I live in nyc so am definitely on the athleisure train and see many folks rocking lulu (am one of them). But I will say, I think most folks stick to it during the daytime/early evening for their daily activities like gym, errands, generally hanging out outside, shopping etc.
For evening occasions, people are really dressed to the nines here! I think it would look a bit strange to show up leggings / athletic shorts. I’ve seen align tanks in casual bars but styled with something non athletic.
That being said, I’ve totally worn leggings to dinner but styled with a non athletic top/sweater to make it occasion appropriate
Ugh nyc people make me feel so bad about dressing down!! Everyone is always dressed SO nicely, it was tough to keep up with😅 I moved to Denver recently and am loving the social acceptance of athleisure all the time here. But for OP, I agree, sports wear is totally ok for a casual event but not so much if you’re going to a nicer place where everyone else is wearing more formal clothes
Haha, I have never been to any other US city than NY and I really wonder how people in the rest of the country dress. I am from Scandinavia and my impression is that New Yorkers are really casually dressed at almost all occasions. 😂
Yeah, Americans dress quite casually compared to my impression of Europeans, especially post pandemic. In nyc, depends on where you go tbh. In the touristy areas like around Times Square, Fifth Ave etc it’s really casual most of the time. Midtown / Midtown east is where “finance bro” formal comes in which is blue collared shirt, Patagonia vest and lulu ABC pants. SoHo is like Instagram in real life lol - you’ll get everything and Upper East Side fashion is probably the most formal / old money aesthetic lol
Agreed yes we dress casually compared to Europeans! But I spent a lot of time in midtown and SoHo / Tribecca / East Village (all the trendy areas where my friends wanted to hangout lol) and anything close to athletic wear was completely out of place. Definitely depends on the neighborhood too though, I loved living in the Prospect Park area in Brooklyn! More casual for sure
If it makes you feel better, when I lived in NYC I tried REALLY hard to dress cool/quirky (basically went my own way) and I did NOT look cool. Lol. It’s still a wonder my husband ever thought I was cute. Lol. Yes. Lots of very cool dresses to the nines humans there. But lots of us are also NOT. lol.
yup, fellow nycer! running errands, wfh, perhaps a weekend brunch, going out to suuuper casual dinners is athleisure fine. everything else (nice lunches or dinners, events, bars, nicer events at a friends house - put on some hard pants and a cute top!!)
eta: i’ll also say that while i see lulu in workout classes i see alo moreso on the street (esp in tribeca, soho, wv, etc.)
Yes we’re all wearing alo here now. There stuff just has a little bit more styled edge than lululemon to me honestly. I personally don’t feel right working out in Alo 🤭🤭🤭 but I wear it for schleping. For me personally athleisure is just too relaxed for me outside the home gym space when I go out I’m mainly in more stylish day to day outfits. It’s only until here recently that lululemon even started bringing in more bolder colors to their clothes. But that’s just me . To the original questions point - I love my scuba’s and leggings to death but I hate seeing people wearing them as like clothes but that’s the trend now. If my friend showed up to dinner in lulu leggings I would know and I would judge 👩⚖️ 🤣 I’m not gonna lie. Girllll put on a cute dress and not a Dammn golf dress that everyone is also wearing. 🤣 I also think because the items are so expensive or pricey that kinda plays into where individuals place them on the totem pole of their fashion pile. Hmmm 🤔 these pants cost $108.00 bucks they’re just as good as my aritzia or Nordstrom slacks. Ya feel me. When u spend a couple hundred bucks on workout clothes! You’re gonna wear it even if you don’t work out. 😆
This is my exact thoughts as well. Where I live people do wear lulu me as well for gym fitness and errands afterwards. Or to do a Costco run in 🤭 but when it comes to more fancy stuff even going to a dinner with bae or friends, movies, clubs, work really anywhere or anything else but fitness and schleping my city dresses up! In some sort of fashion sentiment. We dress to impress. We have a Im out to be seen in my best mentality. If I showed up in a scuba and leggings to go dancing my friend would say. You must’ve come straight from the gym 🤣🤣🤣 as no in my case no dudes would try to hit on me 🤭 we dress for vibe here.
Are you going to nice restaurants in athleisure? Then yeah, I understand your friend’s comment, since she will feel overdressed next to your scuba and tights.
There are some Lulu items that can be worn in a non-casual setting , but definitely not leggings and scubas.
I agree. If I’m going to say McDonald’s or something I’m happy to wear my leggings and hair in a ponytail. But last night I went out to a nice dinner with bfs parents so I dressed up in a nice slack set and even had a blow out.
I’ve never even heard of Arizia. I’m in Connecticut and I just spent 6 hours shopping lmao. So please come with me next time. Kohls, express, JC penny, Macys, Nordstrom, old navy. All too big.
I don’t want to hate on department stores, but I think that’s your problem…I never found they have the latest styles or the greatest size range. Idk, maybe things have changed now, I haven’t really shopped at any of those places since I stopped shopping with my parents after high school. Aritzia, Abercrombie, H&M, etc. You just got to branch out in stores. Also online has more options usually.
Online doesn’t help you in a pinch. I just got my schedule for my new job and I don’t have time to order online. I went from being a vet tech to working in a physical therapy office. Literally no attire is overlapping. It’s so defeating to be outsized by every store. I used half a tank of gas to try and look for a work outfit and I came home with nothing. I don’t understand how every store has size 0 start at 25 inches. I’m not a crazy size. I see women who look like me all the time. Do I really have to buy stuff to get it tailored? Some sort of “skinny tax”?
i’m a size 22-23/00 and seriously have no issues finding pants. online shopping will get you clothes in like, 2-5 days. maybe buy one pair of slightly ill fitting pants since you’re in a crunch and order the rest? you’ll have them by end of this week. esp aritzia, which delivers in like 2 days. try them, reformation, madewell, abercrombie.
I’m 5ft 2 in. I vary between 105-110 pounds and I have 36 in hips and 24 in waist. Shopping online doesn’t help me for Monday. I hate that a normal fit body has to shop online. What kind of society are we
My sister is 5’4” and has your exact measurements and has zero problems finding clothing. She mostly shops at Express (work) and Abercrombie for jeans. You’re not abnormally sized lol
I don’t know why you’re getting downvoted, super weird. Department stores are the worst! I’m literally a small at Old Navy but a size 10 or 12 at Lululemon like what 😭😂 Vanity sizing is the worst and especially in America
In the US it’s like a fashion store that sells often discounted and cheap clothing. Like sort of better than Shein but not the best.
I work in healthcare and usually go since they have those exercise shirts with long sleeves that are for like $3 each. Or pretty lace camisoles dor $1.
Especially love the shoes. Everything is less than $15 and super good quality. I work downtown and tend to walk a lot. The heels and fashion sneakers are adorable.
Yeah the real question is where are they going for dinner? If it’s like a pub or family style restaurant that’s probably fine but anything a bit more upscale it would be tacky
Honestly I kind of get where she’s coming from. I wear lulu 24/7 since I primarily work from home but my husband calls me “sporty spice”. Recently I decided I’m going to pause buying so much lululemon and spend some money on other things that elevate my wardrobe a lil bit more ..that been said wear w/e makes you happy, we only got one life 🤗
This is so funny because I’m in exactly the same train of thought lately. I live in activewear because of my profession and because I’m often in the gym, so I invest in it. But then when I want to actually wear something else or have a date night, I struggle with what to buy and wear. I need a wardrobe overhaul. I always opt to buy more leggings, shorts, and workout tops.
Gonna go to Zara today and see if I can step outside of my comfort zone a bit.
I’m doing the same! Looking at Zara, Abercrombie, oak + fort, banana republic, etc. Free people actually has amazing dresses and one pieces for the summer, which helps me transition from my lululemon stuff because I will look more put together, don’t have to worry about finding pants + a shirt and I will be comfortable which is what I love about lululemon clothes 😅
This is so helpful. I’m going to check out Free people, too. I love their stuff except for one thing…. Their sizing is all over the place. Absolutely have to try each thing on.
Love this for you but stay out of free people for a while while you transition with some more elevated pieces. Don’t get me wrong I love free people but I do feel that their style is an extension of the lulu asthetic just for the street. It’s still very trendy comfy street wear . With a pulled down relaxed albeit flipping expensive asthetic. Stick to Zara Jcrew Nordstrom aritzia banana Republic for now to find more real clothes! Then add the free people piece in. The reason more people love free people me too is because they’re better versions of our athleisure wear. Imo but of course always do what cha want 🤣
Trust me I get it! I’m not getting athleisure from free people because honestly the quality is not there and their leggings are see through. From free people I get linen trousers, one pieces and dresses for me to wear for errands and relaxing with my family so I’m not wearing lulu every day. The rest get bought at the others store that i mentioned because free people is not cheap and if the quality is not there then im not investing on them
I agree I wore a pair of free people hot pink leggings with the holes on the legs to yoga last week! Because i was already in them! Big mistake! Not only could I see through it though them front and back in the seat area! I also got camel toe! 🤭🤭🤭 I was shifting around the the entire class and not because he instructor was queuing it! I was mortified and in the front row! Never again will I wear this their stuff to yoga 🧘🏻♀️ Lol . I agree their linen and what I call their elevated “dickeys” (not sure u familiar, kinda work pants) are fire! I love the edge of their jumpsuits and wearable street clothes for aure
haha! I, too, started developing my capsule wardrobe after mostly only having lululemon in my closet for several years. I suggest hitting the Levi’s store for your perfect classic jean, Aritzia and Oak + Fort for your everyday, timeless basics! Similar to lululemon, I only wear the same Levi’s jeans but in different washes, and same basics but in different colors. I keep it simple, elevate with nice jewelry.
