Athleisure

Athleisure learning in comfort

As a student, it can be hard to choose between style and comfort. But some are finding a balance: Athleisure.

“[I describe my style as] sporty, a little bit of comfort with a little bit of street fashion,” senior Eli Loney said. “The comfort [of athleisure] combined with the normality of it makes it an easy go-to for when you’re getting ready in the morning.”

comfort is also a big factor for seniors Emily Stone and Makenzie Brosa, who also wear athleisure.

“I think it’s comfortable,” Stone said. “[I usually wear] leggings and tennis shoes.” Along with comfort, convenience and normality are other reasons athleisure has become popular, especially among high school students.

“People wear it at school because they just want to feel comfortable and I work out after school, so it’s just easier.” Brosa said. Sophomore Jasmine Brixius agreed convenience is part of the reason she wears athletic clothes.

“Sometimes I’ll dress up nice, but if I’m kind of being lazy I’ll wear athletic clothes,” Brixius said. “I feel like it kind of depends on the day.”

Brixius described how she likes to wear preppy clothes along with athleisure. “I like to shop at Forever 21,” Brixius said. “I like to wear jeans and a nice T-shirt.” For others, only certain events change their day-to-day style. These included religious services, game days, and award ceremonies. “Usually I only wear preppy clothes when the coach is like, you have to dress up nice today.” Brosa explained.

“[I’ll wear nicer clothes] if it’s an event where I’m presenting myself in a professional manner.” Loney said.

Athlesiure can be about more than just comfort and functionality, though. For Loney, it’s a way to connect with sports teams like KU, the Chicago Blackhawks and Cubs. For Stone, wearing her cross country tennis shoes connects her to her sport.

While Athleisure may be frowned upon by some for being too informal, it’s a type of style nonetheless. “I think that’s what makes style awesome, when somebody wears something that is themselves.” Loney said.

“I say you kind of have to be confident to wear [athleisure] because I feel like some people get judged,” Brixius said. “You have to be yourself to wear athletic clothes.”