I find it hard to believe anyone who says that they never wear tracksuit bottoms – especially after the past couple of years. I can understand if you prefer leggings, but really, if you’ve been locking down and self-isolating in rigid denim or fitted dresses because you claim to take more pride in your appearance, you’re just suffering for the sake of it. I’d rather be comfy.
This doesn’t mean a compromise on style. You don’t have to be a fashion journalist to have noticed that activewear has crept into almost every facet of our wardrobes – whether it’s a bright racing stripe down the side of a pair of tailored trousers, or a drawstring toggle waist on a smart midi dress. My favourite pair of trousers has an elasticated waistband at the back: a godsend when I was pregnant and still now when I want to have a big lunch. What’s not to love?
The tracksuit bottom has segued into formalwear. I have a black corduroy pair by activewear label Varley that I wear with a boyfriend blazer and black stompy boots to the office at least once a week – nobody has twigged (until now) that I’m wearing the same kind of thing they wear for vegging out in front of the TV with a takeaway pizza.
There are a few rules to carrying off “smart” trackie bottoms, though. Your faded cotton joggers won’t do. Instead, choose a pair rendered in a more luxurious fabric like crepe, silk or twill. Frankie Shop’s have a trouser fly but are elasticated at the back and ankle, ticking all the boxes for style and comfort. Add a coordinating knit and blazer on top and you’re most of the way there.
Shoes are the most transformative element though. Add strappy sandals for an evening out – an accessible look that’s straight off the catwalks – or tuck the hems into calf-high Chelsea boots (mine are Russell & Bromley) for a more urban daytime aesthetic. At weekends, slip on a pair of white leather trainers for a grown-up take on casual style.
If you ask me, they are even more versatile than jeans – the wardrobe hero you never knew you needed.
