The Red-Hot Athleisure Trend
The exciting athleisure trend isn’t taking a rest any time soon, having led to a number of top brands and retailers unveiling individual collections recently, and even making it into the dictionary. What more evidence do we need that there’re no indications of it losing steam?
The sport-leisure style is ranked as the largest category in terms of sneaker space in the USA, beating out even footwear orientated towards optimising performance. The demands for the former style enjoyed a surge of 17% in 2017, jumping to US$9.6 billion in sales, contrasting sharply with the decrease in sales of performance apparel, 10%, or US$7.4 billion. Sales of sneakers inspired by running jumped by 39%, and so-called casual athletic styles rose by 24%, driving growth in 2017.
All these numbers may make you feel like you’re reviewing AFL betting odds, but if you’re serious about fashion, they’re numbers you need to know!
The Bubble’s Not Bursting
The Senior Sports Industry Advisor at one of the largest market research companies in the world, NPD Group, Matt Powell, has stated that the athleisure trend will continue for a while yet. He said that this style is ruling the runway, and the lines between athletic and casual shoes, for example, are starting to blur.
The eagerness for athleisure items is coming from brands and retailers both inside and outside of what could be termed the more traditional athletic space. For instance, Coach, the upscale label for accessories and handbags, is pursuing an expansion of its sport category says Victor Luis, Chief Executive Officer, CEO, of its parent company, Tapestry.
Bring Out the Bike Shorts
We all enjoyed the rise in popularity of incredibly comfortable seamless leggings, but taking some length off is going to be fun too! Colourful shorts are becoming de rigueur for the gym, long bike rides, and yoga bunnies who are sick of the possibility of flashing their fellow down-doggers.
Ring In the Retro Stripes
We have athleisure to thank for taking us back to some of the highest points in fashion, with looks inspired by the 1970s taking off big-time. Look out for retro stripes being slapped all over your go-to pieces, ranging from leggings and track shorts right on through to hoodies and tees.
Sport-Leisure Sneakers
Whether you’re still enjoying the introduction of metallic and millennial pink footwear or have started expanding your shoe collection, no self-respecting athleisure devotee can do without a good pair of sneakers. Combine chic with support and hit the streets.
Strappy Back Pieces Are All the Rage
If you’ve been trying to ferret out a way to show off your toned yoga back, now’s your chance. From sexy sports bras to bodysuits that reveal just what they should, you won’t have any trouble finding a strappy-back piece.
Cut Your Sweatshirts in Half
There is nothing as comforting as a good old sweatshirt, and by trimming its hems you can make it a distinct fashion item nowadays too. Cropped sweatshirts paired with bike shorts or denim cut-offs are a look to aim for, and patterns and prints or plain fabric can help you fit your look in to whatever the occasion demands.