The Rise of Athleisure: Is it really o.k. to wear yoga pants all day?

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“It seems that it is now totally acceptable to wear your workout outfit all day, every day,” says studio owner Simone De La Rue. “Even if you haven’t worked out." - And why not?! With the ever more fashionable designs coming through in sportswear, you can understand why most of us want to show it off a little further than just within the confines of your gym walls!

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Although this trend may be completely normal in the UK; Paris- one of the most prevalent fashion capitals of the world sees it differently. "You do not see people in Paris walking around in their gym clothes—it’s not seen as appropriate,” pointed out by Live The Process designer Robyn Berkley. So this begs the question, is there a rule for wearing your workout gear? How do you take your workout gear from the gym (if you've ACTUALLY been to the gym) into your daily routine? We talk about the 5 golden rules of how to do so, right here.........

Rule number 1: Keep on trend

A year or so ago fitness wear didn't really have trends, it was generally all black, but now it is seasonal. It used to be all about black leggings with mesh panels (although you'll still see this trend creeping back through), now its big patterns and lots of colour blocking.

Keep on trend with Timpanys: Blue Nikki Print Compression Leggings £64.00. These leggings take on the bold pattern trend, whilst also encompassing the older mesh style trend- giving you a bit of both worlds. The print has been inspired by the work of the artist Niki de Saint-Phalle and translated into bold and graphic shapes. Buy here.

Rule Number 2: Invest in pieces that mix fashion with function

First and foremost its got to be practical; you can't be wondering down the street in see through leggings (lets be honest), therefore quality is key. Invest in a good pair of leggings made from perfomance fabrics that are quick drying, odor resistent and moisture wicking. (The above leggings provide this, shop the full collection here) Compression fabrics are super flattering, so opt for these for all day confidence.

Rule Number 3: Accessorise properly

One accessory can take your whole outfit from gym to street. It can be as simple as that; the right sunglasses, a structured jacket, or a shirt tied around your waist. The key is that the piece you choose has a sporty, sleek feel itself.

For example; don't add a vintage lace jacket to your Nike leggings or cat eye sunglasses to your zip up Sweaty Betty jacket.

(Sweaty Betty 'God Save the Queen' Limited Edition cape available in-store at Timpanys for £69.99)

Rule Number 4: Dress for the occasion

Obviously don't just wear a sports bra and tiny gym shorts when your popping into Starbucks to grab a coffee (no matter how hot it is outside). Be appropriate and sensible; if you are going for lunch in a restaurant, make sure to wear full length leggings. If you opt for a open back gym vest, throw a jacket over to cover up- lets just call it 'athleisure etiquette'.

Rule Number 5: If in doubt, stick to neutrals

If your not comfortable in the current trending bright patterns and colours, then go neutral. There is nothing wrong with keeping it simple- black, white and grey is an activewear fail safe.

We have some great leggings online that are just one block colour all over- this is a great way to bring colour into your outfit(when you start to feel braver), without feeling to 'out there'. Some of us are more understated, and that's ok! Style is about what works for you, and how you wear it.

Blue compression leggings with mesh inserts £64.00. Buy here.