09-03-2025
Outdoor running gear (that's stylish enough to wear for coffee after your jog)
Disruptor brands like Alo Yoga and Vuori also tap into this, exuding a California-inspired run-to-brunch aesthetic and gaining on powerhouse competitors like Lululemon and Nike in the process. Little wonder the latter made a bid for continued relevance within the womenswear market by announcing a collaboration with Skims, Kim Kardashian's £3 billion shapewear behemoth. Tracksmith is another big name in the space, exuding a covetable brand of New England athleticism that's immediately recognisable from its elegant leaping hare logo. That hare adorns everything from temperature-regulating leggings to mesh T-shirts and tank tops, and the overriding palette is chalky tones of ivory and oatmeal, with a few pastel touches.
There's a whole swathe of such neutral pieces out there this spring, as well as a generous helping of mocha mousse-flavoured minimalism. 'Effortless tones, inspired by nature, are a signature at Vuori and a great transition option,' says the brand's senior vice president of women's design, Sarah Carlson. 'Sedona Brown', a rosy taupe shade, is one of their bestsellers, particularly in the brand's popular shorts and leggings. A bomber-style jacket in a similarly chic shade of taupe has sold out at M&S, as has an ivory incarnation, but a deeper taupe version is still available (for now).
For light beige pieces, look to H&M, where a running jacket and water-repellent sport cap provide an ideal defence against the spring showers that runners will inevitably face this season. Meanwhile, Scandi brand Sisterly Tribe is bringing a touch of Pilates-chic to running, with separates in shades of clay, cappuccino and off-white that feel too pretty not to keep on post-workout. Back on the high street, Uniqlo's entire Sport Utility range is another great source of muted running gear, which can be relied upon for moisture-wicking, quick-drying and UV-blocking fabrics as well as stylish cuts and hues.
Decked out in your spring best, the sun-dappled streets, parks and fields will seem all the more appealing. And if you end up deciding against the run in the end, no matter – at least you'll have a stylish outfit for the weekend coffee run. Nobody has to know you're sticking firmly to the 'leisure' end of the athleisure movement.
