Fashion
The Rise of Athleisure: Blending Comfort and Style
In recent times, an emerging style has taken the world by storm, blurring the lines between athletic wear and daily attire. Athleisure, as it is commonly known, has transformed the fashion business by merging comfort and style in previously unthinkable ways. People of various ages and backgrounds have embraced this trend, making athleisure a dominant force in the global fashion landscape.
If you’re new to athleisure, you might be wondering, “What is athleisure?” Simply described, it is a hybrid of athletic and leisure wear that can be worn in and out of the gym. The key to athleisure is its adaptability; it is apparel and footwear that is both comfortable and useful, but yet fashionable enough to wear to work or out on the town.
Athleisure is all about combining comfort and style, resulting in a seamless blend of athletic and casual attire. Traditional activewear was meant primarily for exercises and sporting activities, but athleisure takes it a step further, making it ideal for a variety of circumstances such as work, social gatherings, and even evenings out on the town. Stretch, breathability, and moisture-wicking capabilities are provided by the fabrics used in athleisure apparel, such as spandex, polyester, and nylon blends, ensuring optimal comfort throughout the day.
Athleisure’s ability to blur the barriers between activity clothing and fashion is one of its defining traits. Designers and manufacturers have embraced this trend, developing unique and fashionable outfits that can be worn from the gym to the streets with ease. Leggings, which were once only worn for workouts, are now coupled with big sweaters or elegant coats and have become a popular choice for many. Hoodies, joggers and trainers have also received a fashion makeover, with attention to detail, innovative patterns and high-quality materials providing a fashionable edge.
The popularity of athleisure has resulted in the emergence of a plethora of specialized brands completely dedicated to manufacturing attractive sports apparel. Established athletic behemoths and rising labels have recognized the potential of this trend and have committed their efforts to creating athleisure collections that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. These companies recognize that customers want clothing that not only looks well but also performs well during physical activity. Athleisure businesses have effectively secured a considerable market share and built a dedicated client base by mixing fashion-forward designs with technical characteristics.
The rise of athleisure can also be traced to the celebrity and influencers who have adopted it as their go-to style. With fashion icons routinely seen in fashionable gym attire, the trend swiftly gained support among their fans. Celebrities such as Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Kendall Jenner have all launched their own athleisure collections, cementing the trend’s place in popular culture. The support of these powerful personalities has surely boosted the trend to new heights, transforming athleisure into a symbol of both comfort and status.
The increased emphasis on health, wellness, and exercise has contributed significantly to the appeal of athleisure. The need for useful yet beautiful clothes has increased as more people incorporate exercise and physical activity into their everyday routines. Athleisure allows people to move effortlessly from their workouts to their daily activities, supporting an active and healthy lifestyle. Because athleisure is designed to fit and flatter a wide range of body types, it has also inspired a more inclusive and body-positive attitude to fashion.
The rise of athleisure has altered our approach to fashion and style. This style has effectively combined comfort and functionality with current aesthetics, allowing people to prioritise both their physical well-being and their fashion preferences. Athleisure has become a wardrobe essential for many, signifying a lifestyle that emphasises versatility, performance, and self-expression.
Fashion
The Year of Statement Hat
When Anya Taylor-Joy stepped out at this year’s Cannes Film Festival in Jacquemus’ Le Chapeau Bomba, a delightfully oversized raffia hat it was clear that this accessory had become the season’s ultimate statement piece. The fall 2024 runways echoed this sentiment, with Chanel and Prada showcasing hats as the new must-have. Think of Sarah Jessica Parker’s oversized Maryam Keyhani creation, worn on the set of And Just Like That… earlier this year, or Margaret Qualley donning Chanel’s nautical style at Cannes. These hats are for the main characters who command attention, making a bold statement long before you arrive.
Altuzarra’s fall 2024 collection featured boxy headpieces on some models, each designed to evoke a specific character. “It was about finding joy in wearing a complete look, fully embodying a character,” explains designer Joseph Altuzarra. Interestingly, this was the label’s first foray into hats beyond casual knit and woven styles. ‘We didn’t plan to sell them,’ Altuzarra admits, ‘but they ended up being a hit.
Similarly, milliner Gigi Burris O’Hara has experienced a surge in demand. Although she launched her brand, Gigi Burris, in 2012, she only opened her first store late last year. “During leaner times, when people become more selective with their spending, they seek joy in thoughtful purchases,” she explains.
After years of embracing a more casual style, we’re now gravitating toward all things expressive. Maximalist content creator Sara Camposarcone has been embracing pieces from small brands like Potion23, renowned for its whimsical, witchy hats. “I feel like I can now wear bolder headpieces that complement my extravagant outfits,” Camposarcone shares. “Since discovering vintage fashion, I’ve developed a passion for finding great vintage pillbox hats or a 1920s fascinator.”
