From Lecture to Lifting: Athleisure
The Athleisure Trend
Article by Kortnie Franzen, Photos by Mackenzie Miller
There’s no doubt that being a college student can be stressful. Finding a balance between your social life and school while still figuring out how to “adult” can often feel impossible. With that in mind, get excited to meet your new best friend: athleisure.
What is Athleisure?
Athleisure has become more than simply throwing on a pair of leggings with a tank top and calling it a day. Instead, it’s a lifestyle women of all ages are diving into. Throughout the past decade, clothing brands have gone above and beyond to curate the cutest, comfiest, most versatile pieces that are appropriate for any occasion. By putting some thought and minimal effort into your outfit, long school days are automatically made easier. The days of having to choose between feeling stylish or being comfortable are over. Athleisure gives you the best of both worlds! From yoga pants that look like classy trousers and long sleeve tops that are breathable and beautiful to Outdoor Voices’ recreational “Exercise Dress,” the hassle from class to gym is nonexistent!
Why Athleisure?
Working out isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but staying active keeps you feeling good and energized for all that college throws at you! Whether it’s running, Zumba, or walking your dog around the neighborhood, there’s something for everyone! Exercising causes our bodies to release endorphins, making us less stressed and truly revitalized. Who wouldn’t want to blow some exam steam off? With implementing athleisure into your wardrobe, going straight from lecture or brunch with the girls to the gym is easier than ever. You’re already dressed to work out, so might as well!
Styling Tips:
Now that we’re familiar with the wonder that is athleisure, here are a few key suggestions on what pieces to implement into your wardrobe!
Tennis Skirts: An easy way to elevate your casual look to a more intentional and feminine one. A sports skirt can drastically change an outfit, as opposed to shorts or leggings. Experiment with venturing into more feminine athletic wear like a skort this spring!
Outdoor Voices’ Exercise Dress: With a wide variety of patterns, this dress is hands-down essential to your wardrobe. Not only is it extremely breathable to work out in, it’s also flattering to all body types!
Vibrant Leggings: Although our trusty black pair of leggings are reliable, don’t be afraid to add a pop of color! Shades such as lavender or forest green can vamp up an entire look while still feeling casual.
Biker Shorts: Trending lately, the comeback of biker shorts is a unique way to spice up your style comfortably. We’ve seen icons from Princess Diana to Hailey Baldwin channel their sporty side with this piece, and we are all for the biker-chic attire.
More than ever before, brands are designing versatile essentials that will take a busy student from biology lab to working on those hammies without the need to change. It’s time to switch out your grey sweatpants and make room for some red-hot leggings! Time is of the essence in college, and athleisure is just the life hack you’ve been waiting for.