To say that athleisure is having a moment feels like an understatement. It’s no longer just a fleeting trend—it’s become a way of dressing that bridges the gap between comfort and style in the most effortless way. Personally, I’ve always been drawn to clothing that lets me move freely while still feeling put-together, and athleisure checks both boxes beautifully.
One place I especially love leaning into this style is when I travel. Whether it’s dashing through an airport or heading out on a weekend getaway, comfort is non-negotiable. But here’s the thing: I still want to look polished and intentional, not like I just rolled out of bed. That’s where athleisure really shines—it allows for the ease of loungewear with enough structure and thoughtful details to feel chic.
Athleisure on the Road: My Carmel Trip
On my recent trip to Carmel, I packed a few new athleisure finds from Victoria’s Secret, and they turned out to be the MVPs of my travel wardrobe. Not only are these pieces under $50, but they also have design details that make them feel far more elevated than your average leggings and tank set.
The mesh paneling on the leggings added just the right amount of edge while still keeping the look practical and versatile. I also fell in love with the subtle corset-inspired detailing, which instantly gave the outfit shape and dimension. It’s small elements like these that transform a basic athleisure outfit into something you’d happily wear beyond the gym or yoga studio.
Why Athleisure Works So Well for Travel
When I think about what makes an outfit ideal for travel, a few things come to mind:
- Comfort – Long car rides or flights are infinitely better when you’re not fidgeting with stiff fabrics or tight waistbands.
- Layerability – Planes, airports, and coastal towns like Carmel all come with unpredictable temperatures. Athleisure makes layering easy without feeling bulky.
- Versatility – The best travel pieces are the ones you can wear for multiple occasions. Athleisure staples look great with sneakers for sightseeing but can also be dressed up slightly with a jacket and sleek accessories.
This blend of practicality and polish makes athleisure a true travel essential.
The Details That Elevate Athleisure
The secret to keeping athleisure chic lies in the details. While a plain pair of leggings will always have its place, I find myself gravitating toward pieces with unexpected touches—like the corset seaming or mesh inserts I wore in Carmel. These subtle design elements give structure and make the outfit feel styled rather than thrown together.
Another tip? Stick to a cohesive palette. Monochrome or tonal sets always look more elevated, while mixing textures (think matte leggings with a ribbed knit zip-up) adds depth without overwhelming the look. Throw on a pair of clean white sneakers, and suddenly your gym-inspired outfit looks completely street-ready.
Beyond the Gym
What excites me most about the rise of athleisure is how seamlessly it moves beyond its original purpose. I wore my Victoria’s Secret set for travel days, but I could just as easily style the leggings with an oversized button-down and loafers for a casual coffee run, or layer the corset-detailed top under a blazer for a sporty-meets-tailored vibe.
This adaptability is what makes athleisure less of a passing trend and more of a wardrobe staple. It’s clothing that works with you, not against you, and in today’s busy world, that’s exactly what we need.
Final Thoughts
My trip to Carmel reminded me that style doesn’t need to be sacrificed in the name of comfort. With the right pieces, you can truly have both. Athleisure is more than leggings and hoodies—it’s about thoughtful design, practical versatility, and the freedom to move through your day feeling confident.
If you’re curious about trying the trend (or simply want to refresh your wardrobe), I’d recommend starting with a set that has a unique detail—whether that’s a cutout, seaming, or texture. Those little extras are what make athleisure feel modern, polished, and endlessly wearable.
So, tell me—are you embracing the athleisure moment? And if so, what’s your favorite way to style it?
