Two things have been making my hair – whatever is left of it – fall this past week: 1) my Schengen visa application being stuck in consulate limbo and 2) how I should pack prudently for the same trip. But come weekend, I realized there was only one thing I had any control over. All energies were then focused on finding the perfect mix of clothes to attend a Valencian reception, crash at youth hostels, stay comfortable during transit; which would also keep me cozy across many climates. The answer? Athleisure. But while its increased fervor didn’t surprise me, I’d be lying to suggest that a few new trends (and some old trends coming back into style) certainly didn’t.
Graphic sweatshirts
Grunge fans rejoice – your Kurt Cobain sweatshirt is back in vogue. With its practical yet timeless appeal, graphic sweatshirts are making a huge comeback. But transforming this college comfort piece to streetwear staple all lies in how you pair it. Leggings and joggers are a good option. But boys, if your workspace demands a tad bit more professionalism, pair your fine-knits with denims. I know I will be carrying one on my travels simply because it’s versatile, can be worn multiple times, and, depending on your choice of graphic, can be a great conversation starter.
Pro travel tip: If you’re going to be wearing sweatshirts brandishing sport team emblems, be sure you are not sauntering the streets of a direct rival. Believe me you, it won’t be pretty.
Windbreakers
I wasn’t born in the 80s. So windbreakers were simply dad jackets to me. Imagine my surprise to learn that it is now the hottest new trend in outerwear – runway designers from Isabel Varant to Valentino have added windbreakers to their Spring Collections. Macklemore probably called the trend way back in 2012 (I wear your grandad’s clothes, I look incredible). But at the rate they’re growing, you won’t have to visit thrift shops to sport these brightly colored, eighties-esqe jackets.
Pro tip: With the resurgence of the Ugly Sneaker trend, you will find no trouble pairing your neon vinyls with canvas.
Matching Tracksuits
As a matter of principle, I do not trust anyone who dislikes The Sopranos. And it seems that pretty soon, consumers will not trust any brand that won’t embrace his favorite garment – the tracksuit. Whether it’s due to the resurgence of logomania or the surge in rap music listeners, tracksuits have carved a sizeable niche – not just as gym wear but party and street wear too. Credit to its adoption by the masses also goes to the slimmer cuts (Slim Shady can stand up, but baggy pants ought to sit down for good!), and intelligent fabrics that have matured the humble garment to one of 2018’s statement pieces.
Pro tip: Ladies, in most cases all it takes to change a tracksuit look from gym-ready to party-ready are a good pair of shoes. Swap the sneakers for a pair of stilettos and bam!
There you have it – my two-pence on what athleisure you should be investing on. I’m going back to worrying about my visa now.
Two things have been making my hair – whatever is left of it – fall this past week: 1) my Schengen visa application being stuck in consulate limbo and 2) how I should pack prudently
