- Lifestyle & Sports
- 04 Mar 14
When it comes to working the latest sports-luxe trend, Roe McDermott shows you how to take control of this season's playful fashion game
Sports-luxe fashion is set to be huge in spring and summer ‘14, and it’s no wonder, given the sheer versatility of the trend. Whether your tastes run vintage tomboy, subtly sexy sporty girl or the crisp aesthetics of modern athleticism, there’s a myriad of ways to evoke sportswear’s sense of casual chic, without even breaking a sweat.
The most easily accessible aspect of sportswear is the vintage trend, which combines slouchy graphic tees and sports-inspired accessories for that effortlessly cool, California collegiate vibe. Whether you team your tops with ‘boyfriend’ jeans or skinnies, be sure your accessories highlight the old-school sports vibe. Plimsolls, ‘go-fast’ stripes and boldly coloured bracelets and cuffs can replace your tired gym shoes and sweatbands, while still evoking the trend in a subtle way.
See the potential in teaming statement sportif with existing staples. Pucci’s latest collection showed how shorts can be elevated from gym gear into evening wear by teaming them with a blazer and boldly coloured stilettos, while Christopher Kane embellished simple sweat tops with bold jewels and geometric accessories, for a glamorous tribal motif. Kane also experimented with high-low fashion combinations, pairing simple sweaters with beautifully flowing silk maxi skirts for a relaxed but striking evening look.
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When it comes to palette, don’t be afraid of colour. The grandfather of classic athletic fashion Tommy Hilfiger always works bold colours, while demonstrating a crisp ‘less is more’ aesthetic. Pick one or two bright highlight colours like lime green or burnt orange, and make that the focal point. Combining bright colours with monochrome stripes injects a sense of prowess, making you player and fashion referee combined.
Prada’s sportswear collection focuses on shape and fabric, embracing ribbed wool, which can look amazing if you prefer your sportswear more ‘body-con’. Look for shape-hugging dresses with ribbed detailing, cut-out shoulders and short sleeves for a style that gives a sexy nod to sportswear while still remaining undeniably sensual. Prada also played with proportions, imbuing flirty minis and structured dresses with a sporty edge by teaming them with ribbed knee-high socks.