Fashion Week has become all about “peacocking,” a term used to describe those out of control outfits you see spotted outside of your favorite runway shows. People have been piling on the fur scarves, unstructured jackets and patterned pants to get noticed. We all know it’s not easy to make statement outfits work, and no matter how hard we try, we’ll never look quite like the models killing the game during Fashion Week. Let’s just say I wish my middle school self knew that the more layers you wear doesn’t necessarily make you more fashionable. However, I’m here to remind you that you can still get spotted without all the pizzazz, and you can even wear sweatpants while doing it! That’s right, sweatpants.
Sweatpants are big in men’s fashion right now, and I’m not opposed to them coming back for women. Who doesn’t love a garment that can transition straight from bed to class? We’re all guilty of wearing sweatpants in public at least once or twice, but we can at least make a pact to purchase stylish ones from now on. Use this Fashionisto’s 3.1 Phillip Lim sweatpants as an example. The interesting seams make them feel more like grown-up pants, which is important because we do not want to look like we’re coming straight from basketball practice (another allusion to my middle school fashion faux pas). Ladies and gents, it’s time to ditch your 2011 high school volleyball sweatpants and upgrade to something like this.
Sneakers are another key to putting together a successful sporty outfit. They’re always comfortable, and you’re guaranteed to feel cool with whatever you pair them with. I love a good athletic sneaker, especially my Nike Air Hurache sneakers, but sometimes I need to remind myself that sneakers can feel luxe with embellishments instead of athletic straps and laces. Once again, this guy nails it. The pattern and studs on his gorgeously woven Christian Louboutin slip-on sneakers pull his statement sporty look together. He strategically picked his jacket and sneakers as statement pieces that complement each other in style and color.
It’s easy to fly under the style radar while still standing out. It seems like a contradiction, but it’s really just careful decision making. If you want to incorporate two crazy textures, do it in subtle colors. If you want to create a noticeable athletic look, pair embellished sneakers with sleek sweatpants. Balance is key with any style.
What is your STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK? “Sweatpants are the key to an athletic-chic style. Pair their relaxed fit with a cool jacket/sneaker combination, and you’re good to go!”
