Look du Jour: Dialed-up Athleisure
I’ve never been a sporty gal, and hated P.E. (except for the very occasional dance electives). And though I enjoyed various forms of “jazzercise” in the 1980’s, I never got into the whole leotards-and-legwarmers aesthetic. And don’t get me started on the Juicy track suits of the ‘aughts…
So when “athleisure” as a fashion direction began picking up steam, my reaction was “ugh, gym clothes.” But I’ve softened my stance over time, and it’s partly due to more refined performance clothing.
Above, I’m wearing the Athleta “Trekkie” Parachute pants, which I really like. They’re made from a lightweight fabric that has a nice balance of crispness and fluidity. I’ve styled them here as I would a pair of navy trousers. They play the part, but with a more relaxed vibe. The blazer and loafers add structure to the look.
The pants are available in Regular, Tall, and Petite sizes, in 4 neutral colors.
I’ve kept this look more minimal and pared back to keep with the “sporty chic” mood. I’m wearing a necklace, but it kept disappearing under the top edge of the tank, which tells me I need something either longer or shorter. Since I already have 3 colors in the outfit, I went with a neutral beige/brown set of bracelets.
I think these pants would be a great addition to a travel wardrobe. They’re lightweight, washable and wrinkle-resistant. The pockets are deep enough for a phone or small essentials. For a Smart Casual look, mix softer with more structured pieces, and keep the accessories simple. If slim pants are more your style, check out my post: Traveling soon? Here are some alternatives to black leggings .
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Wow, you look fabulous Susan! I love this look on you, such a clever unexpected mix of styles and the shoes just top it all off. Perfect.
Best wishes
Julie x
Thanks very much, Julie!
for the first time in years, I’m seeing athleisure on the streets in Italy. But in a chic, polished way.
I recently got an Athleta “with ease” top and after wearing it a couple of times for exercise walks, even in mid-80s temps, find it so comfortable that I have started wearing it also as a casual top. Washes and dries quickly. I was attracted to its blend of Tencel and modal, but leery of the recycled polyester as I usually find polyesters to be slick and not breathable, but this top is a nice matte fabric that breathes. Will look at the pants you highlighted which I think are nylon.
Great trousers, styled very well.
Greetje
Thanks, Greetje!
Terrific outfit, inspired me to check out the links. Unfortunately both the blazer and the pants are sold out! Keep posting such popular clothes.
Thanks! While the jacket does have limited availability in this color (mine’s a few years old), I’m seeing the pants are still available in most sizes and colors.
Susan how fun! I’m still dithering about the Brooklyn high rise cargo pant versus this Trekkie pant. I suspect the Brooklyn pant has less ‘structure’ in its material. But it’s so comfortable and fits so well I’m tempted to keep it. Does the Trekkie pant material feel comfortable to you? I’m going to try the JCrew blazer in the flax color since I need a light colored jacket. Still on the hunt for some comfortable slider sandals….
You did a really nice mix for your outfit today–I love how the blazer and loafers elevate the look of the pants. Well done!!
Thanks, Sally! I don’t have the Brooklyn cargos (my size is on backorder) but the Trekkie pants have a bit more crispness than the Brooklyn trousers. Yes, they are quite comfortable!
I have been wanting to try those pants! They look great on you!
Thanks!
You did a good job of styling those pants.
If I hadn’t gone and looked at them on the web site I wouldn’t have noticed they have that paperbag/ruffley waistband and a elastic tie with fasteners.
I think for space-limited travel where you need city and leisure looks the EF pointe pants or the Brooklyn pant would be a more versatile wardrobe item that don’t add bulk at the waist.