The Active-Wear Edit

With Olympic Fever reaching an all time high in one of the world’s fashion capitals this summer, it is only natural that trends have turned to stylish sportswear with a technical and functional edge. Sadie Macleod uncovers some of the most recent sport-inspired collections

Stella McCartney for adidas was one of the first to embrace this trend when she collaborated with adidas in 2004 to produce a luxurious collection of achingly-chic active-wear making her an obvious choice to design Team GB’s kit in this year’s olympics. This season’s collection pays homage to her unique style and wonderful simplicity with monochrome bodies, metallic jackets (that have subtle air vents) and bright yoga pants perfect for the summer. Her mission? To produce a selection of elegant clothes that active women can wear without having to sacrifice their style. Her first sports dedicated store opened in London’s this spring.

Another successful high-end collection that came from adidas Originals was their recent collaboration with the eclectic New York retailer Opening Ceremony (they also have spaces in L.A and Tokyo). The inspiration for this collection was the roots of the Olympics and by focusing on two events – swim and cycling – the range is made for the confident, fashion forward individual who also has a love of being active and staying fit. Playing with pretty prints, bright colours and tight fabrics, the collection’s nostalgic shapes nod to the 90’s, drawing on the unisex trend that was also prevalent at this time. The cycling onesie is on the top of our wish list this season.

Renowned for putting black back on the catwalk, Yohyi Yamamoto, has stayed true to his ethos for billowing fabrics, Victorian shapes and hint of gothic with his new Y3 collection. Check also comes into play, introducing a punk-rock angle to the clothes and although the rest of the pieces are monochromatic, the occasional flash of red or electric blue can be seen – especially in the menswear. His trainers are particularly stylish yet simple, Y3 will see you go from sport to street in no time.

Quite literally looking to the stars for his latest collection with Puma, hussein chalayan take’s outer wear to its most extreme definition by channeling space and astronaut elements into his designs. Using hi-tech fabrics that are both functional and chic, the clothes are a sophisticated take on daily sports wear. The extra-terrestrial theme is also evident in the footwear, which draws on NASA technicality and fabrics. Most evident is the sleek, streamlined jackets in earthy tones built with functional pockets and layering but I quickly fell in love with the two-toned men’s Fleece Guernsey – perfect for any outdoor trip where you may have to contend with winter weather.