So the year has finally arrived for London to host the eagerly anticipated 2012 Olympics and with the many events and mass popularity of the global games on offer, it’s no wonder that it’s not just the athletic kind and sports minded that will be glued to the screens throughout the Olympic season. Fashion will be EVERYWHERE, the increase in tourists to the country will bring in new inspiration for designers, diffusing different cultures and lifestyles to make for interesting, up and coming collections; as well as British Heritage wear from UK based brands, such as Mulberry, flying the flag proudly for London and the country.
One trend that cannot be ignored as the build up and hype surrounding the event increases, is the Sports Luxe image that is currently taking the catwalks by storm. Think performance versus femininity and imagine you were back on the running track at secondary school (when P.E was compulsory on a weekly basis…how I hated those days) and you are on to a winner. Sporty separates, neutral shades contrasted with bright sports stripes and practical elegance will form a key basis for the athletic trend, which will guarantee you a head start in the fashion race.
Last season fashion was restricting and damn right uncomfortable for us women, with harnesses and waist belts acting as wardrobe staples, so you would THINK that we would jump at the chance for comfort over high glamour; the revival of leggings and baggy tees acting as a pleasant surprise, right?...WRONG! Personally, this trend fills me with nothing but fear and pre race nerves…how on earth do I wear tracksuit bottoms in an elegant manner, without looking like a skinny Vicky Pollard?
Thankfully the designers in the know how have created numerous teams of track and field worthy garments, suitable for the fitness fanatic fashionista, as well as the girl that never quite made the squad (that’s me by the way). If you are like me, with this in mind, it’s time to put the negativity behind us, grab some team spirit, saunter up to the starting line and shout GAME ON!
For those ladies lucky enough to own a streak of athleticism, you may enjoy some of the more literal sporting shapes, that combine the use of new technical fabrics with function and practicality. Designer Isabel Marant has redefined the connotations that were previously linked with “the tracksuit” and has come up with this clean cut revival, that is both understated and eye catching at the same time…it’s genius!
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| Isabel Marant, Spring/Summer 2012 |
If like me and a little hint of glamour is more your thing, Stella Mccartney has combined both freshness and fitness in her latest collection. Despite the sporting influences being dominant throughout, she has not forgotten a women’s need to feel feminine. I love these simple shift dresses, in an almost tennis-esque style, they are a perfect way to work the trend in to the night time.
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| Stella McCartney, Spring/Summer 2012 |
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| Stella McCartney, Spring/Summer 2012 |
I know, I know – designer price tags are out of most people leagues, so here are a few simple garments that will be kick starting my sporting outlook on style, taken directly from the highstreet. With the weather still being miserable, it seems like the perfect opportunity to buy my first hoody (although I am partial to wearing the boyfriends) and to focus on simplistic, clean cut t-shirts that give off a no fuss, athletic vibe.
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| Topshop £20 |
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| River Island £22 |
So maybe sports luxe ISN’T so scary after all, the trend is out there ready to be taken to victory…on your marks, get set, GO!
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