The struggle is real when it comes to finding clothes that are both fashionable and comfortable. Most people think that when it comes to fashion, they either have to sacrifice their relaxation for the sake of feeling stylish, dress comfortably at the expense of their confidence and personal style, or spend a pretty penny in order to be both trendy and cozy. But fret no more friends! The answer to what seemed to be an endless battle is one simple word: athleisure. Athleisure is clothing derived from sportswear that can be worn for everyday activities. Not only is it casual, versatile, and comfortable, currently, it is also one of the most popular trends in fashion, and achieving this look is more attainable than ever!

  For years, it was nearly impossible to find fashion that was both trendy and homey because it was simply not on the market. Then, athleisure came into the picture. High-fashion labels such as Off-White, Yeezy, and Ralph Lauren, as well as other sportswear brands, such as Adidas, Lululemon, and Nike, began adopting designs of athletic clothes that were not subjected to the gym. Almost every celebrity, famous athlete, and social media influencer strutted the streets in athleisure, quickly making it a staple aspect of modern American fashion. With recent advances in technology, fast-fashion brands, such as H&M and Forever 21, are able to provide quality and trendy athleisure to the masses at extremely affordable prices. Additionally, athleisure became exceedingly prominent during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. People realized how convenient it was to be stylish when sweatpants, sneakers, leggings, and other activewear could be incorporated into everyday outfits and considered fashionable.

   The vast popularity of the athleisure trend is in it’s comfort and functionality for everyday wear. The possibilities are endless when it comes to styling outfits that achieve the athleisure style. Accomplishing the perfect ensemble of athleisure is quite possible for everyone regardless of your style, gender, and/or knowledge of fashion. Incorporating a balance of both sports and formal wear into outfits is the key to the versatility of the look. This fall and winter you can do so in a multitude of ways, such as pairing sneakers with jeans or dress pants, or wearing athletic bottoms like biker shorts or sweatpants with a more formal top. Millbrook senior Jordan Ward says his “favorite [athleisure] look of all time is an all grey sweatsuit paired with a tan overcoat and a trendy pair of sneakers.” In addition, accessorizing is important if you wish to dress up athleisure. Adding simple jewelry, such as a chain necklace, hoop earrings, or a cute purse to an athletic outfit, creates a look that is flexible, effortless, and chic. 

  Because of its maximum functionality, vast accessibility, inexpensive price point, and ability to allow people to not have to compromise comfort for style, athleisure has become one of the most beloved and widespread trends. It is slowly taking over modern fashion and is not going away anytime soon.