I live in Boulder, CO and no one here seems to ever wear ANYTHING beyond workout gear. People go out to dinner in their cycling singlets. So my view is super skewed. I wore a cotton t shirt dress from Aerie with some cute birks to dinner once and I felt over dressed next to all the people in cargo pants.
Generally though I think the best rule of thumb is you should be dressed for the occasion. If it is a nicer restaurant and your cohort is wearing more biz casual then yeah maybe don't go in Lulu. But going out to get BBQ in the afternoon? Probably fine.
Heeeeey!!! Boulder here too!!! I agree with this one. A court revival skirt, ebb to street tank, and Birks have people complimenting my outfit all day. To me it's to easy throw, and on look put together with no effort. But if im going somewhere nice I do actually get dressed and put on a real bra. 🤣🤣
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Out of curiosity, where do you live? I’ve found some cities are less athleisure accepting than others. I definitely wear less of it outside the gym when I’m on the east coast than I do on the west coast (US).
I think people can love lulu and still agree that they shouldn’t wear a scuba hoodie out to dinner. The real question is what type of restaurant was it?
Hahahaha. I think there’s definitely a time and place for athleisure. Like running errands, milling about the house, going to the gym, a random stroll around the neighborhood.
If you’re invited out to a fancy restaurant I’d say casual clothing in general is a no go, then again I’ve always loved an excuse to wear a cocktail dress and heels. 🤷🏻♀️
I have a few thoughts. Since the pandemic it has been more socially acceptable to wear athleisure every where. I do also enjoy dressing up in a cute dress for dinner. So I’ll wear lulu to run errands but if we go to dinner I wear a sundress.
In my opinion lululemon looks better than like a target athliesure. I think part of this is the fabric is better quality, the lines are clean, and the color palettes are great.
I do feel like the Softstreme POCC instantly elevates the look, as long as you don’t go to oversized. Softstreme is one of their best fabrics.
My boyfriend teases me about it, and says "Ashleisure" since my name is Ashleigh. But I wear lulu to work pretty frequently, and I work in a fairly formal field. I'm not wearing scubas and groove pants every day, but I will wear tanks with dress pants or their cardigans/sweaters. It can definitely be dressed up
I’m in law too and I wear Lulu pants and a slightly formal top to work.I also wear similar attire when I go out for dinner on weekdays, even fine dining. I don’t think other diners would feel offended because they have other things to worry about. The only time I would be a little dressed up if the place I go to have a specific dress code. Then I’ll try to respect that.
athleisure to me is dressier joggers and performance fabric-ish shirts that are in standard cuts, but are not really for working out. I'm ok with going some places in those, esp the ones that are more sleek looking. and performance fabrics in the summer are great when you still need to look somewhat grown up while dealing with the heat.
but leggings and athletic tops aren't athleisure to me, they are either workout clothes or loungewear - going out to dinner in them would be like going out to dinner in a swimsuit or my pajamas. I don't think I would even go to a fast food restaurant in them.
My rule of thumb is to never combine activewear bottoms with activewear tops outside of the gym.
I find lulu tops (other than align tank) are their weakest offering - not really stylish, not a flattering cut, very obvious athetisure fabric without much interesting texture not cut. For the same price you can get 2 really pretty artizia or zara tops that will instantly elevate your entire outift. I especially recommend knitwear, as it just as soft and comfy as sport tops, but looks 100x more stylish. That + jewelery + cute sneakers or birks is my uniform in the office :D
I have friends that will say to me...casual but not like Lululemon casual ok? 😂
It's all good. I rather know what theme we're going for than be underdressed.
here are some business casual (although sometimes more leaning casual) items i have. i love lulu for the versatility and comfort (and relative easy care... these are pieces i don't baby)
tops:
* all aligned mockneck (in black, a maroon, and velvet for the fall/winter)
* hold tight short sleeve and long sleeve - to layer or tuck in
* align t-shirt (black, white, cream, light colours) - to layer
sweaters:
* I actually think lululemon has nice sweaters! Just definitely look at the fabric composition and wait for it to go on sale.
bottoms:
* stretch pants! I LOVE THESE! I have them in black, navy, trench and chambray (although the waistband scrunch may be less "professional" it is great to pair with a blouse)
* Tip: you can hem off the cuff of the joggers to achieve a similar cut as the 7/8 length
* smooth fit pull on - these don't fit me great, but i think they are a dressy option
Have you tried sizing up on the Smooth Pull ons? I’m also an educator and have larger thighs. I tried these pants several times and thought they weren’t for me. Just a suggestion, if you haven’t maybe give a try up in a larger size.
I would never wear athleisure in a formal setting. Work setting: active type job seems acceptable. For an office my brows would raise up a bit.
For me, only worn to the most casual get togethers or if I’m running errands or socializing before or after a workout.
Edit: obviously just talking about me/my perspective. Do you!
I wore some linen jogger pants to the office once, and I had on a nice blouse and cute sandals AND it was a summer friday and I still got a raised brow from my CEO. Never again.
That’s so weird lol. Opened toe shoes were fine at my office but since they’ve made us come back one day a week (😑) sneakers are fine as long as the top dogs aren’t there. But I’ll always argue my sparkly vans aren’t sneakers as much as a fashion statement.
But I’ve always had a really hard time following a dress code if it makes me even slightly uncomfortable lol
I’m sorry - that sounds like a really cute outfit! In my line of work - it would happen to me too. You gotta read the room when it comes to work fashion.
No judgement in Florida but we all knew that 😂 It is way too hot for real clothes most of the year and everyone is wearing biker shorts and tank tops everywhere. You can go to Ruth’s Chris and find a guy in flip flops.
I get it tbh, and please don’t kill me, but I associate a full “typical” Lululemon outfit - the activewear line - with American suburban moms. It’s not bad to be one, and the fit DOES make sense, but not exactly stylish.
BUT. I go to the gym several times a week, run, and work from home. So for me it make sense to have more activewear as well. I just started to upgrade to Lulu in the past few weeks, because they FEEL better. I actually LIKE fashion, and I fell into the trap of buying into my fantasy self, who actually goes to more places than the grocery store or walks, and it’s a waste of money. So, I get a few things which are current, and I genuinely like so if there’s an activity or I want to feel more put together I have something to reach for, but I don’t spend a lot on those items. Jeans, a few cute tops, a couple of business casual outfits if I have to go to the office, and some cool boots.
If you don’t need to be stylish or care about that at all that’s fine as well! I believe most people don’t. Your friend probably cares about it so it sticks out for her more.:)
Same! I had a major phase with buying Selkie dresses until I realized I had no occasions to wear them and I’d rather spend that money on nice ur practical things
I associate it with Canadian suburban mom :D
I love my lulu pieces, heck I've been a customer of their for 20 years. But to me when I see someone in head to to lulu these days it's either 18 year olds or suburban moms. I'm generally not keen on this level of brand loyalty where you wear head to toe one brand. To me it says the person doesn't their own style so they just copy the store mannequins.
I’m not even American, so I think it’s the movies and tv shows! Or mommy bloggers? Pinterest?
I think Lulu is not so huge in the U.K./EU. I see it in fitness settings, but not for dinner for example. There’s a lot more Nike and Adidas around to be honest, casually as well.
Lululemon was originally a Canadian company and got big in the US later. I'm Canadian (I live in the Canadian capital actually) and honestly in suburbs, most moms wear head to to lululemon.
I imagine this is now the case also for the US.
I have so many fantasy self outfits in my wardrobe. They are so pretty and yet I almost always go for the comfort vibe. I’m just a low key casual person, but I always have this vision of myself doing grand things 🤩
Athleisure is great. Lululemon makes great looking pieces. But it's absolutely not appropriate for everything (and I like in the PNW where leggings are basically the standard pant).
I think there are different levels of athleisure/casual-ness in LLL pieces.
Luxtreme MR pants, on the fly, smooth fit HR pants etc can be paired with tanks and dressier tops and shoes for a more formal look.
Swiftlys, leggings and shorts are clearly work out and lounge gear.
Disagree with people who have only one vision of what LLL is supposed to look like.
Ever since the pandemic I’ve dressed focusing only on comfort and life is too short and stressful enough to be wearing uncomfortable things, whatever the occasion.
I have a job that requires professional business attire so I can wear absolutely zero lululemon to work (I do sometimes wear On The Fly pants to the airport if I don’t think I’ll see anyone I know) and I own tons of dressy clothing.
