Fashion is constantly changing and most people wouldn't believe it, but a lot of today's fashion is derived from the world of athletics. Want to make your wardrobe a little more sporty? Below are four ways sports have changed, and are continuing to change, modern fashion.
Related: 4 Sports and Their Respective Fashion Stereotypes
The Growth of “Athleisure”
Today, the look of someone who could be headed to the gym or to practice is frequently sported by people just going about their day–and people are even starting to fit athletic wear into their work wardrobe! Commonly known as “athleisure,” comfortable, trendy outfits with a sporty twist have become more and more popular in recent years. A nice tank top, a sleek hoodie, and sturdy yoga pants can be seen, and accepted, at many places of work, leisure, and everywhere in between nowadays, and companies are taking note. Take Lululemon for example. The company has one of the largest popular yoga sections, and yet, tons of people are buying their product for everyday wear and not for exercise at all. Some of the most prominent celebrities, the Kardashians and Jenners, are seen rocking “Athleisure” almost every day. See Kendall Jenner to the left.
Related: Female Warpaint: The Reclamation of Makeup
90s Influence
It's back! The popular 1990s crop tops, colorful windbreakers, flashy outfits, and leggings are right back in style. With top companies like Nike and Adidas picking up on this, everyone is starting to adopt these styles again. Just take a look at Hailey Bieber rocking a color block windbreaker as a dress.
Technology In Clothing
Improving competition means better competition clothing. With that being said, technology has done an incredible job of keeping up and becoming mainstream. Gear like customized shoes and Dri-Fit technology have become the norm when originally they were designed for top athletes. Smart clothing is also coming out to the public, allowing its wearers to track how they move and make recommendations for the user. To the left, we have a picture of model and influencer, Bella Hadid, rocking the Dri-Fit.
Streetwear
Streetwear is becoming increasingly popular, and with that, it is becoming more unisex. Women are wearing joggers, men are wearing leggings and spandex, and clothing is being pushed out in neutral colors to accommodate all genders and sizes. Shia LeBouf is a celebrity constantly being seen out wearing leggings for men.
Athletics isn't just a game, and it shows in the fashion industry athletes are becoming a driving force behind tons of trends the public sees in everyday life. The designs and technology being developed for athletes have had a trickle-down effect, and now are all the rage for everyday wear and new trends. Watch what your favorite athlete role models are wearing, and you just might be able to guess the next trend!
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* Originally published on August 1, 2022, by Claire Borman