck top with ribs down the side can suit you for long walks to the farmer’s market on Saturday mornings while still looking chic.
Addison Bay Every Other Day Pullover – The turtleneck design and slightly cropped feature makes this product perfect for layering. I have become obsessed with wearing the high neck for my morning runs on cold February mornings in Bryn Mawr.
Aerie’s Real Me High Waisted Crossover Flare Legging – These are easily my favorite pair of pants to wear on walks around campus or Friday mornings when I want to dress comfortably. This specific pair of yoga pants are light on the skin with a buttery-soft feel. The crisscross detail modestly adds to the charm.
Aritzia Life Divinity Jumpsuit – This full-length jumpsuit has a low scoop back and straight line neck to achieve a simple, sophisticated look. The fabric is cotton soft and fits snug to your body. In and out of the Pilates studio, this jumpsuit will cause some head-turns.
Free People Pippa Packable Puffer Jacket – I have been infatuated by the design of this outerwear for months. This jacket is made with an oversized silhouette, perfect for layering and great for outdoor activities. This item is more than just a gym essential.
