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Sports Luxe & Athleisure: Leggings Are Pants

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Carthage chapter.

Sports luxe, or athleisure, is a new fashion trend that combines comfort and style. This trend, by definition, is when clothing designed for athletic activities is worn outside of the gym, such as at work, school or other casual settings. Ultimately, comfort is key when it comes to this trend. The idea that you can be comfortable and fashion-forward all at once is why it has become so popular. Clothing pieces such as leggings and yoga pants are being paired with dresses or fancy tops to achieve a cute and functional look. Who says you can’t dress up what you wear to your Pilates class?

This trend was born when yoga pants first became popular. Women started wearing yoga pants to different occasions in many different settings without feeling the need to change after a workout. Convenience is the magic word because there was no longer a need to bring a change of clothes once you’re done at the gym. Many companies have formed that just specialize in the athleisure style. The clothes are breathable, lightweight and performance-enhancing as well as practical for everyday wear. Companies such as FableticsLululemon Athletica and Gymshark have a wide variety of styles and sizes to fit everyone’s needs.

Photo courtesy of Pexels

But sports luxe isn’t just for women. For men, athleisure began with luxury sweatpants and has escalated from there. For example, Lululemon has an extensive men’s line that includes tanks, pants, jackets, hoodies and vests. The whole point of this trend is the functionality of the style. Dressing for the season is also very simple with this trend! It includes everything from cropped leggings and athletic shorts to high-waisted long leggings and jackets. Layering is also a good way to complete your comfortable look.

Now it’s time for the real question: Is it really acceptable to wear leggings all day? The answer is yes. There are so many different types of leggings and styles now that it’s very easy to look put together while feeling comfy and relaxed. Printed leggings, leggings with pleated designs, mesh leggings, faux leather leggings and so much more are the foundation of sports luxe and athleisure. Without your classic yoga pants, this trend would cease to exist. We have to thank leggings for a lot in this world. And wearing them out all day to all types of occasions is the least we can do. 

Rep image courtesy of Shamia Casiano

Noelle Jay is a junior at Carthage College with a major in Music Theatre and a minor in Dance. She is a member of the Carthage Women's Ensemble, Alpha Psi Omega, the honorary theatre fraternity, and is the choreographer for Maximum Capacity, the male acapella group on campus. When she is not in rehearsal or the dance studio, she can be found watching "Riverdale" with friends, drinking a grande sugar free vanilla latte with soy milk, or lifting weights at the gym. She is also involved in many theatrical productions on campus.