Where to shop for this fashion trend that balances style with comfort
Photo courtesy of Perfect Moment
There once was a time where “gym clothes” meant worn out sweatpants or a T-shirt from your university days. But thanks to style stars such as Rihanna and Gigi Hadid, sporting active wear at non exercise-related occasions is now en vogue. The trend has even permeated into the couture world, making appearances in the form of sporty harness details at Atelier Versace and sneakers at Chanel and Dior. Tracksuits and varsity jackets have also popped up at the Spring runways of Chloé, and let’s not forget Rag & Bone and Alexander Wang, the NYC brands that started it all with their model-off-duty looks.
However, getting on board with the athleisure trend doesn’t mean merely putting on any sports brand from your closet. There’s a whole wide world of designers capitalising on clothing that can easily transition from fitness centre to fancy restaurant. We’ve rounded up athleisure labels that expertly toe the line between style and comfort.
Perfect Moment
Photo courtesy of Perfect Moment
Despite its origins in Chamonix, a skiing paradise in France, Perfect Moment is all about the surfer's aesthetic. The brand, founded by Hong Kong-based entrepreneur Jane Gottschalk, specialises in colourful rashsuits and vests crafted in neoprene. This remarkably stretch-resistant material also retains bodily warmth. Its swimwear collection is equally funtional — the UV and chlorine-resistant Nordic Swimsuit a prime example. There's also a line up of nylon-blend sports bras and leggings — in solid hues and covered in trendy block letters — for your daily workout needs.
The Perfect Moment summer collection is available at Lane Crawford.
Koral
Photo courtesy of Koral
Koral offers a premium range of athletic apparel made with high tech fabrics, such as the durable Silky Tencel fabric and sturdy high compression jacquard. Worthy investment pieces include draped muscle tanks and laser-cut sports bras.
Tory Sport
Photo courtesy of Tory Burch
Yes, the queen of prep has gone sporty. This athletic extension of the Tory Burch brand has been lauded as a major rival to Lululemon, and its chic and colourful wares are made for transitioning from running to brunching.
Solow
Photo courtesy of Solow
From the abundance of monochromatic designs with heavy cut outs, it’s quite obvious that Solow is made with the cool girl in mind. These abstract printed separates can easily be refashioned for a night out. The facet and racerback sports bras will look just as great with a high-waisted skirt as a pair of leggings.
Superga
Photo courtesy of Superga
White sneakers are enjoying a major comeback, and it’s easy to see why: this simplistic footwear staple looks good with anything from party dresses to T-shirts jeans, making them a big hit among the style set that’s always on the go. Italian brand Superga sells a classic iteration that is both practical and chic.
AEANCE
Photo courtesy of AEANCE
Dedicated to performance and functionality, AEANCE has opted to manufacture its textiles within Europe. The pieces made with Merino wool and high quality synthetics are ideal for exercising, but they will also look smart in everyday wear.