Return of the Velour Tracksuit

It’s Called Athleisure

It’s called athleisure—you’ve read about it, maybe tried it, and probably agree—it’s the ultimate in lazy girl dressing. We all know the 90’s are coming back in a big way (some of it good, most of it bad), and velour track pants are no exception. I guess technically the velour tracksuit boom was the early aughts, but who’s counting. All I know is, if I participated in the trend the first time around, I’m skeptical of joining in the second time. Case in point: Adidas Superstars. They’re back, but I’m sitting this one out. Cue middle school fashion memories *shudder*.

Lucky for me, I wouldn’t have been caught dead in a Juicy Couture tracksuit in their heyday (I was more into 80’s thrifted party dresses in 2004), so I don’t feel guilty rocking athleisure now. And, to be honest, these pants are really more Run DMC than Paris Hilton anyways. But, if you still have your Juicy velour stuffed in the back of your closet (no judgement), it’s time to dust ’em off.

My tips for modernizing the track suit look:

1. Wear one piece at a time. If you have a matching set, don’t wear them together.
2. Wide legs are out, tapered joggers are in. Re-work those wide pants by taking them to a tailor for an updated tapered fit, or snag a new pair of joggers. Pro-tip: snip off a few inches off the hem, ruche the bottom and safety pin in place. Then tuck ’em into your socks. Voila: joggers!
3. Pair with a faux-athletic shoe (not the kind you actually exercise in) or statement heel. Leave the flimsy flip flops or Uggs at home pls.
4. Accessorize. And not with a fake tan (remember tanning beds?! There’s a trend that should never return). Neck scarves, statement earrings, and chunky necklaces are encouraged. Anything that downplays the “I just rolled out of bed” vibe.

Give it a go my queens, and send me pics of your updated tracksuit looks. Bonus points if you have a before pic from your 2000’s Juicy days!

I’m really into these track pants too:

Velour Track Pants: Harlow & Graham, similar here, here | Tee: vintage, similar | Blazer: vintage, similar | Coat: vintage, similar | Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell Loreen Loafer, similar | Bag: vintage, similar | Earrings: I Still Love You NYC | Necklace: Jenna Michelle Jewelry | Sunnies: vintage Ray Ban, similar

Lips: Kat Von Dee Studded Kiss Lipstick, A-Go-Go