For decades, American designers such as Ralph Lauren, Donna Karen and Anne Klein have spearheaded a certain all-American look that finds its roots in preppy sportswear. It's timely now that activewear is gaining traction around the world as retailers and designers alike continue to focus on the growing athleisure category.
Summer is the perfect time for clothes that switch seamlessly from exercise to everyday wear with ease, much to the chagrin of traditionalists who prefer an orderly dress code for different occasions. It's the perfect inspiration for dressing during the warmer months - relaxed, versatile and effortless.
More recent advocates upholding the American sportswear custom include Tory Burch, who this year announced the launch of her Tory Sport diffusion line to her growing empire, focusing on preppy separates inspired by the likes of sailing, tennis and golf. Those ideals have also found their way through to emerging designers such as Trademark, a brand focusing on traditional sportswear with a Royal Tenenbaum/Wes Anderson bent (keeping the hipster set happy), and is created by Burch's former husband's daughters, Louisa and Pookie Burch.
And while it's tempting to drag out that hackneyed nautical look once again, the idea is to focus on more relaxed separates with a mix of sports motifs and complementary collegiate colours (maroon, red, navy, yellow).