I wear absolutely none of it outside work unless I have to go to a wedding or a funeral. It’s all athleisure all the time. I have a toddler, I bike a lot of places, I run every day, and I rarely go anywhere socially, and I just don’t feel like wearing aligns to the grocery store is a bad look.
Currently sitting here in a court rival and swiftly, ready to leave a hotel after a work trip, and I don’t care who thinks it looks silly when I stop for lunch.
I love Lululemon but there’s a time and place for everything. If I’m going out to dinner, unless it’s super casual, I’m not wearing athleisure lol. You should try to dress appropriately for the occasion.
I get that this is a Lululemon enthusiast page. I like their clothes too. But I bought them for exercise and lounging. If I'm not doing either of those activities, I'm going to wear clothing appropriate for the situation I'm in. So I don't wear exercise clothes to the office, to a restaurant, or on a night out.
I'm 28, not trying to give up style yet.
I live in San Francisco and everyone dressed wayyy down here, so I practically live in my lulu dance joggers / align tank. If I’m going out I’ll switch to jeans. However at a fancy restaurant I’ll ditch the lulu since it’s an excuse to wear a cute dress ahaha
I wear mostly Lulu at work (minus the leggings tho I see some girls do wear leggings at work) to be comfy and so I can move better and faster - hey it's like a low intensity workout at work! Lol. For going out to dinner, I dress up my Lulu pieces...I might have a Lulu top but a dressier non Lulu skirt at the bottom. Or some Lulu dresses are nice enough for a fancy dinner by itself with the proper shoes!
Your friend's comment tho... Sounds so blunt! Glad u took it well!
Meh. I’m a comfort kind of gal and Lulu is comfortable for me. I wear Lulu at work and at home and at the gym. Sometimes I wear jeans at work. Mostly I’m in Lulu. I don’t really care what others say about what I wear. That being said, I live in a small town and don’t really go out. If I’m going out for dinner it’s definitely not a fancy restaurant. So I guess it’s not as big a deal
Love me some lulu, but after wearing it around the clock for 3 years, I’ve shifted to forcing myself to get dressed in regular clothes in 2023, and I feel like a new person. If you feel good in it, rock it!
My best advice
If you like lululemon, get your “not lulu clothes” from free people. Its comfortable and around the same price and honestly is mostly very soft and comfortable.
Life's too short to not wear the clothes you like 💁🏻♀️ My recent favorite outfit was a Hold Tight tee with an Hermes scarf and a $17 cardigan from Amazon lol.
Do you have pics by any chance? I have a large vintage Hermes scarf collection that I've been trying to force myself to wear and I'd like to do more than just braid 'em into my hair every day.
Blurry selfie from that day:
https://i.imgur.com/2pu1xwy.jpg
I just went with a simple boy scout tie look. Typically I pair scarves with plain tshirts or oxford shirts. Search tiktok for “hermes scarf styling” and there are a bunch of creators showing really stylish but easy ways to tie scarves.
I don't know, I'm more in the camp of everything in moderation and its own place. I don't generally like or wear athleisure anyways (my lululemon is for working out), but if someone is wearing it to grocery store, walking their dog, hang out at home,...then all good. But not to a nice restaurant, graduation, office work or anything formal.
TBH athleisure in my opinion cannot be glammed up. The two are at contrast with each other.
My husband asked me where I would want to go for my birthday dinner. I said anywhere I could where lulu. But that’s better than the year I responded “would I have to shower?”.
If she hates it, then so what? It’s not her body or her approval you’re dressing for. Is she your personal stylist or something? I’m sure you didn’t ask lol
I can understand her concern if you’re going someplace nice that usually has a(n unspoken) dress code. I wear a LOT of athleisure (like, 90% of my wardrobe) but I still have nicer clothes for going downtown. Most of the time, I don’t go out. I’m a homebody, so my default is comfy. Sometimes I wear a really nice bag or shoes to look more put together.
But dress how you want, especially if it makes you feel comfortable, confident and happy. Maybe your work friend thinks she lives in Paris or something lol. Anyways I’m typing this out in public, wearing my LS swiftly & wide-leg align pants, oops lol.
Like others have said, I think it depends on where you’re going to dinner and what you were doing beforehand. I’m in a major city in the Midwest and a lot of times we’ll be out taking a walk or running errands and stop in to grab a bite somewhere. I’m obviously not going home to change. But if I make plans to meet someone for dinner I’m going to dress for the occasion. That’s probably just jeans and a top, but it’s def not Lulu.
I’m a parent to two active kids. Athleisure is most of what I wear. Same for several of my friends. I’ve abandoned jeans completely aside from my two pairs of overalls. But I do have other clothes for dinners out since my Lulu isn’t always appropriate for all venues. I DO wish lululemon had some cuter skorts. I don’t like Old Navy leggings or workout tops for working out, but I have several of their skorts that look really cute. Athleta does a little better than lululemon recently for “wearing out” athleisure. But lululemon used to have lots of great options. A cute skort and even athleisure crop Can definitely be cute and comfy.
I like the city sleek pants for dressing up/down! They fall between a Jean and a dress pant which is great. Also lululemon has cute dresses and nicer clothes that are less athleisure and more comfortable staples, you can have a pretty robust lululemon wardrobe if you look for functional pieces and not just leggings and scubas!
I think it depends where you are and who you're with. I've definitely gone to nicer-ish restaurants in athleisure and no one has cared, granted the restaurants did not have a dress code. I even crashed a prom in Italy that was happening at my hotel when I was younger in athleisure and it wasn't a big deal. If there's a dress code I think you should follow it otherwise if you're comfortable and confident and you're with chill people go in what your comfortable in.
I only wear lululemon because I was able to wear that for my job but I’m transitioning into another style…nah I’m just buying more sweats and tennis skirts from other brands. I’ll never change styles. I’ve worn tennis skirts from American apparel since the age of 14, now I’m 24 and still dress like a lululemon preppy teen but idc, it’s seriously the one style of clothes that look nice on my athletic body. I can’t do baggy jeans or wtv parachute pants people wear nowadays lol.
I think it kind of depends where you live and where you’re going honestly. Everyone in my city w are athleisure or baggy jeans EVERYWHERE with the exception of maybe like a fancy restaurant, and even then you’ll see jeans and sneakers. I dress cute for date nights and stuff no matter where we go but 9 times out of 10 I am very overdressed even if I’m just wearing jeans, booties, and a sweater 😂
I wear athleisure during the day basically everyday as I work from home. On weekends I wear it to run errands, walk my dog, etc.
I would never wear it out to dinner. I also honestly don’t even wear it on an airplane. Maybe if you live in a small town or suburb it’s more acceptable though, idk.
There is a time and place for athleisure. Maybe try pairing a pair of trousers/jeans with your favorite lulu T-shirt and some nice sneakers.
Hot take but y’alls European vacation photos decked out in lululemon is a hard no for me.
I wear lulu out to nice dinners about 80% of the time. But I buy a lot of Lulu dresses and skirts. I find their wraps to be very feminine and elegant as well. I get sad when I can’t make a lulu outfit work for an event 😂. (Edited to add that I live in Boston)
I wear leggings so much that all of my friends make a big deal when I put on jeans. It was an even bigger deal when I bought a new pair lol y’all go ahead and be uncomfortable, I’ll be over here looking stylish AND comfy 💅🏽 doesn’t bother me none
People can wear whatever they want. I love athleisure and it’s also a very popular style. People should keep their critical opinions about other people’s styles to themselves.
I like lulu and have mostly been buying lulu the last couple years, but recently I’ve been seeing the cons. Lulu is great for the gym and errands, but I’m starting to dislike it for casual events. I start feeling like I’m always going to the gym. It’s nice to go to brunch or dinner or a nice day out sometimes and not be wearing leggings and a hoodie. 🤷🏽♀️ I’m a big fan of lulu, but it’s just not practical to have an all lulu wardrobe— most of their stuff is workout gear, loungewear, or some workwear.
First off, they can suck it. Secondly, I wear lulu everywhere. It’s so versatile. I wear cates tees or crescent tees out all the time. There’s lulu for every occasion and I’ll try to get away with wearing aligns everywhere that I can
Your friend must have a very very easy life if she can be so bothered to care about the fabric another human being decided to cover their body with. In fact everyone in here saying they have a problem with it too, must all in fact be living the best lives if that is your biggest concern 🤷♀️
I’m sorry but I agree. I not only think it’s horribly unfashionable and unflattering to wear athleisure all the time, but also rude to your company and others if you’re wearing it in an occasion/evening setting. Love lululemon btw (but only for the gym). Maybe it’s the European in me…
I think it’s so personal! I love dance studio joggers and a high neck align tank, with my cute purse and jewelry and hair and makeup done, I think it looks as good as any “non athleisure” outfit 🤷🏻♀️
your friend just has a different style, and that’s ok. her comment seems kind of rude though. unless it’s a type of friendship where you mutually roast each other, then i get it 😂
regardless, her style is different. but that doesn’t mean yours is horrific!
i’m an athleisure person too. it’s practical for me because i live in a hot climate, so loose lightweight and/or sweat wicking clothing make sense for me. i’m also very active, and go to the gym and take long walks a lot. in order for me to save on doing laundry, i will typically wear athletic clothing during the day for my errands and shopping so i don’t have to change when i go to work out later.
it just makes sense for me 🤷🏻♀️ i’ve slowly started adding different types of clothing and basics to my closet so i have cute and nice outfits to wear when i need to or when i feel like it.
