Track record

Sarah Young

Just when you thought tracksuits were the sole reserve of British Grime stars, the sportswear staple has made a valiant return to the runway and in good time, to your wardrobe.

A cultural icon in its own right, up until now the tracksuit has remained relatively untouched by fashion’s fixation with all things athletic.

But, following a resurgence within womenswear – think Juicy Couture’s comeback campaign #trackisback and a reworked velour version by Vetements – it’s taken a high-fashion turn.

These are no ordinary tracksuits though. Instead, the rules on sportswear have shifted with the humble two-piece evolving from its athletic roots to signify a life of illicit leisure; think Nice Guy’ Eddie from Reservoir Dogs, Vinz from Le Haine or Chris Maltisanti from The Sopranos.

At Christopher Shannon, the designer ignited a penchant for track jackets and short-shorts reminiscent of 80s style runners that came in head-to-toe denim.

Similarly, Cottweiler gave the signature staple a chic update using a mix of sheer linens and iridescent fabrics in chilled blue, beige and pearly tones. While for Todd Snyder a sportier, younger and more retro vibe inspired a series of red, white, and navy ensembles.

This was the classic shell suit reimagined with a nostalgic edge. It was turning the humdrum and the everyday into something more inventive and now.

That being said, a tracksuit isn’t the easiest trend to pull off and there’s a seriously fine line before you start looking like a PE teacher or Chas Tenenbaum.

Instead, start out by working with separates like 1980s inspired funnel neck tracksuit. A great lightweight piece for spring, it looks great alone or layered under an overshirt.

Or, if you want to dive straight in, throw a tailored coat over a simple grey two-piece. This way, the outwear will counteract the trackies for a more sports-luxe finish.