The men’s tracksuit dates back to the ’60s, when it first appeared at sporting events during the Cold War. Since then it’s had endless reincarnations but never runway presence—until the last few years, when it finally became a staple on Fashion Week runways. The tracksuit is appealing because it immediately signals that the wearer is laid-back, fearless, places a priority on comfort, has a sense of humor, and may break out into pushups at any time.
Tracksuits have historically been embraced by athletes, representatives of organized crime, hip-hop stars, and bionic heroes. It reached icon status on both Bruce Lee—“Kill Bill” paid homage to his yellow tracksuit with a similar style on Uma Thurman—and even Fidel Castro. Today, the tracksuit is available in every imaginable variation, from Colin Farrell’s edgy plaid number in Guy Ritchie’s latest bro-fest, The Gentlemen, to flashy, sport-luxe street style.
It would seem that, with the head start of a matching top and bottom, the tracksuit styles itself. But if you’re not careful, the look can age badly. Men were fortunate to escape the pink velour Juicy Couture trend of the ’90s, but they didn’t emerge unscathed (see: Duran Duran). So heed these tips for wearing a tracksuit with swagger.
Footwear
A carefully chosen shoe ensures that the tracksuit doesn’t just look thrown on. Nikes or Adidas Stan Smiths have urban cred with tapered track pants. It’s a mistake to attempt dress shoes, but if you prefer high-tops, go for it. When in doubt, wearing white sneakers always guarantees a classic street look.
Socks
Make sure your socks don’t peek out above your shoes, or the sleek effect will turn frumpy. Don’t let bulky ankles take away attention from your sporty chic tracksuit.
Accessories
You can play around with upscale baseball caps, sunglasses, and duffel bags and still exert effortless style. Stick to traditionally athletic fabrics of premium quality.
Layers
If it’s cold out, or if you prefer to be extra, you can top off a tracksuit with a jacket in a contrasting fabric. Windbreakers and bomber jackets individualize your look while retaining a relaxed vibe, especially with hooded tracksuits.
Break Up the Set
There’s no reason you can’t use your tracksuit as separates. Track pants pair surprisingly well with a simple sweater or fitted, button-down shirt. Throw on a wool overcoat for the ultimate “I mix business with pleasure” look. Fashion-forward wearers can substitute track jackets for blazers, or tie together a fitted workout tee and jeans. Zip the jacket all the way to your chin for more of a turtleneck effect.
Clubwear
Go all out with your flashiest accessories, elevating the tracksuit from relaxed chic to bottle-service bravado. Bucket hats, gold chains, neon sneakers—your tracksuit is your blank canvas. Decorate it with all you’ve got.
Tracksuits won’t be going away anytime soon, with millennials insisting on casual dress codes and work-from-home converts convinced that they started the trend. Pick up a few tips for wearing a tracksuit, and you’ll be confident in it everywhere from the gym to cocktail hour.
Van Rundell is a writer and author who specializes in transportation, travel, guidance, health & fitness. With over 10 years of experience in the industry as a driver and an entrepreneur, he has seen it all. His tone is professional but friendly with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. In past, he has been advising, educating and writing about transport for the public and professionals alike.
A qualified fitness instructor with over 5 years’ experience as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, Van brings his deep knowledge of health and exercise science to his articles on health & fitness.