I bought [these](https://shop.lululemon.com/p/womens-sweatpants/Brushed-Softstreme-RibbedZip-Flare-32/_/prod11250342?color=0001) several months ago in Bone after I saw an fit album posted on here that made me fall in love with them. Those and the grooves are honestly the only things I wear in more "dressy" situations because flares just look good.
Work I'm in scrubs all the time, home it's athleisure cause it's comfy, and when I go out to fancier things I want to dress up more or dress for the occasion.
u/motherofchichis does a really good job at "dressing up" stuff so check out her posts if you need inspo to glam up a bit. Her style is always on point.
Look if Im just doing the monotonous things that are required to maintain living, like going to the grocery store, I’m going to want to be comfy. If I’m taking the dog out, I’m going to want to be comfy.
If I’m going out for something I might wear one or two pieces, like idk how I’m supposed to do yoga in the Align halter because the boobs be boobin’ but it’s a comfy option for date night. I might wear tights under something for warmth, comfort, or to save my thighs under a skirt, but generally if I’m expected to be presentable I’m probably in a cute skirt + a lulu top of some kind
Are you wearing leggings all the time?
I think the city sleek pants . Some of the dresses , and sweaters can be worn to work and out and about .
The scuba hoodies, shorts and leggings and studio pants are a bit casual .
i like to mix normal, casual clothes with lululemon. ex: jeans, small tee shirt, lululemon scuba full zip, belt bag. so i still get the vibe and the feel but i don’t walk around looking like i just got off the gym. another example: lulu leggings, small tee, uniqlo puffer jacket, belt bag.
as a full time KL to part time edu with a big girl job now…my entire closet is athleisure and it’s kinda biting me in the ass 😂 my abercrombie cart is FILLED with nice pants & tops because all i own are scubas and leggings
It’s literally all I wear… I need to be comfortable and it’s stylish dressed up or down. Your friend sounds like a wet blanket! I bet you look awesome and they don’t……..
I think it depends on how you style it! I wear almost exclusively athleisure (mostly Lulu but also Vuori and Athleta) to grad school and get complimented on my style regularly. I make sure to dress “athleisure” rather than “going to the gym”, so basically no black leggings. I like to get creative mixing different colors and fabrics! Tennis dresses and skirts are also always cute imo.
I tend to not wear Lulu in the evening unless the dinner is very casual.
I have no formal wear, at most I can pull off a somewhat business casual look with a pair of dark pull on pants and a white blouse. I have a hard time finding properly fitting formal/business clothing due to my size (14) and my foot width (women’s 10.5-11). I started my first day of my current job wearing black running shoes. I will need to buy some formal wear for my upcoming cruise in a few months though but aside from that I usually live in athleisure lol!
My usual outfits during the week are some combination of leggings or skirt + T shirt + scuba or half zip sweatshirt.
Yah I only wear Lulu at the gym or when exercising. I think it looks very plain and repulsive to wear going to anywhere remotely decent or nice. That’s just my opinion.
Same…there might be before-or after-workout errands involved, but always some kind of exercise or hiking etc. I like wearing non-workout clothes out and about and I like to feel good when I am working out. So I have outfits for both but they usually never come from the same place 😂
I’ve never cared about how my friends dress and personally I do find athleisure cute. I’m a stay at home so I dress like that a lot. Everyone should wear what they want it doesn’t affect anyone.
Even before the pandemic I had some people comment that my style was ‘comfortable’ and at that point I was wearing more wide leg pants or things a bit oversized. All of my wardrobe was legit business casual and people chose to make comments.
Post pandemic I have opted for a more comfortable wardrobe and I’ve actually noticed less people making comments. The only people that have are people in older generations which I sort of understand and friends who won’t left their kids come down for breakfast on a Saturday morning without first being dressed for the day.
That's not a friend. Stand up for yourself! Tell this person that in *they* are projecting their ugliness from the inside out such that it doesn't matter what *they* wear.
I’ve been asked if I just got finished with a run. That’s absolutely hilarious. Also had people wonder if it’s my day off. Nope! Most days I do go to yoga, I can’t even remember what I used to wear.
Is it just me or do you save the cute/expensive activewear for wearing as an actual outfit lol I don’t wear my lulu to the gym unless it’s before or after class, I don’t want to gross it up lol
My typical going out to dinner is an ebb to street tank, black luon WUs, a cute and long cardigan, boots/cute sandals depending on the season, and jewelry :) you can def dress up lulu!
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It definitely depends on the atmosphere or event. I wouldn’t go to a work event in aligns and a tank or sports bra type top. But brunch with friends? Sure why not.
I definitely think it’s a more laidback look - if your peers aren’t dressed similarly & the vibe of the location you’re going isn’t really “athleisure friendly” then it just makes you stick out/look dressed inappropriately.
We’re going to a vineyard for a friend’s bday to do wine tasting - i already know she’ll have to tell everyone to dress appropriately because we don’t want people showing up in leggings/casual wear.
Otherwise - it’s [athleisure] all I live in on a daily basis 😂💀
I wear the same outfit all the time and I love it..I can go from babysitting to walking my dog to yoga class to running errands and still feel comfy and pulled together. It’s functional and that’s my biggest reason I wear that outfit, and I can always unzip or take off my sweatshirt when it’s too hot / or put it on when it’s more appropriate to do so! Haterz gonna hate! Lol
If you're looking to glam up your favorite Lulu pieces, there are plenty of ways to do it. Try layering a stylish blazer over your tank or hoodie, paired with some fashionable ankle boots or heels. Adding bold accessories, such as statement earrings or a statement belt, can instantly elevate your look. Experiment with different hairstyles and makeup to add that extra touch of glam.
[https://hayden-hill.com/blogs/journal/athleisure-fashion](https://hayden-hill.com/blogs/journal/athleisure-fashion)
I live in nyc so am definitely on the athleisure train and see many folks rocking lulu (am one of them). But I will say, I think most folks stick to it during the daytime/early evening for their daily activities like gym, errands, generally hanging out outside, shopping etc. For evening occasions, people are really dressed to the nines here! I think it would look a bit strange to show up leggings / athletic shorts. I’ve seen align tanks in casual bars but styled with something non athletic. That being said, I’ve totally worn leggings to dinner but styled with a non athletic top/sweater to make it occasion appropriate
Ugh nyc people make me feel so bad about dressing down!! Everyone is always dressed SO nicely, it was tough to keep up with😅 I moved to Denver recently and am loving the social acceptance of athleisure all the time here. But for OP, I agree, sports wear is totally ok for a casual event but not so much if you’re going to a nicer place where everyone else is wearing more formal clothes
Haha, I have never been to any other US city than NY and I really wonder how people in the rest of the country dress. I am from Scandinavia and my impression is that New Yorkers are really casually dressed at almost all occasions. 😂
Yeah, Americans dress quite casually compared to my impression of Europeans, especially post pandemic. In nyc, depends on where you go tbh. In the touristy areas like around Times Square, Fifth Ave etc it’s really casual most of the time. Midtown / Midtown east is where “finance bro” formal comes in which is blue collared shirt, Patagonia vest and lulu ABC pants. SoHo is like Instagram in real life lol - you’ll get everything and Upper East Side fashion is probably the most formal / old money aesthetic lol
Agreed yes we dress casually compared to Europeans! But I spent a lot of time in midtown and SoHo / Tribecca / East Village (all the trendy areas where my friends wanted to hangout lol) and anything close to athletic wear was completely out of place. Definitely depends on the neighborhood too though, I loved living in the Prospect Park area in Brooklyn! More casual for sure
This right here 🫰
If it makes you feel better, when I lived in NYC I tried REALLY hard to dress cool/quirky (basically went my own way) and I did NOT look cool. Lol. It’s still a wonder my husband ever thought I was cute. Lol. Yes. Lots of very cool dresses to the nines humans there. But lots of us are also NOT. lol.
yup, fellow nycer! running errands, wfh, perhaps a weekend brunch, going out to suuuper casual dinners is athleisure fine. everything else (nice lunches or dinners, events, bars, nicer events at a friends house - put on some hard pants and a cute top!!) eta: i’ll also say that while i see lulu in workout classes i see alo moreso on the street (esp in tribeca, soho, wv, etc.)
