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Sportswear Fashion: Finding The Right Balance Of Comfort And Style

POSTED ON September 18, 2023 •   Sports      BY Lawrence Omoge
Prevayl activewear: tracking body data to boost performance. Photo: Prevayl / Source: Vogue Business

Sportswear used to be reserved for athletes only. It's evolved into a popular style because of the way it combines functionality, ease, and chicness. Sportswear has come a long way from its basic roots, when it lacked both style and flair. You may find sportswear to fit your needs and style whether you're working out, doing errands, or hanging out with friends. 

Athletes and fashionistas alike can enjoy the versatility of sportswear
Sportswear can be worn in different ways and style. | Credit: Aliexpress.com

But how can you select the best sportswear for your needs and preferences? Here are some pointers to help you find that sweet spot between practicality and aesthetic appeal in your sportswear.

Understanding Your Personal Style

It's important to know your own sense of style before venturing out to buy sportswear. Are you more of a minimalist or do you like to make strong statements? Do you care more about form than function when making a purchase? When you shop with a sense of who you are and what you like, you're more likely to locate pieces that work together.

Choose Comfortable Fabrics

The fabric is a major consideration when shopping for sportswear. Find materials that meet your needs for airflow, moisture management, durability, and comfort. These materials will keep you dry and comfortable during your workouts while also blocking moisture and odor. Don't wear anything that will restrict your movement or irritate your skin when you work out. Materials including polyester, nylon, and spandex mixes are frequently used to make sportswear. In addition to being lightweight and elastic, they also resist creases and fading. They're suitable for use in exercises since they strike a mix between ease of wear and long-term durability. For example, Lululemon’s Everlux™ fabric is designed to be the fastest-drying fabric that pulls sweat away from the body with a soft texture. Tory Sport’s Coolmax® EcoMade fibers are made from recycled plastic bottles and have a cooling effect on the skin.  

Lululemon Everlux and Mesh High-Rise Tight
Lululemon’s Everlux. | Lulufanatics.com

 

Ensure Proper Fit

When it comes to sportswear, fit is just as important as style. Avoid loose fitting apparel that could restrict your motion, but don't neglect your personal sense of style in the process. You should also avoid wearing anything that has a zipper, button, or seam that could chafe or create irritation. Rather than confining yourself in baggy clothes, choose items that skim your figure. Focus on finding pieces that highlight your best features while yet providing you freedom of movement. Clothes should be tried on before being purchased to ensure a proper fit. You can research the brands you're interested in and read customer reviews, as well as consult sizing charts. It's possible that different brands use varying standards for sizing or provide varying options to accommodate various shapes and sizes.

Accessories Make All the Difference

Adding the right accessories can radically change the aesthetic of your sporting outfit. Accessories like scarves, hats, watches, and handbags can take an outfit to the next level. However, think about the activity you will be engaging in so you may select appropriate accessories. If you're going on a run, for instance, a scarf or hat won't weigh you down nearly as much as a bag would.

Styling Tips

Now that the basics are taken care of, it's time to think about how you want to look. When it comes to sportswear, the styling possibilities are practically endless. You are free to express yourself through a variety of color, pattern, texture, and style combinations. You can also add panache and functionality to your sportswear by adorning with bags, shoes, jewelry, or belts. You can get creative with your sportswear by doing things like:

  • Put on a tracksuit dress and some sneakers for a laid-back, sporty outfit.

Tracksuit Street Style
Tracksuit with sneakers. | Pinterest.com

 

  • Put together a tennis skirt with a knit polo for a cute and girly look.

a tennis skirt with a knit polo for a preppy and feminine look

 

  • Put on a varsity jacket with some jeans and appear hip and old school.

a varsity jacket with jeans for a cool and retro look
A varsity jacket with jeans | Pinterest.com
  • Combine comfort and edge by donning a sweatshirt under a leather coat.

a hoodie with a leather jacket for a cozy and edgy look
Hoodie with a leather jacket. | Rebelsmarket.com

 

  • For a stylish confident ensemble, pair your sports bra with a blazer.

