If fashion had a comfort capital, the Essentials Tracksuit would be its ambassador. Equal parts laid-back luxe and street-style staple, this iconic set has transcended gym gear to become a mainstay in wardrobes around the globe. Whether it’s being snapped on the streets of London, starred in TikTok videos, or styled for an impromptu brunch, the Essentials tracksuit is everywhere — and for good reason.
In this deep dive, we’ll unpack why this humble tracksuit is dominating wardrobes, how celebrities and Gen Z are wearing it, its gender-neutral appeal and cultural cachet, plus plenty of killer style tips and fashion hacks to elevate your look.
What Is the Essentials Tracksuit Anyway?
Before we go any further: no, it’s not just “a comfy tracksuit”. When people talk about the Essentials tracksuit, they’re usually referring to the collection from Fear of God Essentials — the diffusion line from designer Jerry Lorenzo that’s built a cult following thanks to premium fabrics, minimalist branding, and an easy-to-love aesthetic.
What sets it apart?
- Oversized silhouettes for that effortless drape
- Neutral palettes (think: foggy greys, muted olives, cream)
- Minimal logos, maximal vibes
- Ultra-soft fabric that feels as good as it looks
It’s become less about “sport” and more about lifestyle — wearable from couch to cafe with zero compromise.
Celebrity Sightings: Who’s Wearing It?
Celebrities have been instrumental in turning the Essentials tracksuit from a whisper in fashion circles into a full-on roar.
Street Style Royalty
Every fashion week season seems to usher in a new parade of A-listers in full tracksuit fits. From Hailey Bieber spotted out in a monochrome cream set to Justin Bieber pairing his with dad sneakers and shades, stars are leaning into the comfort trend hard. Their street style snaps flood Instagram and fuel countless fan edits, prompting surge after surge of interest online.
Musicians in the Mix
The tracksuit has become a favourite for musicians off-stage too. Influential artists with huge Gen Z followings — including viral stars on platforms like TikTok and Spotify Wrapped playlists — rock their Essentials sets between recording sessions and airport runways. It’s practical, it’s photogenic, and let’s be honest: it looks great in stories.
Athletes Taking It Casual
Even elite athletes have been spotted embracing the tracksuit for downtime. When pro footballers and basketball stars swap jerseys for Essentials, it sends a clear message: comfort is chic.
How Gen Z Styles Their Tracksuit (And Makes It Look Fresh)
Gen Z didn’t just adopt the trend — they turbocharged it. Their approach to styling the Essentials tracksuit is playful, experimental, and absolutely social-media friendly.
1. Layer Up Like a Pro
One of the reasons this tracksuit is so Instagrammable? It’s like a blank canvas. Gen Zers love layering cropped tops, oversized jackets or even button-down shirts over their sets for visual impact and a bit of personality.
Style tip: Try a longline trench or denim jacket over your tracksuit for texture contrast.
2. Sneakers Are a Statement
Sure, sliders work — but fashion-forward wearers often pair the tracksuit with bold trainers: think chunky dad shoes or colourful runners that bring the look to life.
Style tip: Match your sneakers to a subtle accent in your outfit (e.g. pastel socks or a cap) to tie the whole vibe together.
3. Accessories? Absolutely.
From baguette bags to tinted sunnies and chunky chains, the accessories amplify the outfit. Throw on some layered necklaces or a bucket hat and suddenly, the tracksuit isn’t just comfy — it’s curated.
Gender-Neutral Appeal: A Fashion Equaliser
One of the coolest things about the Essentials tracksuit? It laughs in the face of gendered fashion norms.
Universally Loved
People of all genders rock this trend — and that’s partly because the fit is intentionally unisex. The oversized cut doesn’t cling to traditional “masculine” or “feminine” lines, making it a truly inclusive wardrobe piece.
Breaking Down Barriers
Fashion used to be stricter about what’s “for him” or “for her”. Not anymore. On TikTok and BeReal alike, you’ll see everyone from non-binary creators to style-savvy influencers remixing their tracksuits in ways that defy labels — and look great doing it.
Cultural Trends: From Athleisure to Everyday Wear
If there’s one thing the fashion world has learned over the past decade, it’s this: comfort sells — and it’s not going anywhere.
Athleisure’s Evolution
Athleisure started as casual wear you could exercise in. But with the rise of premium hoodies and joggers, that definition has evolved. The Essentials tracksuit isn’t just athleisure — it’s everywear. Whether you’re working from home, heading to a gallery opening, or grabbing coffee with friends, it fits.
Social Media and Style Cycles
Social platforms are the runway now. A single viral reel showing a creative tracksuit fit can send searches and sales through the roof. That’s part of why this trend has such staying power — trends used to last a season, but now they last as long as the feeds that fuel them.
Style Hacks: Make Your Tracksuit Look Luxe
So you’ve got an Essentials tracksuit — great! Now, let’s make it iconic with a few fashion hacks.
1. Belt It Out
Add a belt bag or waist belt to break up the silhouette. This instantly gives shape to an oversized set and takes it from casual to curated.
2. Tuck It (Strategically)
Tuck in the front of your hoodie or sweatshirt slightly. It’s a small move with big visual payoff — especially in photos.
3. Colour Block With Confidence
If you’ve got more than one set, try mixing and matching. A cream top with slate bottoms? Unexpected and fresh.
4. Go Tongue-Out Bold With Shoes
Slide into a pair of brightly coloured trainers or high-contrast boots. Contrasts make photos pop and highlight your style chops.
5. Add Unexpected Textures
Silk scarf? Leather crossbody? Retro shades? Textured accessories bring dimension to the comfy base of the tracksuit.
Street Style Looks We Can’t Stop Loving
Here are some trending outfit formulas you’ll see everywhere:
- Monochrome Magic: Head-to-toe in the same neutral shade — effortless and Instagram-ready.
- Tracksuit + Tailored Coat: High-low fashion that’s surprisingly chic.
- Cropped Tee + Oversized Bottoms: A flattering twist on a classic fit.
- Accessories On 10: Chains, glasses, beanies — the more curated, the better.
Why the Essentials Tracksuit Isn’t Going Away
The magic of this fashion moment? It’s democratised style without sacrificing aesthetics. You don’t need to conform — you just need to express. The Essentials tracksuit ticks so many boxes:
Comfortable
Stylish
Gender-neutral
Influencer-approved
And endlessly remixable
It taps into something bigger than fashion: a desire for clothes that feel good and look good — especially in an era when we’re living more of our lives online and on the move.
Final Thoughts: Your Tracksuit, Your Rules
The Essentials tracksuit isn’t a trend that fades at the end of the season. It’s a style staple that’s been elevated by culture, creativity, and real people making it their own. Whether you’re into minimal chic, bold sneakers, or unpredictable layering, there’s a place for this piece in every wardrobe.
So next time someone asks if a tracksuit is “fashionable”, just send them a street-style reel and a few celeb snaps. Because this isn’t joggers and a hoodie anymore — it’s a statement.
