WHY A WINDBREAKER LOOKS BETTER WITH TAILORED TROUSERS

Our Wardrobe MVP

When it comes to creating a successful outfit, comfort is always key, but so is versatility. That’s where activewear steps in as the ultimate multitasker. Clothes designed for movement and strength feel empowering—they’re durable enough to handle the messy moments and modern enough to fit into everyday wear. But sportswear also lends itself perfectly to subtle yet wearable outfit clashing (can we officially call this a hallmark of our style ethos by now?). Pairing performance pieces with unexpected wardrobe staples—like a windbreaker (or here) and tailored trousers—is where activewear truly shines. We're far from done exploring this space where function meets fashion.

Lara: “When I first came across Prada's early nylon pieces—especially the iconic Spring 1999 collection—I began to see how sportswear could transcend practicality and merge seamlessly with fashion (has nylon ever been more chic?). This concept comes full circle for me, with brands like Toteme, Khaite and The Row reinterpreting performance materials. Their bright red and black windbreakers, functional hooded jackets in smooth leather and twill (both on sale) redefine utility-chic for a modern wardrobe. With that said, my recently purchased rubber KASSL Editions x Tretorn water-resistant rubber slip-ons have been my go-to ever since Dutch winter started.”

KHAITE Paulson twill jacket (on sale), LULULEMON Align Nulu™ bodysuit - 6", SALOMON ACS 20 backpack and MM6 MAISON MARGIELA Black Salomon edition nylon bottle pouch

Prada, Miu Miu, and Balenciaga exemplify how activewear can effortlessly transcend its purely functional roots. Similarly, brands like Marine Serre—with her iconic crescent moon bodysuits—Coperni, and Tory Burch have long championed the fusion of performance fabrics with high fashion, proving that comfort and style can seamlessly coexist. But we’re equally (if not more so) drawn to brands that aren’t trying to be fashion-focused at all. Take Estonian-born, London-based designer Johanna Parv, who merges sportswear with sophisticated minimalism (though we’re more intrigued by the concept than the execution of her leather action bags, her skorts however, are so good!). Then there’s Paris-based Rie, for instance, blending traditional South Tyrolean alpine wear with contemporary design—their 100% natural wool fleece vest is a standout —it’s luxury mixed with performance. Bringing us to Satisfy, an activewear brand for runners. We love their Polar fleece here and here (a great combo with tailored trousers too.)

Five-fingers shoes

Legacy activewear brands like Salomon and The North Face, once celebrated for their functional outdoor and hiking gear, have seamlessly transitioned into staples of the style-conscious wardrobe. Their unisex approach feels refreshing, yet it raises a compelling question: why does men’s activewear often seem better designed than women’s? No surprise we’ve found ourselves browsing the men’s section too—case in point: this sleek Nike running jacket and Satisfy Lobster Pertex Shield Air Gloves

Paloma Elsesser in Vibram five-fingers shoes

Charon: "I find myself dreaming of head-to-toe hiking outfits (blame the breathtaking views from our patio here in South Africa). A year ago, my idea of investment pieces revolved around timeless bags or coats. Now, I’m all about heritage sports brands like Salomon—there’s something about the S/LAB Speed Bob that I just can't shake. Activewear doesn’t just serve a purpose; it's fun. Picture scuba diving aqua shoes worn with jeans or five-fingers shoes under a skirt à la Paloma Elsesser (or paired with a leopard bikini like Jill Kortleve).