The Look: sporty yet sleek

After more than a year of wearing athleisure pieces on repeat, comfort has become a fundamental base layer of our everyday wardrobes. As we slipped into slides, stretchy leggings and loose T-shirts, the parameters of what we expect from our garments became heightened – ease and versatility is now non-negotiable. But as we re-emerge into a more socialized way of living, how do we incorporate that into our on-duty wardrobes?

Enter, the bike short. A summer-ready version of our beloved yoga pants, the cycling short was proffered by Saint Laurent as a key alternative to smart black pants. A dressier alternative than your actual gym-drawer version, they’re crafted from a flattering ribbed stretch-knit, and feature a high waistline as well as a gilded logo plaque at the hem for added polish. For day, pair with the brand’s utilitarian cotton tank and shrug on a smart blazer for a new take on formal dressing. Slip-on heels from Manolo Blahnik, a color-pop bag from Bottega Veneta and gold-tone jewelry set a day-to-dark tone.

For a sportier take, pair with Alo Yoga’s V-necked bra, Sporty & Rich’s ecru sweater and Gucci’s sci-fi sunglasses for a look that will feel distinctly retro (think noughties New York). New Balance’s vintage-look sneakers will further amp the mood – first released in 2002, they’re a refreshingly chunky alternative to the simple white sneaker trend. The finishing flourish? Chloé’s pouch-strap water bottle, which will elevate your look well beyond the exercise bike.

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