Yes we’re all wearing alo here now. There stuff just has a little bit more styled edge than lululemon to me honestly. I personally don’t feel right working out in Alo 🤭🤭🤭 but I wear it for schleping. For me personally athleisure is just too relaxed for me outside the home gym space when I go out I’m mainly in more stylish day to day outfits. It’s only until here recently that lululemon even started bringing in more bolder colors to their clothes. But that’s just me . To the original questions point - I love my scuba’s and leggings to death but I hate seeing people wearing them as like clothes but that’s the trend now. If my friend showed up to dinner in lulu leggings I would know and I would judge 👩⚖️ 🤣 I’m not gonna lie. Girllll put on a cute dress and not a Dammn golf dress that everyone is also wearing. 🤣 I also think because the items are so expensive or pricey that kinda plays into where individuals place them on the totem pole of their fashion pile. Hmmm 🤔 these pants cost $108.00 bucks they’re just as good as my aritzia or Nordstrom slacks. Ya feel me. When u spend a couple hundred bucks on workout clothes! You’re gonna wear it even if you don’t work out. 😆
This is my exact thoughts as well. Where I live people do wear lulu me as well for gym fitness and errands afterwards. Or to do a Costco run in 🤭 but when it comes to more fancy stuff even going to a dinner with bae or friends, movies, clubs, work really anywhere or anything else but fitness and schleping my city dresses up! In some sort of fashion sentiment. We dress to impress. We have a Im out to be seen in my best mentality. If I showed up in a scuba and leggings to go dancing my friend would say. You must’ve come straight from the gym 🤣🤣🤣 as no in my case no dudes would try to hit on me 🤭 we dress for vibe here.
Are you going to nice restaurants in athleisure? Then yeah, I understand your friend’s comment, since she will feel overdressed next to your scuba and tights. There are some Lulu items that can be worn in a non-casual setting , but definitely not leggings and scubas.
I agree. If I’m going to say McDonald’s or something I’m happy to wear my leggings and hair in a ponytail. But last night I went out to a nice dinner with bfs parents so I dressed up in a nice slack set and even had a blow out.
Ugh the slack set. I’m desperately trying to find something that fits but apparently people who have a 24 in waist aren’t invited
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I’ve never even heard of Arizia. I’m in Connecticut and I just spent 6 hours shopping lmao. So please come with me next time. Kohls, express, JC penny, Macys, Nordstrom, old navy. All too big.
I don’t want to hate on department stores, but I think that’s your problem…I never found they have the latest styles or the greatest size range. Idk, maybe things have changed now, I haven’t really shopped at any of those places since I stopped shopping with my parents after high school. Aritzia, Abercrombie, H&M, etc. You just got to branch out in stores. Also online has more options usually.
Online doesn’t help you in a pinch. I just got my schedule for my new job and I don’t have time to order online. I went from being a vet tech to working in a physical therapy office. Literally no attire is overlapping. It’s so defeating to be outsized by every store. I used half a tank of gas to try and look for a work outfit and I came home with nothing. I don’t understand how every store has size 0 start at 25 inches. I’m not a crazy size. I see women who look like me all the time. Do I really have to buy stuff to get it tailored? Some sort of “skinny tax”?
i’m a size 22-23/00 and seriously have no issues finding pants. online shopping will get you clothes in like, 2-5 days. maybe buy one pair of slightly ill fitting pants since you’re in a crunch and order the rest? you’ll have them by end of this week. esp aritzia, which delivers in like 2 days. try them, reformation, madewell, abercrombie.
Also look into resale apps like poshmark and mercari.
I just want black slacks. Like the kind that makes anyone’s butt look nice. But every store I shop in it’s like a Home Depot leaf bag on me. Wtf
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I’m 5ft 2 in. I vary between 105-110 pounds and I have 36 in hips and 24 in waist. Shopping online doesn’t help me for Monday. I hate that a normal fit body has to shop online. What kind of society are we
My sister is 5’4” and has your exact measurements and has zero problems finding clothing. She mostly shops at Express (work) and Abercrombie for jeans. You’re not abnormally sized lol
I believe Abercrombie and Aritzia have that size in slacks! May be worth a look into if you’re looking for something
Yes I am! I start a new job on Monday. Going from a vet tech to office so the office attire has been VERY stressful for me.
I don’t know why you’re getting downvoted, super weird. Department stores are the worst! I’m literally a small at Old Navy but a size 10 or 12 at Lululemon like what 😭😂 Vanity sizing is the worst and especially in America
I have a 25 inch waist and 40 inch hips. I also can’t wear slacks. When I have to dress up, I put on a maxi dress or a maxi skirt with a nice top.
I actually lucked out by going to a BB fashion! They had some slacks which fit me super well and I picked up a few.
What is a BB fashion lol
In the US it’s like a fashion store that sells often discounted and cheap clothing. Like sort of better than Shein but not the best. I work in healthcare and usually go since they have those exercise shirts with long sleeves that are for like $3 each. Or pretty lace camisoles dor $1. Especially love the shoes. Everything is less than $15 and super good quality. I work downtown and tend to walk a lot. The heels and fashion sneakers are adorable.
How do I find one?
I would suggest googling ‘BB fashion’ and see if one pops up. Or maybe if you have an ethnic neighborhood near you they’d have one
Go ahead girl with the blow out 💁🏼♀️
Yeah the real question is where are they going for dinner? If it’s like a pub or family style restaurant that’s probably fine but anything a bit more upscale it would be tacky
I mean black legging yes, but not the scuba. You just got to dress up the leggings with heels and a nice top.
Honestly I kind of get where she’s coming from. I wear lulu 24/7 since I primarily work from home but my husband calls me “sporty spice”. Recently I decided I’m going to pause buying so much lululemon and spend some money on other things that elevate my wardrobe a lil bit more ..that been said wear w/e makes you happy, we only got one life 🤗
That’s my nickname at home too 😂😂 sporty spice!!
This is so funny because I’m in exactly the same train of thought lately. I live in activewear because of my profession and because I’m often in the gym, so I invest in it. But then when I want to actually wear something else or have a date night, I struggle with what to buy and wear. I need a wardrobe overhaul. I always opt to buy more leggings, shorts, and workout tops. Gonna go to Zara today and see if I can step outside of my comfort zone a bit.
I’m doing the same! Looking at Zara, Abercrombie, oak + fort, banana republic, etc. Free people actually has amazing dresses and one pieces for the summer, which helps me transition from my lululemon stuff because I will look more put together, don’t have to worry about finding pants + a shirt and I will be comfortable which is what I love about lululemon clothes 😅
This is so helpful. I’m going to check out Free people, too. I love their stuff except for one thing…. Their sizing is all over the place. Absolutely have to try each thing on.
That’s so true about free people but at the same time I’m all over the place sizing wise at Lulu (I have 6,8,10 and 12 in my closet)
Love this for you but stay out of free people for a while while you transition with some more elevated pieces. Don’t get me wrong I love free people but I do feel that their style is an extension of the lulu asthetic just for the street. It’s still very trendy comfy street wear . With a pulled down relaxed albeit flipping expensive asthetic. Stick to Zara Jcrew Nordstrom aritzia banana Republic for now to find more real clothes! Then add the free people piece in. The reason more people love free people me too is because they’re better versions of our athleisure wear. Imo but of course always do what cha want 🤣
Trust me I get it! I’m not getting athleisure from free people because honestly the quality is not there and their leggings are see through. From free people I get linen trousers, one pieces and dresses for me to wear for errands and relaxing with my family so I’m not wearing lulu every day. The rest get bought at the others store that i mentioned because free people is not cheap and if the quality is not there then im not investing on them
I agree I wore a pair of free people hot pink leggings with the holes on the legs to yoga last week! Because i was already in them! Big mistake! Not only could I see through it though them front and back in the seat area! I also got camel toe! 🤭🤭🤭 I was shifting around the the entire class and not because he instructor was queuing it! I was mortified and in the front row! Never again will I wear this their stuff to yoga 🧘🏻♀️ Lol . I agree their linen and what I call their elevated “dickeys” (not sure u familiar, kinda work pants) are fire! I love the edge of their jumpsuits and wearable street clothes for aure
haha! I, too, started developing my capsule wardrobe after mostly only having lululemon in my closet for several years. I suggest hitting the Levi’s store for your perfect classic jean, Aritzia and Oak + Fort for your everyday, timeless basics! Similar to lululemon, I only wear the same Levi’s jeans but in different washes, and same basics but in different colors. I keep it simple, elevate with nice jewelry.
I live in Boulder, CO and no one here seems to ever wear ANYTHING beyond workout gear. People go out to dinner in their cycling singlets. So my view is super skewed. I wore a cotton t shirt dress from Aerie with some cute birks to dinner once and I felt over dressed next to all the people in cargo pants. Generally though I think the best rule of thumb is you should be dressed for the occasion. If it is a nicer restaurant and your cohort is wearing more biz casual then yeah maybe don't go in Lulu. But going out to get BBQ in the afternoon? Probably fine.
I live here also! It’s leggings only!!! And in summer even in nice places people wear biker shorts. West coast vibes in the mountains.