 

a sports bra with a blazer for a chic and confident look
A sports bra with a blazer. | Pinterest.com

 

Consider Compression Gear

Compression gear is a form of sportswear that is designed to compress and support the muscles in the legs, arms, and torso. Wearing compression gear can help your blood flow, make your muscles feel less tired, and improve your balance. Compression gear can also help you heal faster from workouts by making you less sore and reducing inflammation. Compression gear comes in a variety of styles, including leggings, shorts, shirts, socks, and sleeves. Compression gear can be selected based on individual requirements. Compression leggings and shorts can be used, for instance, to enhance performance and recovery in the lower body, especially the legs. Compression tops or vests can be worn to provide such support for the upper body and core.

 

Wearing compression gear can help your blood flow, make your muscles feel less tired, and improve your balance.
Compression gear comes in a variety of styles. | Wordpress.com

 It's important that compression gear fits snugly but not too tightly. You shouldn't feel confined or uncomfortable in any way when moving around. You should also try to find compression gear that is made up of durable, breathable, and moisture-wicking materials.

Opt for Reputable Sportswear Brands

Sportswear brands with a solid reputation for quality and performance are probably your best bet when it comes to current trends. Successful businesses devote money into R&D to come up with novel items that are tailored to the needs of athletes and customers. They come in many different colors, patterns, and designs so that customers can find something that suits their personal style. Some of the most popular sportswear brands in 2023 are Adidas , Nike , Lululemon , Tory Sport , Alo Yoga , Wilson , Prada , Balenciaga , Gucci , Miu Miu , Victoria Beckham , Saint Laurent , and more. These companies have combined sportswear and high fashion in limited-edition collections designed in tandem with designers, celebrities, or social media influencers. They have also made exclusive pieces that fashion experts want very much.

Weather-Appropriate Selection

When picking out sportswear, the local climate and temperature should also be taken into account. It's important to dress for the climate, both in terms of temperature and humidity. Put on outfits that will keep you warm and dry in case it rains or snows. In cold weather, you should wear layers of clothes that keep you warm and protected. You can begin with thermal or woolen underwear, which does double duty by both draining away sweat and keeping you warm. After that, you can wear a fleece or woolen sweater for extra warmth and breathability. 

What You Need to Know About Winter Clothing .
Needed outfits for the cold weather. | wanderglobe.org

 Afterwards, you can put on an outer layer of a windproof and waterproof coat or jacket. Gloves, hats, scarves, and earmuffs are just some of the items you can use to keep your hands, head, and ears warm and safe. Dressing in a way that allows air to circulate while still keeping you dry is essential in hot weather. You have the option of choosing outfits produced from either natural fiber like cotton or linen or synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon. 

Clothes to wear during the hot weather
Wear linen or synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon in hot weather. | heddels.com

 You can also go for outfits that feature mesh panels, vents, or perforations that aid air flow. Sun protection gear, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, should also be used.

Bright Colors and Bold Prints

Adding bright colors and bold prints to your sportswear collection can instantly refresh your look. Numerous vibrant tones are available, from neon green to electric blue. 

A collage of polka dot and striped clothing and accessories
Polka Dots & Stripes. | Pinterest.com

 

If you want to try something new, why not go for a bold print? Wearing a pattern such as stripes, polka dots, or geometrical designs is an excellent way to draw attention to yourself. Just remember to mix bright pieces with neutral ones so you don't overwhelm the senses.

Conclusion

It's not hard to get the hang of balancing functionality and aesthetics when it comes to sportswear. You can create a ward that is uniquely you by honing in on your sense of style, picking out comfy fabrics, selecting out items that fit you well, using accessories, trying out different styling ideas, using bright colors and prints, and mixing high-tech with low-key items.

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