I’ll start this op-ed by pointing out the perhaps obvious: I’m not a Fashion Writer. Rather, I’m a Health and Sustainability Editor who, by proxy of working at , also has a pretty good insight into the fashion industry. Every year, come February and September, the team rallies to attend London, Paris and Milan , filling the office with tales of unforgettable moments, looks to remember, and trending takeaways upon their return.
Despite not attending, even I - a runner, Editor, and sustainable fashion lover constantly looking for ways to merge the intersection between my daywear and athleisurewear - noticed a clear trend from this year’s shows. And it was finally a trend that felt in my ballpark - because this season, athleisurewear has undoubtedly made its mark both on and off the runway. I first noticed the trend after seeing the social coverage of the iconic Labrum London Fashion Week show, which “paid homage to the inspiration, togetherness and sense of belonging football provides across the world.
” Not only was it the only fashion week show I’d ever seen held in a football stadium, but it was the first, to my knowledge, that incorporated a team’s football kit within its designs. Held at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal and adidas made history with the first-of-its-kind runway, with professional footballer Declan Rice walking the pitchside catwalk and sporting legend Alex Scott in the audience. And you can see why designers are choosing to diversify their offer.