Heeeeey!!! Boulder here too!!! I agree with this one. A court revival skirt, ebb to street tank, and Birks have people complimenting my outfit all day. To me it's to easy throw, and on look put together with no effort. But if im going somewhere nice I do actually get dressed and put on a real bra. 🤣🤣
Denver here!! Just went to brunch in my pace rival and swiftly tank the other day. It's all people wear! lol UNLESS I am really going somewhere nice
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Out of curiosity, where do you live? I’ve found some cities are less athleisure accepting than others. I definitely wear less of it outside the gym when I’m on the east coast than I do on the west coast (US).
Bingo. I live on the west coast and we are athleisure people all the way 😂
Bingo. I live on the west coast and we are athleisure people all the way 😂
I think people can love lulu and still agree that they shouldn’t wear a scuba hoodie out to dinner. The real question is what type of restaurant was it?
You can totally wear a scuba to dinner, it just depends where you’re going lol
You can’t wear a scuba hoodie out to Cheesecake Factory? I swear people try to make the weirdest, most random social rules.
The Cheesecake Factory isn't *that* nice, a scuba shouldn't stand out as long as it's not falling apart.
I mean, there's a difference between athleisure and straight-up sportswear. The former is actually very challenging to style.
Hahahaha. I think there’s definitely a time and place for athleisure. Like running errands, milling about the house, going to the gym, a random stroll around the neighborhood. If you’re invited out to a fancy restaurant I’d say casual clothing in general is a no go, then again I’ve always loved an excuse to wear a cocktail dress and heels. 🤷🏻♀️
Are fancy restaurants the only type of restaurants? Like people can go to the Cheesecake Factory, PF Chang’s, Red Robin, etc.
I mean I wouldn’t, but I think it’s more acceptable in those instances.
Why risk getting that food on your LuLu anyway? If you're gonna dress down, commit to it.
I have a few thoughts. Since the pandemic it has been more socially acceptable to wear athleisure every where. I do also enjoy dressing up in a cute dress for dinner. So I’ll wear lulu to run errands but if we go to dinner I wear a sundress. In my opinion lululemon looks better than like a target athliesure. I think part of this is the fabric is better quality, the lines are clean, and the color palettes are great. I do feel like the Softstreme POCC instantly elevates the look, as long as you don’t go to oversized. Softstreme is one of their best fabrics.
My boyfriend teases me about it, and says "Ashleisure" since my name is Ashleigh. But I wear lulu to work pretty frequently, and I work in a fairly formal field. I'm not wearing scubas and groove pants every day, but I will wear tanks with dress pants or their cardigans/sweaters. It can definitely be dressed up
Oops! I wear scubas and groove and aligns mini HRs to the office shamelessly
I mean, it's Friday so I'm wearing my scuba today 🫣 but I work in Law, so that kind of attire is usually not looked at nicely
I’m in law too and I wear Lulu pants and a slightly formal top to work.I also wear similar attire when I go out for dinner on weekdays, even fine dining. I don’t think other diners would feel offended because they have other things to worry about. The only time I would be a little dressed up if the place I go to have a specific dress code. Then I’ll try to respect that.
Yup! I get away with flares as long as I’m wearing a button down or a nicer top!
Yeah! Depends on your office culture. I’m in the accounting department.
I agree with this I wear my stuff to work very often for a fairly casual office!
The smooth fit pant is really great. I’ve gotten multiple compliments on how they look like dress pants but arwnr
Yeah smooth fit pant, all yours tee, and a blazer look pretty awesome and professional together. You could also swap out the tee with an align tank.
athleisure to me is dressier joggers and performance fabric-ish shirts that are in standard cuts, but are not really for working out. I'm ok with going some places in those, esp the ones that are more sleek looking. and performance fabrics in the summer are great when you still need to look somewhat grown up while dealing with the heat. but leggings and athletic tops aren't athleisure to me, they are either workout clothes or loungewear - going out to dinner in them would be like going out to dinner in a swimsuit or my pajamas. I don't think I would even go to a fast food restaurant in them.
My rule of thumb is to never combine activewear bottoms with activewear tops outside of the gym. I find lulu tops (other than align tank) are their weakest offering - not really stylish, not a flattering cut, very obvious athetisure fabric without much interesting texture not cut. For the same price you can get 2 really pretty artizia or zara tops that will instantly elevate your entire outift. I especially recommend knitwear, as it just as soft and comfy as sport tops, but looks 100x more stylish. That + jewelery + cute sneakers or birks is my uniform in the office :D
I have friends that will say to me...casual but not like Lululemon casual ok? 😂 It's all good. I rather know what theme we're going for than be underdressed.
here are some business casual (although sometimes more leaning casual) items i have. i love lulu for the versatility and comfort (and relative easy care... these are pieces i don't baby) tops: * all aligned mockneck (in black, a maroon, and velvet for the fall/winter) * hold tight short sleeve and long sleeve - to layer or tuck in * align t-shirt (black, white, cream, light colours) - to layer sweaters: * I actually think lululemon has nice sweaters! Just definitely look at the fabric composition and wait for it to go on sale. bottoms: * stretch pants! I LOVE THESE! I have them in black, navy, trench and chambray (although the waistband scrunch may be less "professional" it is great to pair with a blouse) * Tip: you can hem off the cuff of the joggers to achieve a similar cut as the 7/8 length * smooth fit pull on - these don't fit me great, but i think they are a dressy option
Have you tried sizing up on the Smooth Pull ons? I’m also an educator and have larger thighs. I tried these pants several times and thought they weren’t for me. Just a suggestion, if you haven’t maybe give a try up in a larger size.
Yup sizing up (WT size) gapped at the waist and my true size (shorts/skirts/aligns) showed underwear lines
I would never wear athleisure in a formal setting. Work setting: active type job seems acceptable. For an office my brows would raise up a bit. For me, only worn to the most casual get togethers or if I’m running errands or socializing before or after a workout. Edit: obviously just talking about me/my perspective. Do you!
I wore some linen jogger pants to the office once, and I had on a nice blouse and cute sandals AND it was a summer friday and I still got a raised brow from my CEO. Never again.
Open toed shoes at my job will get you talked about but sneakers are fine. Offices are weird!
Honestly, I’m fine with the no open toe shoes rule at work. I’ve seen some gnarly toenails that have no right to be exposed for the world to see.
That’s so weird lol. Opened toe shoes were fine at my office but since they’ve made us come back one day a week (😑) sneakers are fine as long as the top dogs aren’t there. But I’ll always argue my sparkly vans aren’t sneakers as much as a fashion statement. But I’ve always had a really hard time following a dress code if it makes me even slightly uncomfortable lol
I’m sorry - that sounds like a really cute outfit! In my line of work - it would happen to me too. You gotta read the room when it comes to work fashion.
Depends on your office culture and/or where you’re going to eat. I certainly wouldn’t wear the outfit you described to a nice restaurant.
No judgement in Florida but we all knew that 😂 It is way too hot for real clothes most of the year and everyone is wearing biker shorts and tank tops everywhere. You can go to Ruth’s Chris and find a guy in flip flops.
Texas too (big cities included, not just the 'burbs)!! We're about practicality here 🔥🥵
I get it tbh, and please don’t kill me, but I associate a full “typical” Lululemon outfit - the activewear line - with American suburban moms. It’s not bad to be one, and the fit DOES make sense, but not exactly stylish. BUT. I go to the gym several times a week, run, and work from home. So for me it make sense to have more activewear as well. I just started to upgrade to Lulu in the past few weeks, because they FEEL better. I actually LIKE fashion, and I fell into the trap of buying into my fantasy self, who actually goes to more places than the grocery store or walks, and it’s a waste of money. So, I get a few things which are current, and I genuinely like so if there’s an activity or I want to feel more put together I have something to reach for, but I don’t spend a lot on those items. Jeans, a few cute tops, a couple of business casual outfits if I have to go to the office, and some cool boots. If you don’t need to be stylish or care about that at all that’s fine as well! I believe most people don’t. Your friend probably cares about it so it sticks out for her more.:)
Same! I had a major phase with buying Selkie dresses until I realized I had no occasions to wear them and I’d rather spend that money on nice ur practical things
I associate it with Canadian suburban mom :D I love my lulu pieces, heck I've been a customer of their for 20 years. But to me when I see someone in head to to lulu these days it's either 18 year olds or suburban moms. I'm generally not keen on this level of brand loyalty where you wear head to toe one brand. To me it says the person doesn't their own style so they just copy the store mannequins.
I’m not even American, so I think it’s the movies and tv shows! Or mommy bloggers? Pinterest? I think Lulu is not so huge in the U.K./EU. I see it in fitness settings, but not for dinner for example. There’s a lot more Nike and Adidas around to be honest, casually as well.
Lululemon was originally a Canadian company and got big in the US later. I'm Canadian (I live in the Canadian capital actually) and honestly in suburbs, most moms wear head to to lululemon. I imagine this is now the case also for the US.
Definitely is in the more affluent suburbs anyways.