Fashion
The Iconic Bags and Their Names
Handbags are more than just functional accessories; they are statements of style and symbols of status. Over the years, several handbags have achieved iconic status, becoming synonymous with luxury and timeless fashion. Here’s a look at some of the most iconic bags and the stories behind their names.
Hermès Birkin
Origin: The Birkin bag was born from a chance encounter between actress and singer Jane Birkin and Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas on a flight in 1981. Birkin mentioned her struggle to find a perfect weekend bag, leading Dumas to design a bag tailored to her needs.
Icon Status: The Birkin is known for its exclusivity, craftsmanship, and high price tag. It has become a symbol of wealth and luxury, often with a waiting list of years.
Chanel 2.55
Origin: Created by Coco Chanel in February 1955 (hence the name), the Chanel 2.55 was revolutionary for its time, introducing the concept of a shoulder bag, freeing women from the inconvenience of clutch bags.
Icon Status: With its quilted leather, chain strap, and distinctive CC lock (added in the 1980s by Karl Lagerfeld), the 2.55 remains a timeless piece, beloved by fashionistas worldwide.
Louis Vuitton Speedy
Origin: Introduced in the 1930s, the Speedy was designed as a smaller version of the Louis Vuitton Keepall. It became particularly popular in the 1960s when Audrey Hepburn requested a smaller version, leading to the creation of the Speedy 25.
Icon Status: Known for its classic monogram canvas and practicality, the Speedy is a versatile bag that has remained a staple in the fashion world for decades.
Dior Lady Dior
Origin: First presented in 1994, the Lady Dior bag was initially known as “Chouchou.” It gained its iconic status when Princess Diana was photographed with it in 1995, leading to its renaming in her honor.
Icon Status: The bag’s signature cannage stitching and dangling Dior charms make it instantly recognizable. It’s a favorite among celebrities and royalty, symbolizing elegance and sophistication.
Gucci Jackie
Origin: Originally called the Fifties Constance, this bag was renamed the Jackie after Jackie Kennedy was frequently photographed carrying it in the 1960s.
Icon Status: The Jackie bag’s hobo shape and piston strap closure make it a timeless piece. It has seen numerous revivals and remains a classic in the Gucci lineup.
Prada Galleria
Origin: Named after the historic Prada boutique in Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the Galleria bag epitomizes the brand’s heritage and craftsmanship.
Icon Status: With its clean lines, structured shape, and Saffiano leather, the Galleria bag is a symbol of modern elegance and understated luxury.
Fendi Baguette
Origin: Designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi in 1997, the Baguette was named for its shape, resembling the French baguette loaf, and designed to be carried under the arm.
Icon Status: Popularized by its appearance on the TV show “Sex and the City,” the Baguette became a must-have accessory, famous for its countless variations in colors and materials.
Balenciaga City
Origin: Introduced in the early 2000s, the Balenciaga City bag, also known as the Motorcycle bag, was designed by Nicolas Ghesquière. Its casual yet chic design quickly gained a cult following.
Icon Status: Known for its slouchy silhouette, distinctive hardware, and tassels, the City bag became an icon of the 2000s and continues to be a beloved piece.
These iconic bags have transcended fashion trends, becoming enduring symbols of style, craftsmanship, and luxury. Each bag tells a unique story, adding to its allure and making it a coveted piece for fashion enthusiasts around the world. Investing in one of these iconic bags is not just about owning a stylish accessory but also a piece of fashion history.
Cover Story
Sonam Kapoor Ahuja’s Traditional Ladakh’s Heritage Attire
As Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding festivities come to an end, Sonam Kapoor Ahuja chose to dress in Ladakh traditional garb. The event featured a number of topics, with India’s rich past being the focus yesterday night. Sonam Kapoor Ahuja emphasized this by dressing in Namza Couture, which was established in 2016 by Padma Yangchan and Jigmet Disket and is renowned for its commitment to Ladakhi fabrics.
The Mogos, a gown-like item with a shimmering zari border and pistachio green brocade, was part of Sonam’s ensemble. She wore a rani-pink shawl called a “Bok,” which is usually made from silk or goat skin and is worn to keep warm by the locals. This outfit was made of silk by Benaras artisans, and it had intricate phoenix embroidery, which stands for knowledge and vigor. It also had a crane image, which stands for prosperity and peace.
Her jewelry selections also honored custom; she wore a neckpiece set with diamonds and an emerald stone in the center. She accessorized this with striking statement rings and copper handcuffs, all tastefully matched with pearl earrings. She chose metallic juttis to complete her look, and she carried a bespoke purse by re-ceremonial.
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