As fashion trends evolve and offer variety, so does activewear. You’d be pleased to know that in 2020, workout clothing extend beyond biker shorts and the typical midriff-baring top. This year, it’s all about bright statement pieces, smart tailoring and a greater emphasis on eco-friendly choices. The ‘60s also make a revival as tie dye is now back in vogue, and the demand for convenience grows as bodysuits make their debut in the gym. Below, the hottest activewear trends dominating the fitness space in 2020.
The dye
One of the trends that’s making a major comeback in 2020 is tie-dye. This ancient resist-dyeing technique, commonly associated with the free spirited nature of the hippies from the ’60, involves crumpling fabric with string or rubber bands and soaking them in bright coloured dye. While tie-dye has for the most part been seen on baggy t-shirts and oversized sweaters, today, you’ll find this psychedelic-coloured print on sports bras and leggings. Popular athletic apparel brand Lululemon has released new versions of its all-time favourite Align pants in iced purple and olive dye variations, and luxe athleisure label Bombshell Sportswear just dropped a collection in stunning baby pink and blue colours. The best part about this trend is that you don’t necessarily have to splurge too — with hundreds of tutorials online, simply DIY an old pair of leggings and make one that’s uniquely yours!
Bright colours
2019 might have been the year of muted pastels. In 2020, we’re all about bright, balmy shades. Think flaming scarlet red, vivid orange and neon yellow that perfectly capture the essence of summer. Make a statement with Gymshark’s latest Sol collection which features biker shorts and loose-fitting crop tees in intense teal and lemon hues; Balance Athletica’s Oasis drop which sees bold hot pink and orange leggings; and Buffbunny’s Taste of Summer launch with the brightest reds. With a vivid gym outfit that’s set to be a surefire way to lift up your mood, there’s no excuse to miss your next gym session anymore.
Shades of blue
Apart from bright colours, we’re also seeing hues of blue making appearances on workout outfits. While prime blue continues to remain a staple, getting increasing traction are various tints of blue, especially steel and muted blue. Activewear brands that have released softer shades of this primary colour include Balance Athletica, Colourfulkoala and Kamo Fitness. Blue also appears to be a frequently used colour in most tie-dye leggings, further reinforcing its position in the activewear scene.
Butt-accentuating leggings
You know what they say — almost anyone’s rear can look impressive in a good pair of yoga pants. Besides comfort and aesthetically pleasing colours, consumers are also looking towards bottoms that give the bum a good lift. While seamless leggings used to be the holy grail of activewear, the opposite stands true now. For a flattering derriere, keep a lookout for leggings with seams at the back — better still if they’re high waisted. These seams cut in the middle, separating both butt cheeks and thus accentuating those peaches. A classic option would be the Lululemon Aligns, which come with attractive contour seams. For a greater booty illusion, opt for leggings with a scrunch at the back, such as Gymshark’s Camo Leggings or CLS Sportswear for a range of booty scrunch leggings. Tip: try to keep the scrunch as subtle as possible, you don’t want to risk looking like you’re trying too hard.
Bodysuits
One-piece workout suits such as bodysuits and leotards have commonly been used for activities like ballet — who knew they would make their way into weight rooms and yoga studios? While many brands have yet to jump on the one-piece bandwagon, it’s only a matter of time before they do. Stay ahead of the curve with Bombshell Sportswear’s sculpting all-in-one piece that comes with a built-in sports bra and sexy strappy back; Gymshark’s cycle short length version; or Free People’s fashionable high neckline rendition.
Eco-conscious activewear
We know the impact of fast fashion on the world. The sustainability zeitgeist is now extending to sportswear too, as consumers want to know how and where their activewear are coming from. Are they made using natural organic materials instead of synthetic fibres? Are companies practicing ethical manufacturing and labour? These are just some of the questions consumers will keep in mind. If you’re clueless on where to start, check out popular brands like Girlfriend Collective, Athleta and Alternative Apparel.
This article first appeared on Reflect Fitness.
