I remember how popular these wide leg and nasty synthetic track pants were back in the ‘70s. Unisex, sporty, and very Adidas. My Dad had a green pair and my brother a blue pair. I wanted a bright red pair with white stripes down the side when I was six or seven years old. Instead I got a blue pair that formed part of my phys-ed capsule for school, and was not impressed.
The Modern Retro track pant has been a fringe trend for five years, and is quite the acquired taste. It’s gaining a bit of momentum with sports brands like Adidas bringing back the look, and mainstream retailers like Anne Taylor incorporating the vibe their own way.
These athletic pants are beyond body type because they’re baggy with an elastic and drawstring waist, hanging straight without much shape. If you’re curvy on the lower half, you’ll fill them out a little more, but they won’t look structured. Most of the styles are full-length, but some are cropped. Many have studs down the side seams that create interesting slits on the hems.
I think they look too athletic for this leg of my style journey, although I reserve the right to change my mind. I like the idea, and the look on others. I LOVE that they remind me of the ‘70s. I like that they aren’t knitted like joggers and leggings, and have some room. I love them combined with dressy pieces for a Sporty Luxe effect. They look fresh.
Here are three fun ways of styling them with casual and dressy items to create interesting outfit juxtapositions. Choose any colour palette.
LA Casual
Combine retro track pants with a semi-tucked hoodie or tee, denim jacket, and white sneakers. Finish off the look with a structured handbag and some bling.
Relaxed Tuxedo
Combine retro track pants — cropped or full-length — with a graphic tee and dressy blazer like a tuxedo jacket. Finish off the look with dressy flats or heels, and a structured chain strap bag for glitz. Add a bit of bling. Throw the sneakers back into this combination if you like.
Easy Glam
Fashion blogger Veronica from Bittersweet Colours wore retro track pants to perfection fives years ago, the first time we featured her on YLF. She combined them with a relaxed pullover, but the rest of the outfit components were dressy. Formal coat, structured bag, and pretty wedged pumps. A very creative combination and way ahead of the time.
Over to you. What do you think of the modern retro track pant? Will you be wearing the look?