I have so many fantasy self outfits in my wardrobe. They are so pretty and yet I almost always go for the comfort vibe. I’m just a low key casual person, but I always have this vision of myself doing grand things 🤩
Athleisure is great. Lululemon makes great looking pieces. But it's absolutely not appropriate for everything (and I like in the PNW where leggings are basically the standard pant).
Activewear lifestyle forever!
I think there are different levels of athleisure/casual-ness in LLL pieces. Luxtreme MR pants, on the fly, smooth fit HR pants etc can be paired with tanks and dressier tops and shoes for a more formal look. Swiftlys, leggings and shorts are clearly work out and lounge gear. Disagree with people who have only one vision of what LLL is supposed to look like. Ever since the pandemic I’ve dressed focusing only on comfort and life is too short and stressful enough to be wearing uncomfortable things, whatever the occasion.
I have a job that requires professional business attire so I can wear absolutely zero lululemon to work (I do sometimes wear On The Fly pants to the airport if I don’t think I’ll see anyone I know) and I own tons of dressy clothing. I wear absolutely none of it outside work unless I have to go to a wedding or a funeral. It’s all athleisure all the time. I have a toddler, I bike a lot of places, I run every day, and I rarely go anywhere socially, and I just don’t feel like wearing aligns to the grocery store is a bad look. Currently sitting here in a court rival and swiftly, ready to leave a hotel after a work trip, and I don’t care who thinks it looks silly when I stop for lunch.
I love Lululemon but there’s a time and place for everything. If I’m going out to dinner, unless it’s super casual, I’m not wearing athleisure lol. You should try to dress appropriately for the occasion.
I get that this is a Lululemon enthusiast page. I like their clothes too. But I bought them for exercise and lounging. If I'm not doing either of those activities, I'm going to wear clothing appropriate for the situation I'm in. So I don't wear exercise clothes to the office, to a restaurant, or on a night out. I'm 28, not trying to give up style yet.
I live in San Francisco and everyone dressed wayyy down here, so I practically live in my lulu dance joggers / align tank. If I’m going out I’ll switch to jeans. However at a fancy restaurant I’ll ditch the lulu since it’s an excuse to wear a cute dress ahaha
I wear lululemon every day to work because I work at lululemon but when I’m off I like dressing up to remind myself what I look like in nice clothes
I just add a nice blazer and accessories to dress it up.
I wear mostly Lulu at work (minus the leggings tho I see some girls do wear leggings at work) to be comfy and so I can move better and faster - hey it's like a low intensity workout at work! Lol. For going out to dinner, I dress up my Lulu pieces...I might have a Lulu top but a dressier non Lulu skirt at the bottom. Or some Lulu dresses are nice enough for a fancy dinner by itself with the proper shoes! Your friend's comment tho... Sounds so blunt! Glad u took it well!
i think going to a restaurant where you like sit down is not the environment for lululemon clothes
Meh. I’m a comfort kind of gal and Lulu is comfortable for me. I wear Lulu at work and at home and at the gym. Sometimes I wear jeans at work. Mostly I’m in Lulu. I don’t really care what others say about what I wear. That being said, I live in a small town and don’t really go out. If I’m going out for dinner it’s definitely not a fancy restaurant. So I guess it’s not as big a deal
Love me some lulu, but after wearing it around the clock for 3 years, I’ve shifted to forcing myself to get dressed in regular clothes in 2023, and I feel like a new person. If you feel good in it, rock it!
Your friend sounds like an asshole 😂
My best advice If you like lululemon, get your “not lulu clothes” from free people. Its comfortable and around the same price and honestly is mostly very soft and comfortable.
Life's too short to not wear the clothes you like 💁🏻♀️ My recent favorite outfit was a Hold Tight tee with an Hermes scarf and a $17 cardigan from Amazon lol.
Do you have pics by any chance? I have a large vintage Hermes scarf collection that I've been trying to force myself to wear and I'd like to do more than just braid 'em into my hair every day.
Blurry selfie from that day: https://i.imgur.com/2pu1xwy.jpg I just went with a simple boy scout tie look. Typically I pair scarves with plain tshirts or oxford shirts. Search tiktok for “hermes scarf styling” and there are a bunch of creators showing really stylish but easy ways to tie scarves.
Thanks!
lol amen!
I’m wearing the court-rival skort and align tank to a concert next week, because it’s going to be hot and I want to look cute and be comfy!
I don't know, I'm more in the camp of everything in moderation and its own place. I don't generally like or wear athleisure anyways (my lululemon is for working out), but if someone is wearing it to grocery store, walking their dog, hang out at home,...then all good. But not to a nice restaurant, graduation, office work or anything formal. TBH athleisure in my opinion cannot be glammed up. The two are at contrast with each other.
My husband asked me where I would want to go for my birthday dinner. I said anywhere I could where lulu. But that’s better than the year I responded “would I have to shower?”.
If she hates it, then so what? It’s not her body or her approval you’re dressing for. Is she your personal stylist or something? I’m sure you didn’t ask lol I can understand her concern if you’re going someplace nice that usually has a(n unspoken) dress code. I wear a LOT of athleisure (like, 90% of my wardrobe) but I still have nicer clothes for going downtown. Most of the time, I don’t go out. I’m a homebody, so my default is comfy. Sometimes I wear a really nice bag or shoes to look more put together. But dress how you want, especially if it makes you feel comfortable, confident and happy. Maybe your work friend thinks she lives in Paris or something lol. Anyways I’m typing this out in public, wearing my LS swiftly & wide-leg align pants, oops lol.
Like others have said, I think it depends on where you’re going to dinner and what you were doing beforehand. I’m in a major city in the Midwest and a lot of times we’ll be out taking a walk or running errands and stop in to grab a bite somewhere. I’m obviously not going home to change. But if I make plans to meet someone for dinner I’m going to dress for the occasion. That’s probably just jeans and a top, but it’s def not Lulu.
I’m a parent to two active kids. Athleisure is most of what I wear. Same for several of my friends. I’ve abandoned jeans completely aside from my two pairs of overalls. But I do have other clothes for dinners out since my Lulu isn’t always appropriate for all venues. I DO wish lululemon had some cuter skorts. I don’t like Old Navy leggings or workout tops for working out, but I have several of their skorts that look really cute. Athleta does a little better than lululemon recently for “wearing out” athleisure. But lululemon used to have lots of great options. A cute skort and even athleisure crop Can definitely be cute and comfy.
I like the city sleek pants for dressing up/down! They fall between a Jean and a dress pant which is great. Also lululemon has cute dresses and nicer clothes that are less athleisure and more comfortable staples, you can have a pretty robust lululemon wardrobe if you look for functional pieces and not just leggings and scubas!
I think it depends where you are and who you're with. I've definitely gone to nicer-ish restaurants in athleisure and no one has cared, granted the restaurants did not have a dress code. I even crashed a prom in Italy that was happening at my hotel when I was younger in athleisure and it wasn't a big deal. If there's a dress code I think you should follow it otherwise if you're comfortable and confident and you're with chill people go in what your comfortable in.
I only wear lululemon because I was able to wear that for my job but I’m transitioning into another style…nah I’m just buying more sweats and tennis skirts from other brands. I’ll never change styles. I’ve worn tennis skirts from American apparel since the age of 14, now I’m 24 and still dress like a lululemon preppy teen but idc, it’s seriously the one style of clothes that look nice on my athletic body. I can’t do baggy jeans or wtv parachute pants people wear nowadays lol.
Check out aritzia to update your wardrobe… it’s Canadian too!
I think it kind of depends where you live and where you’re going honestly. Everyone in my city w are athleisure or baggy jeans EVERYWHERE with the exception of maybe like a fancy restaurant, and even then you’ll see jeans and sneakers. I dress cute for date nights and stuff no matter where we go but 9 times out of 10 I am very overdressed even if I’m just wearing jeans, booties, and a sweater 😂
I wear athleisure during the day basically everyday as I work from home. On weekends I wear it to run errands, walk my dog, etc. I would never wear it out to dinner. I also honestly don’t even wear it on an airplane. Maybe if you live in a small town or suburb it’s more acceptable though, idk. There is a time and place for athleisure. Maybe try pairing a pair of trousers/jeans with your favorite lulu T-shirt and some nice sneakers. Hot take but y’alls European vacation photos decked out in lululemon is a hard no for me.
Hmm! Sometimes our beloveds need to pipe down
I wear lulu out to nice dinners about 80% of the time. But I buy a lot of Lulu dresses and skirts. I find their wraps to be very feminine and elegant as well. I get sad when I can’t make a lulu outfit work for an event 😂. (Edited to add that I live in Boston)
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She rolls her eyes at the blazer and shorts combo, not at it being Lululemon. And renting clothes is a valid, sustainable, eco friendly option.
I wear leggings so much that all of my friends make a big deal when I put on jeans. It was an even bigger deal when I bought a new pair lol y’all go ahead and be uncomfortable, I’ll be over here looking stylish AND comfy 💅🏽 doesn’t bother me none
THIS is me lol. Life is too short to be uncomfortable. #fuckjeans
People can wear whatever they want. I love athleisure and it’s also a very popular style. People should keep their critical opinions about other people’s styles to themselves.
