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The 5 Athleisure Trends You Need to Know For 2021

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Look, there’s nothing wrong with a pair of black leggings and a white tank top. But those are workout basics—and after nearly 12 months of at-home workouts, we’re looking for something a little more IG-worthy. So, bring on the cute sports bras and the bright pops of yellow. Here are the five biggest athleisure trends for 2021.

The 25 Best Workout Leggings for Every Body Type and Fitness Need, According to Real People


athleisure trends not so basic bras
Bandier

1. Not-so-basic Bras

The racerback is so 2020. This year has ushered in a slew of surprisingly supportive sports bras that definitely cater to the “I don’t wear a shirt when I work out” crowd. Okay, most do work under a shirt, but wouldn’t you prefer to show off your Le Ore mock neck bra that looks like it could’ve strolled off the runways of Paris? Or the double strap detail of your one-shouldered long-line sports bra, from Nubyen x Revolve? So go on, wear these tops to your next Zoom call—layered under a cardi or a blazer, if you wish.

Get the look: Fabletics Harlow One Shoulder Reversible Sports Bra ($60; $45); Nubyen x Revolve One Shoulder Sports Bra ($60); Le Ore Sorrento Asymmetric Mock Neck Bra ($68); All Access One Shoulder Bra ($68); LoveShackFancy X Beach Riot Twist Top ($128)

athleisure trends all day activewear
Verishop

2. All Day Activewear

Pinterest calls it athflow. Bandier's Senior Vice President of Design, Ardith Singh calls it “all day activewear.” We call it those pieces that your boss won’t suspect are actually made for hitting the gym, but can easily transition from workday to grueling workout. “Updated anti-microbial fabric finishes and thoughtful details (hello pockets and adjustable straps!) not only support the movement to more outdoor activities, but also offer commuter friendly appeal,” says Singh. Also, look for details that aren’t usually found on activewear, like mocknecks and pants with trouser-inspired finishes, which will instantly add polish.

Get the look: Girlfriend Collective Earth Skort ($58); Summersalt The On-The-Go Pant ($80); AGOLDE V Neck Balloon Sleeve Sweatshirt ($138); NSF Rio Cropped Mock Neck Sweatshirt ($168); Vaara Una True Knit Sports Bra ($330)

3. Flared Leggings

Yes, the mid-aught staple (we still love you, Hardtail and SoLow) which was once simply known as “yoga pants” has been rebranded as flared leggings. And though this trend might’ve originated back in fall 2020 (we’re pretty sure the craze started when YouTuber Emma Chamberlain wore them on Instagram), it’s still going strong in the new year. Consider it a great activewear option for people who don’t particularly like wearing skintight leggings. Finally, your ankles can breathe.

Get the look: Zella Barely Flare Live in High Waist Pants ($65); Athleta Studio Flare Pant ($89); Lululemon Groove Pant Flare Super High-Rise Nulu ($98); Year of Ours Ribbed Flare Legging ($110)

4. Booty-popping Details

Who needs to commit to squats when you can just snap up an affordable pair of leggings that makes your booty seriously pop? That’s the question most TikTok users asked themselves when they came across this video praising the “butt scrunch” design of these Amazon leggings. From the front, they look like any average pair of workout pants, but once Lauren Wolfe turns around, you can see that the aforementioned scrunch combined with the 3D textured material makes her bum look almost Kardashian-esque. There are a ton of different brands offering this exact style on Amazon, and if you’re not into the geometric pattern, there are other options that should match your athleisure taste.

Get the look: Riojoy Booty Scrunch Butt Leggings ($22); Redqenting Women’s High Waist Seamless Leggings ($25); Seasum Women's High Waist Yoga Pants ($30); Gymshark Flex High Waisted Leggings ($50)

athleisure trends yellow
Free People

5. Yellow

Vibrant yellow is the perfect antidote to athleisure boredom. Seriously, trade in your basic black crewneck for a one in a hue that reminds you of the California sunshine and your endorphins will immediately start pumping. As one of Pantone’s 2021 colors of the year, this shade is certified to be en vogue, but we also think this shade will do wonders for boosting your mood—even if you’re only bold enough for pastel yellow sneakers.

Get the look: Athleta Uptempo Tank ($49); FP Movement Hot Shot Wrap Long-Sleeve Layer ($50); Outdoor Voices MegaFleece Sweatshirt ($98); Bandier x Solid & Striped Soleil Zip Front Legging ($118); APL: Athletic Propulsion Labs Techloom Breeze Sneakers ($200)



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Fashion Editor

From 2019-2021 Dena Silver held the role of Fashion Editor covering product recommendations, trends, and what you should be shopping this season.