Active Fashion: The Editorial – Part II

The beauty of today’s activewear trends is their transitional qualities, made possible by the amazing array of technical fabrics that mimic fabrics of our daily casual and formal wardrobes. I spend most of my free time in some sort of activewear, especially if I am out running errands, hanging out at home, and even sometimes out for happy hour.

Last week’s focus was on the business casual realm, and this week’s focus is one step down, into casual. More specifically, how to style a layered casual look. I love playing with different lengths when it comes to mixing in active trends. If you stick to structured and fitted outer layers, it tends to give you that “fresh out of the studio” look, instead of the active inspired look you’re probably aiming for.

I love playing with different lengths and fits when it comes to mixing in active trends. If you stick to fitted pieces from head to toe, it tends to look a little less casual and more studio ready. Adding in a bra or tank with technical details under a loose or low cut top adds an element of depth and gives it that transitional feel you’re aiming for. Additionally, I am always searching for sweatshirts and pullovers with a special or edgy touch that will give me a boost of glam to an otherwise super casual piece.

This sweatshirt from Storets immediately captured my heart with the bow details! I am a sucker for pretty much anything with a bow, given my obvious obsession with all things Hello Kitty. It’s a piece that can really be taken anywhere: tuck it into a wool pencil skirt, my high waisted skinny jeans, and over a long t-shirt and leggings.

So, what’s the secret to mastering the casual athleisure look? These are the two most important tips:

Layers. Hints of technical fabrics among more street friendly styles give it a polished feel. I like to keep the majority of my technical fabrics on the inner layers unless it’s a super structured or statement piece of outerwear (think scuba material!). My favorite pieces to layer under jackets, t-shirts, or tuck into skirts are the Alo Wanderer Long Sleeve, Carbon38xJonathan Simkhai Lodola Tank, Michi Bionic Bra. Some great statement pieces for outerwear are this amazing Fenty-esque bomber from Forever21, and the Sophisticated Draped Jacket by Alala. I love layering my leather jackets over crop tops and high waisted leggings, and this BB Dakota one from Rent the Runway was the perfect addition to my weekend wardrobe from the gym to drinks with friends!
When you’re adding leggings into the mix, make sure your tops are a little longer to add more dimension and keep it from looking like you just got back from the studio. Additionally, exciting details like asymmetrical hemlines and luxe fabrics make your leggings look even sleeker! Some of my most paired tops are this H&M flouncy top, this H&M Trumpet Sleeve V-Neck, Forever21 Plunging Strappy Tee (only $15 right now!), and this showstopper Mesh Dress With Frill Hem, from ASOS.