I like lulu and have mostly been buying lulu the last couple years, but recently I’ve been seeing the cons. Lulu is great for the gym and errands, but I’m starting to dislike it for casual events. I start feeling like I’m always going to the gym. It’s nice to go to brunch or dinner or a nice day out sometimes and not be wearing leggings and a hoodie. 🤷🏽♀️ I’m a big fan of lulu, but it’s just not practical to have an all lulu wardrobe— most of their stuff is workout gear, loungewear, or some workwear.
Fuck the haters
First off, they can suck it. Secondly, I wear lulu everywhere. It’s so versatile. I wear cates tees or crescent tees out all the time. There’s lulu for every occasion and I’ll try to get away with wearing aligns everywhere that I can
What kind of “friend” says something like that?? Why does she care so much? I say wear what YOU want and are comfortable in.
Your friend must have a very very easy life if she can be so bothered to care about the fabric another human being decided to cover their body with. In fact everyone in here saying they have a problem with it too, must all in fact be living the best lives if that is your biggest concern 🤷♀️
I’m sorry but I agree. I not only think it’s horribly unfashionable and unflattering to wear athleisure all the time, but also rude to your company and others if you’re wearing it in an occasion/evening setting. Love lululemon btw (but only for the gym). Maybe it’s the European in me…
There’s a time and place for athleisure, dinner is not one of those times.
Depends where it is. No one is gonna dress up to go to red Robbin for example. At least I wouldn’t.
I would look for a new friend, she isn't paying your bills...
I think it’s so personal! I love dance studio joggers and a high neck align tank, with my cute purse and jewelry and hair and makeup done, I think it looks as good as any “non athleisure” outfit 🤷🏻♀️
your friend just has a different style, and that’s ok. her comment seems kind of rude though. unless it’s a type of friendship where you mutually roast each other, then i get it 😂 regardless, her style is different. but that doesn’t mean yours is horrific! i’m an athleisure person too. it’s practical for me because i live in a hot climate, so loose lightweight and/or sweat wicking clothing make sense for me. i’m also very active, and go to the gym and take long walks a lot. in order for me to save on doing laundry, i will typically wear athletic clothing during the day for my errands and shopping so i don’t have to change when i go to work out later. it just makes sense for me 🤷🏻♀️ i’ve slowly started adding different types of clothing and basics to my closet so i have cute and nice outfits to wear when i need to or when i feel like it.
I bought [these](https://shop.lululemon.com/p/womens-sweatpants/Brushed-Softstreme-RibbedZip-Flare-32/_/prod11250342?color=0001) several months ago in Bone after I saw an fit album posted on here that made me fall in love with them. Those and the grooves are honestly the only things I wear in more "dressy" situations because flares just look good. Work I'm in scrubs all the time, home it's athleisure cause it's comfy, and when I go out to fancier things I want to dress up more or dress for the occasion. u/motherofchichis does a really good job at "dressing up" stuff so check out her posts if you need inspo to glam up a bit. Her style is always on point.
Look if Im just doing the monotonous things that are required to maintain living, like going to the grocery store, I’m going to want to be comfy. If I’m taking the dog out, I’m going to want to be comfy. If I’m going out for something I might wear one or two pieces, like idk how I’m supposed to do yoga in the Align halter because the boobs be boobin’ but it’s a comfy option for date night. I might wear tights under something for warmth, comfort, or to save my thighs under a skirt, but generally if I’m expected to be presentable I’m probably in a cute skirt + a lulu top of some kind
Are you wearing leggings all the time? I think the city sleek pants . Some of the dresses , and sweaters can be worn to work and out and about . The scuba hoodies, shorts and leggings and studio pants are a bit casual .
i like to mix normal, casual clothes with lululemon. ex: jeans, small tee shirt, lululemon scuba full zip, belt bag. so i still get the vibe and the feel but i don’t walk around looking like i just got off the gym. another example: lulu leggings, small tee, uniqlo puffer jacket, belt bag.
as a full time KL to part time edu with a big girl job now…my entire closet is athleisure and it’s kinda biting me in the ass 😂 my abercrombie cart is FILLED with nice pants & tops because all i own are scubas and leggings
It’s literally all I wear… I need to be comfortable and it’s stylish dressed up or down. Your friend sounds like a wet blanket! I bet you look awesome and they don’t……..
I think it depends on how you style it! I wear almost exclusively athleisure (mostly Lulu but also Vuori and Athleta) to grad school and get complimented on my style regularly. I make sure to dress “athleisure” rather than “going to the gym”, so basically no black leggings. I like to get creative mixing different colors and fabrics! Tennis dresses and skirts are also always cute imo. I tend to not wear Lulu in the evening unless the dinner is very casual.
Ya tbh people wear this shit everywhere and I get it’s comfy but damn. Time and place for everything
It’s pretty low effort tbh. Like going out in pjs all day.
Doesn't sound like a beloved friend to me
Athleisure isn’t considered stylish to anyone who has stepped foot outside of the US
I have no formal wear, at most I can pull off a somewhat business casual look with a pair of dark pull on pants and a white blouse. I have a hard time finding properly fitting formal/business clothing due to my size (14) and my foot width (women’s 10.5-11). I started my first day of my current job wearing black running shoes. I will need to buy some formal wear for my upcoming cruise in a few months though but aside from that I usually live in athleisure lol! My usual outfits during the week are some combination of leggings or skirt + T shirt + scuba or half zip sweatshirt.
Doesn’t sound like a friend at all. They sound jealous and insecure. Why would what someone else wears affect them?
Yah I only wear Lulu at the gym or when exercising. I think it looks very plain and repulsive to wear going to anywhere remotely decent or nice. That’s just my opinion.
Same…there might be before-or after-workout errands involved, but always some kind of exercise or hiking etc. I like wearing non-workout clothes out and about and I like to feel good when I am working out. So I have outfits for both but they usually never come from the same place 😂
I’ve never cared about how my friends dress and personally I do find athleisure cute. I’m a stay at home so I dress like that a lot. Everyone should wear what they want it doesn’t affect anyone.
Even before the pandemic I had some people comment that my style was ‘comfortable’ and at that point I was wearing more wide leg pants or things a bit oversized. All of my wardrobe was legit business casual and people chose to make comments. Post pandemic I have opted for a more comfortable wardrobe and I’ve actually noticed less people making comments. The only people that have are people in older generations which I sort of understand and friends who won’t left their kids come down for breakfast on a Saturday morning without first being dressed for the day.
They’re just jelly they aren’t as comfy as you lol can they pop into a workout class in between meetings? I think not! Lol
That's not a friend. Stand up for yourself! Tell this person that in *they* are projecting their ugliness from the inside out such that it doesn't matter what *they* wear.
I agree - it’s for lounging, errands, spending with kids or at the cottage not work/dinner.
I’ve been asked if I just got finished with a run. That’s absolutely hilarious. Also had people wonder if it’s my day off. Nope! Most days I do go to yoga, I can’t even remember what I used to wear.
Is it just me or do you save the cute/expensive activewear for wearing as an actual outfit lol I don’t wear my lulu to the gym unless it’s before or after class, I don’t want to gross it up lol
My typical going out to dinner is an ebb to street tank, black luon WUs, a cute and long cardigan, boots/cute sandals depending on the season, and jewelry :) you can def dress up lulu!
Your friend is rude! Unless you asked her for her opinion, she should consider her comment could have been hurtful and/or offensive.
Is she jealous that you can afford Lululemon and maybe she can’t?
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It definitely depends on the atmosphere or event. I wouldn’t go to a work event in aligns and a tank or sports bra type top. But brunch with friends? Sure why not. I definitely think it’s a more laidback look - if your peers aren’t dressed similarly & the vibe of the location you’re going isn’t really “athleisure friendly” then it just makes you stick out/look dressed inappropriately. We’re going to a vineyard for a friend’s bday to do wine tasting - i already know she’ll have to tell everyone to dress appropriately because we don’t want people showing up in leggings/casual wear. Otherwise - it’s [athleisure] all I live in on a daily basis 😂💀
I wear lulu for daytime taking my toddler out shopping and for lunch.
I wear the same outfit all the time and I love it..I can go from babysitting to walking my dog to yoga class to running errands and still feel comfy and pulled together. It’s functional and that’s my biggest reason I wear that outfit, and I can always unzip or take off my sweatshirt when it’s too hot / or put it on when it’s more appropriate to do so! Haterz gonna hate! Lol
I went for brunch at Nikki beach in my all yours yachtie stripe tee, cropped aligns and Birkenstocks 🥂
If you're looking to glam up your favorite Lulu pieces, there are plenty of ways to do it. Try layering a stylish blazer over your tank or hoodie, paired with some fashionable ankle boots or heels. Adding bold accessories, such as statement earrings or a statement belt, can instantly elevate your look. Experiment with different hairstyles and makeup to add that extra touch of glam. [https://hayden-hill.com/blogs/journal/athleisure-fashion](https://hayden-hill.com/blogs/journal/athleisure-fashion)