Well-being is a mixture of physical, mental and strong social connections. To lead a peaceful and balanced life, body and mind must be equally in shape. It may even seem amazing sometimes how much one can influence the other.
And if the stillness of nature can do wonders for the mind; sport (and any form of physical activity) will greatly help create a stronger body. But how does fashion fit into this discussion? Drawing and offering clothes that allow us to feel comfortable and elegant even in moments of intense physical effort!
Functional clothing types
Any type of clothing designed and created to be used during the practice of sport and more or less intense physical activities falls within the category of functional clothing. Of course, that may seem a little... loose. Here are some examples of the most popular functional clothing:
• training suits
• shorts, leggings and stockings
• functional t-shirts
• jackets
• sports shoes
• ultra light socks
• functional hats
• and even technical coats for those who dream of conquering cold peaks or scorching dunes.
Functional clothing can improve performance and style!
Technical clothing improves performance because it offers absolutely incomparable comfort and freedom of movement. Functional clothing is essential because it eliminates all limiting, hindering and delaying factors. And all amateurs, semi-professionals and professional athletes or simply those who prefer to enjoy their night walks in the most comfortable outfit can feel it immediately (from the first step!) and confirm it.
In addition, functional clothing not only marks one before and one after in terms of performance, but also aesthetically stands out. The joyful encounter between sport and fashion made it possible to create functional clothes that can be worn 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The elegance of today's functional clothing allows them to be present on all grounds – from professional to athletic, passing through the moments (if necessary) of rest.
The characteristics of functional clothing
The latest technological and scientific discoveries are found in the most modern functional clothing. Functional clothing is becoming increasingly popular – there is no doubt – but at the same time it is also becoming more sophisticated, more efficient and easier to use.
A new generation of tissues – durable and practical – took control. Hybrid materials have transformed functional clothing into an even lighter, breathable, thermal insulation, waterproof and even seamless ally. Quality functional clothes also help prevent injuries, blisters and muscle cramps, protect against the sun, keep the body firm and usually avoid unwanted surprises.
In addition, access to functional clothing is no longer a luxury for few minorities. Recently, many brands have offered good functional clothes at an affordable price. The democratization of sport is equivalent, finally, to the democratization of functional clothing.
Some ideas to create the best functional looks!
The current fashion trend of mixing and combining divergent elements and their search for inspiration even in the most unexpected places caused functional clothing to find its way on the runways of the most sophisticated fashion brands. Clothes that were once unthinkable to see outside sporting events and gyms, today fill the streets of all cities (day and night!) Why not? Functional clothes are, by design and nature, the very definition of versatile clothes!
But remember, however, whatever functional look you want to create, your personal and unique touch will be the element that will define your look forever! Style is a very personal matter and everyone should be free to express – respectfully – their deepest thoughts and feelings. True style cannot flourish without flexibility and ease; no aesthetic enjoyment is possible without true freedom.
Considering all this, wouldn't it be practical and chic to see how to introduce functional clothes into our day-to-day looks? (whether more sporty or more casual looks)
1. ♪ I fly everywhere ♪
The fleece, once technical fabric and garment, is today one of the main trends of winter fashion. The fleece can be worn by everyone, the fleece can be used anywhere, the fleece can be used with everything! Whether in or out of the house, either as part of a creative overlap or as the jacket that accompanies you to work every morning; it flirts means winter and, in addition, is functional and cool!
2. The training suit (always essential; always eternal)
Is it Mike Tyson, Muhammad Ali, Marvin Hagler, or are you running on the beach with your hood tied up? Increase your sporty style and enjoy the outdoor activity of your choice with the chicest sweaters. Training suits easily match almost everything, are they easy to use and most importantly? They are tested and approved by world champions!
There are also many sets of premium coats made of cotton or synthetic fabrics; if you are looking for something even more sporting and dry even faster!
3. “ shell” jacket (or a coach jacket)
Do we have to fight the wind, the gusts, the rain and the humidity? Should you leave before sunrise or run when the moon is shining? Breathable jackets will keep you warm and dry. Combine them with your leggings and tights, your shorts or your chinos and kakis! If you are looking for a more urban but still functional alternative, choose a coach coat and combine it with a shirt, high waist jeans and their black loafers!
4. Shorts
Shorts are definitely at the top of the functional clothing rating. Technological shorts come in all sizes, fabrics, adjustments and prints you can (or not) imagine! Wear a pair of racing shorts with a square sweatshirt, a wide vintage white shirt and a durable pair of Adidas X Parley or with a pair of Supergas!
If you want a look inspired by New York basketball courts, choose gray shorts and match them with a '90s NBA shirt and Jordan sneakers. Are you a football fan? So choose your favorite team shorts, knee-to-knee socks and a pair of Reebok Club C85s. Complete your urban sports look with a jeans jacket. If you need something a little more adventurous, choose a pair of stylish male walking shorts like the above and wear them in a white shirt or casual shirt!
california legal variation
Golf shorts, white stockings with red stripes, Vans, Talk All Stars or even a pair of Feiyues. You can also choose a cropped sweater, a gray shirt or long-sleeved henley, a Bjorn Borg tiara and will be ready to skate, BMX or simply walk! Whatever you do, the spirit of California will be with you!
5. The Functional Dress
Take an elegant winter park (but functional) like this:
And wear it with 100% sports clothes or suits. Timeless – and functional – clothes such as padded parkas or jackets are great options for everyday life.
Wires were also functional clothes in the past. Then put on your grandfather's knits, a Penfield jacket, a couple of beige positions, boots or tennis and enjoy the winter to the fullest!
Iconic fashion brands – real style giants – like Dockers®, North Face, Nike, Puma, Lacoste or Armani make functional clothes that are inclusive, durable and of superior quality. Check out your functional clothing collections and enjoy it according to your needs.
P.-S. – It is liberating and rejuvenating to breathe deeply, exercise and live in a healthy environment; it is enough an ethical and responsible spirit to achieve not only that, but the absolute maximum: a greater, profound and universal peace.
Credits
Joan Calabia holds the position of digital leader of Dockers® International (in Levi Strauss & Co). Joan's experience ranges from marketing operations to the creation of immersive experiences. He leads the direction of the brand in adapting to the new generation of casual consumers of our time, maintaining the California Cool style; priceless legacy of the brand.
Note: guest posts are the sole responsibility of the authors.