Fit Style
I mentioned before that, for a fit look, comfort is one of the most important elements of street style.
That is why our pyjamas and fitness clothes have become essentials on the street. The biggest reason fitness clothes have entered street fashion is that they don’t restrict our movement. And because they are made from natural fibres, they can breathe and wick away sweat.
Image: An athleisure outfit on the street with a blue crop top, cycling shorts and white trainers (representative image) — John Benson from Madison WI, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0
In recent years, with their different cuts and prints, these clothes have taken on a much more feminine look, which is why we have started wearing them often in nightclubs too. So, with their effortlessly achieved femininity, they quickly became essentials for us women. The fitness clothes we see in cinemas, shopping centres and cafés in winter, worn under bomber jackets, will add colour to the streets in summer too — as well as to beach parties and seaside promenades.
I am grateful for the sheer comfort that has brought clothes we were used to seeing at the gym into our daily lives. Because after stressful, busy working hours, when I go out to run errands, they have become one of the only outfits I can put on without thinking.
Stylish, comfortable and fit!
High-waisted leggings in particular are my favourites. I also love neon seamless bralettes with criss-cross straps that leave the back bare, and asymmetric-cut tops.
If comfort is your choice in street style, what’s your favourite?
Fit style and athleisure: sportswear on the street
Bringing sportswear into everyday life is part of the trend known in the fashion world as “athleisure”. Pieces such as leggings, bralettes and bomber jackets no longer stay only in the gym; they also accompany us to the café, shopping or on a walk around the city. Fit style, meanwhile, aims to make the outfit look polished while keeping this comfort.
When putting together a fit style outfit
- Add one smart piece: A long coat or a bomber over high-waisted leggings makes the look street-ready.
- Balance the colours: If you’re wearing a neon top, keep the bottom half simple.
- Pay attention to fabric: Breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics keep you comfortable all day.
- Don’t forget the shoes: A clean pair of trainers pulls the outfit together.
This relaxed line is also a practical solution for anyone who wants to build a wardrobe they can put on without thinking and head out in after a busy day. Choosing fit style pieces in a few basic colours lets you match them with each other easily.
We have gathered ways to look stylish during workouts too in our article on the rules for looking good at the gym. For the origins and development of the trend, the athleisure entry on Wikipedia is well worth a read.