FORM & FUNCTION

Viwe Ndongeni-Ntlebi

Athleisure‘s popularity is rising as the line between activewear and daywear becomes blurred

ATHLEISURE is arguably the fastest growing clothing category in fashion, driven by wellness aspirations and celebrity endorsement on social media.

The distinction between active wear and day wear is eroding, opening the door to new street wear fashion trends.

Wellness is often seen as the new status symbol, and increasingly people are showcasing their healthy lifestyles on social media.

If you want to be active and fashionable in 2022, Tamryn Brent, junior buyer at Under Armour, shares the latest athletic apparel trend.

Versatile Athleisure

The pandemic created a functional need which is now a staple in your fitness closet. Think multifunctional clothing for everyday wear. Workout apparel you can wear at the gym and run errands in offers all-day comfort, allowing the wearer to easily transition between leisure and exercise. This athleisure wear includes yoga pants, joggers and hoodies.

Prints, Baby, Prints!

It’s the era of fitfluential behavior, which means a printed bra and matching bottom set at all times! Think performance driven pieces in on trend prints and faltering silhouettes, perfect for that sunset fit fab shoot you’ve got planned for Friday. A failsafe look with matching bra and bottom not only for exercise but for a sporty fashion-forward look.

Tech, tech, tech

People are paying attention to the materials and technologies used in the production of “smart clothing”. They want sportswear that minimises sweat, keeps you cool and provides energy return during exercise.

Sustainable fabrics

The focus on sustainably sourced technical fabrics is the strongest it’s ever been. Upcycled and natural dyes create sustainable sportswear, not only for one’s personal wellness but for the health of the environment.

Elevated technology in footwear

Smart footwear developments are now mainstream. These advancements in footwear technology allow the wearer to closely track and monitor their health and wellness. The data collected during exercise can help the wearer to improve their athletic performance and reach their goals

PRINTS are big and bold. | ALEXANDRA TRAN Unsplash