The rise of athleisure has become more than just yoga pants and sneakers popping up outside of the gym. This blend of style and sport has become one of the biggest trends influencing the fashion industry and to call it a trend may not even be appropriate anymore as lifestyle-focused activewear has deeply impacted the fashion culture.
Back in 2011 when I lived in the Bay Area, I would spot Lululemon-wearing guys and gals out being social, shopping and dining. As someone that just moved from New York City, this seemed so puzzling to me at the time. However, fast-forward to early 2016 (and me being back in the city that never sleeps), people from coast to coast were choosing a more comfortable way of dressing. Now, in 2017, this sizable shift in consumer demand has forced formalwear to become more casual, functional and relaxed. Moreover, it seems like every major brand has listened to the people and has created some sort of athleisure-inspired collection.
If you’ve been following along, you already know that I have a strong affinity for the contemporary brand Bailey 44. So, when they announced their ‘SuperLuxe Fleece‘ collection as part of their spring/summer line, it was like hitting the jackpot for me. This ‘wear-everywhere fabric’ claims to be moveable, breathable and flattering and it actually delivers on its promise. Its super soft, luxurious feel is one that you’ll want to wear all day and night (like even to bed).
Keeping with these luxury feels, I styled this fleece, knee-length skirt with tie-around sweatshirt detail with my new pair of Chanel kicks (another brand that has entered the athleisure game and did not disappoint when it comes to comfort). I chose to top these pieces of pure comfort with an off-the-shoulder peasant top by Nicole Miller because the mix was a bit unpredictable, and then added one of the hottest handbags on the market right now by Loewe (here is how it is pronounced just in case you accidentally Americanize it at first, like I did). You can expect to see these puzzle bags pop up in your Instagram feed a lot this spring.
Below you can see more of this luxury approach to athleisure, as well some additional styling options.
Outfit details: Top, Nicole Miller // Skirt, Bailey 44 // Sneakers, Chanel (found at Nordstrom in Aventura) // Sunglasses, Celine // Puzzle Bag, Loewe
This post was made in collaboration with Bailey 44, however, opinions are my own.
Photos by www.shkphoto.com
Loved reading this post and am impressed with your insightful and analytical writing style – not something I see much with fashion bloggers. I have a very similar post on athleisure going live tomorrow. But the idea of lux-leisure gave me an aha moment! Great job!