The modern athleisure style has become an essential part of many people’s wardrobes. It’s loved for its versatility, comfort, and the ability to look stylish even in a relaxed outfit. Despite its apparent simplicity, choosing such clothes requires attention to detail — especially if you want to highlight your body’s best features. It’s important to remember that athleisure isn’t just about sweatpants and hoodies — it’s a full-fledged style that can be adapted to any appearance.
What to Consider When Choosing: Basics for All Body Types
Before talking about specific body shapes, it’s worth understanding the general principles of choosing athleisure outfits. Here are a few universal rules that help avoid mistakes:
- Size matters: Clothing shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. Look for balance to feel comfortable and look neat.
- Fabric is crucial: Choose dense yet elastic materials that hold shape, don’t show through, and flatter your figure.
- Color and contrast: Dark shades slim, light ones highlight volume. Combine them to balance body proportions.
- Details define the look: Vertical lines elongate the silhouette, wide waistbands accentuate the waist, and zippers, pockets, or inserts can draw attention where needed.
Athleisure for Hourglass Figures
If you have a defined waist and your shoulders and hips are about the same width, you’ve got a classic balanced shape. To emphasize it:
- Fitted cropped hoodies, slim-fit long sleeves, and tops are a great choice.
- High-waisted leggings or joggers help highlight your waistline.
- Look for matching sets: same-colored top and bottom visually elongate the silhouette and keep proportions.
- Avoid overly baggy clothing — it hides your figure.
Athleisure for Pear-Shaped Bodies
Hips are wider than shoulders, waist is defined, and the upper body is narrower. The goal is to visually balance the silhouette:
- Oversized sweatshirts, bright hoodies, and tops with shoulder accents are ideal.
- For the bottom, choose plain dark leggings without decorations.
- Windbreakers with elastic waists help highlight the top and balance the look.
- Avoid bold prints or large logos on the hips.
Athleisure for Apple-Shaped Bodies
Most volume is in the midsection, waist is less defined, while arms and legs are slim. The goal is to “gather” the center and draw attention to the legs:
- Simple, solid-colored straight-cut tops that aren’t too tight.
- Wrap-style jackets or long hoodies that cover the stomach.
- High-rise pants or leggings with a supportive waistband are a good choice.
- Avoid cropped tops and short sweatshirts that emphasize the midsection.
Athleisure for Rectangle-Shaped Bodies
If your shoulders, waist, and hips are about the same width, your body looks straight. The goal is to create the illusion of curves:
- Cropped hoodies or tops help visually define the waist.
- Joggers with ankle cuffs and wide waistbands help shape the silhouette.
- Choose pieces with prints, texture, vertical or diagonal lines.
- Combine fitted and loose elements to create an interesting, balanced outfit.
Final Thoughts
Clothing in this style suits nearly everyone — if chosen wisely. The key isn’t chasing trends, but selecting what enhances your strengths and makes everyday looks comfortable and confident.