Athleisure

Okay ladies, listen up! This is a fun post and we are talking all about a trend that you NEED to know about. I’m sure that you’ve heard the buzz word “Athleisure” a lot lately and are probably wondering what in the heck that even means. Well today we are taking our first swing at breaking down the trend and how it’s applicable for us busy mamas! First, I filmed an ENTIRE video for you guys about it….whoop! I went through all of the basics that you need and styled 5 outfits for you! It’s linked below and is live on my YouTube channel too. But I’m also breaking it down here too, so here we go…

Athleisure is the marriage of the words “athletic” and “leisure.” Duh, right?! I’m sure you’ve figured as much. Athleisure is a term used to describe clothing or an outfit that you’d wear when you’re not necessarily going to the gym but you also want to be comfortable and wear athletic type clothes…”Sporty Chic” if you will! This trend definitely doesn’t allow for the sloppy rolled out of bed look and instead is focused on clean lines, graphic prints, fabric textures and an overall effortlessly chic and polished athletic look. I think that it’s a really really easy look to pull together, a trend that all moms should embrace and you can also make most of your athleisure pieces work double duty in your closet. Here’s how…

First, a bit of house keeping. Ladies, let’s throw these away. I admittedly had about 15 pairs of these Nike shorts circa 2010 and they just aren’t okay. They do women NO favors, adding bulk in areas that typically don’t need any bulk. I think that we can call it a day and donate these puppies (along with all of your college t-shirts)…

There are 5 basic pieces that I think you should focus on to achieve a cool and comfortable Athleisure look, read more about each here:

Shoes! IT’S ALL ABOUT THE SHOES! I would definitely say that the kicks are what really define an Athleisure look. They should be cool, comfy sneakers that aren’t meant to be worn in the gym…think Converse, Stan Smiths, or Nike Dunks. This is one of the biggest perks of this trend, wearing sneakers!!!! Look for style details like metallic, suede or unusual colors. Want to see the completely unreasonable pair of Athleisure sneakers that I’m totally lusting over? See HERE.

Puma Sneakers | Black Nikes | Converse | New Balance | Nike Hidden Wedge Sneaker (only in black now)

My favorite sneakers:

2. Bras. So this one is a matter of preference. Since you likely aren’t going to the gym and don’t necessarily need the performance factor, you have a few options. I am loving the emergence of the bralette and think that it fits in perfectly with the athleisure trend. Wear them with v-neck tees, racerback tanks or muscle shirts for just a hint of unexpected sex-ay.

If you want more support, sports bras have come a long long way. Depending on my mood I’m equally as likely to opt for a bralette or a sports bra. For Athleisure wear, I usually go for a fun sports bra with some trend details. Look for fun strappy back details, mesh inserts or a trendy print. The one below has a cute sheer panel in the back and is actually really supportive.

Bralettes:

Sports Bras:

3. Tops, Tanks & Tees…oh my! So many options here! You can go for for a graphic athletic tank (I always love what Nike does), a great racerback tank cut in at the shoulders, or an easy slouchy t-shirt. Depending on what bottoms you wear, you probably already have most of these options in your closet and these are also great pieces that function in other looks completely.

Athletic Tank | Cotton Tank | V-Neck Slouchy T-Shirt

My Favorite Tops:

4. Bottoms. Of course you guys know that tights and athleisure go hand in hand. My favorite basic black tight is the Zella Live In Legging, but also think about adding a printed tight to your line up, as well as a jogger pant for a more polished look. I always opt for a COMPRESSION legging, as the weave of the fabric tends to hold it’s shape better and also nip and tuck and flatter the best. All three options can be paired with everything we talked about before, just depends on what you feel like that day. Also, if any of you are postpartum or just aren’t crazy about your lower mid-section…THESE high rise compression tights legit work miracles.

Best Bottoms:

5. Top Layer. As the weather cools off and it’s necessary to layer, here are a few ideas! I love the Nike track jacket with the mesh upper sleeve…lots of great design details, but still comfortable and FUN! Also, you can’t really go wrong with a tailored black or ivory North Face pullover. Other options include a sleek black puffer vest or a tunic cardigan!

There are tons of full looks in the YouTube video, but here are a few (VERY EASY) ways to pull everything together. Add a pair of RayBans, your go-to neutral crossbody bag and you have a comfy, laid back, but still stylish look!

As the weather cools off, throw a tunic cardigan or washed denim jacket over this tank and you have an outfit that will carry you through Fall…

This is definitely more of an athletic look and one that I would tend to wear on the weekends…Starbucks run, grocery store, etc. I love this with a mesh jacket or puffer jacket over it for cooler temps…

Nike Tank | Compression Tights | Black Sneakers | White Sneakers

If you want to explore all of my athleisure favorites, here are a few brands that I think totally get it right. They all offer flattering, FUN, and comfortable options for moms on the go that don’t want to sacrifice style.

Carbon 38 | Nike Women |Zella | Bandier

So, what do you think? Are you on board with Athleisure?? I’m fully signed up and can’t wait to style it for Fall!