TRES SPORTY
Fashion just got a little racier with the addition of sporty separates to the mix. Stella McCartney launched the trend when she worked with Adidas in 2004 to create her own line of sports attire, and the look has caught on. Don't reserve this trend for the weekend. The right mix of T-shirt dresses, jumpsuits, bomber jackets, track pants, hoodies, leggings, visors and racer-back tanks paired with minimal basics can create a medal-winning finish.
We'll introduce you to the winning lineup, plus give you a list of some items you may already have in your closet that you can add to the look to make it work on casual Fridays.
THE T-SHIRT DRESS
Think body-conscious, such as this dress from Marc by Marc Jacobs, when you shop for the sporty T-shirt dress. To make the look even more sporty, add solid ballet flats, leggings or even a chic bomber jacket.
THE RACER-BACK TANK
Take all those lessons you learned about layering and apply them heavily here. If you wear a tank without a top, go for several instead of flying solo. And color can range from the boldest and brightest to monochromatic black and white. Pair your tanks with a skirt to give yourself a casual yet sleek look.
THE BOMBER
Don't go "Top Gun" with a leather bomber jacket. Think more casual. It makes a nice alternative to the hoodie in a chilly office. We like this linen version from Marc Jacobs with is rounded collar and oversized pockets.
THE JUMPSUIT
Don't think you're going to look like a mechanic or a flight school instructor in this outfit. You need the right accessories to make it chic. Start with a jumpsuit such as this version from Alice + Olivia. Then accentuate the look with accessories. Think pumps and a skinny belt and you get the idea. Throw a tank underneath for an additional layer, and even grab a hoodie to complete the look.
THE HOODIE
Ah, the coziest of all cozy pieces. Juicy Couture created a whole company around the high-end hoodie. You can find comfort in it on a cool night and look chic while walking the dog. But the hoodie can get a little dressed up. Wear one over a mini dress, add a pair of leggings underneath and then grab the largest handbag you own. You'll look chicer than when you go to the gym but still have the casual mode.
TRACK PANTS
We saved the toughest look for last. This item tends to be seen on mobsters on "The Sopranos" and teen-age girls at the mall. But if you add a black blazer and metallic heels, suddenly you have a very sporty look without the too casual overtones.
in the details
Here are a few more pieces that can add that sporty feel to any outfit:
Leggings -- they work under almost any dress that you would consider sporty.
Visors -- instantly look like you've spent the afternoon at the tennis courts on your way to and from work.
Polo shirts -- your significant other's are a best bet here. You want it loose. Throw on some skinny jeans and a striped belt to complete the look.
Fasteners -- nothing says sporty quite like Velcro. Even zipper details on your shoes give your outfit that look.
