"Workout-wear" is a subjective term. For some, it can mean baggy T-shirts and leggings; for others, it’s seamlessly coordinating lycra sets that will see you through to brunch.
For Parisian athleisure label, Ernest Leoty, it can also be chic – wearable interchangeably from the gym to the office and beyond. Seeing is believing…
Inspired by 19th Century corsets, (in fact, the very name 'Ernest Leoty' is an homage to a fabled corset maker of the period), the brand gives us ample reason to use "sport" and "couture" in the same breath. Hand-crafted and dyed in-house, its form-fitting crop top – with a topstitched seam that nods to classical vintage designs – melds functionality and luxury to bring both structure and style to the table.
Removed from a workout context – and teamed with an elegantly minimalist dress – the separate’s siren red hue comes into its own as a focal point and (comfortably) cinching layer. Rejina Pyo’s draped-sleeve flared number fits the bill as the parfait partner and base layer, meanwhile By Far’s croc-effect leather shoulder bag will bring a final flourish of contrast to the scene.
When thrust into boardroom territory, the Louise top continues to swim instead of sink – and very compellingly, too. Worn alongside Hillier Bartley’s checked double-breasted blazer and skinny trousers, and bolstered with a corresponding pop of colour care of Manu Atelier’s leather shoulder bag, the ensemble epitomises 'power dressing' in its finest hour.
Of course, lest we forget where this whole thing started... To take the top back to its sporty roots, we’re looking to the moisture-wicking Saskia leggings in navy – also by Ernest Leoty – and, if yoga is on the cards, an adidas by Stella McCartney mat to restore balance. Namaste!
Make your activewear go further. Shop all three looks here:
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