If fashion had a group chat, the Essentials tracksuit would be the mate who never tries too hard but always looks unreal. Understated? Yes. Basic? Never. Born from the minimalist magic of Fear of God and its diffusion line Essentials, this laid-back co-ord has become the unofficial uniform of Gen Z, street-style stars, and anyone who wants to look put-together without actually trying.
Designed by Jerry Lorenzo, the Essentials aesthetic is rooted in elevated simplicity: neutral palettes, relaxed silhouettes, premium fabrics, and that quietly iconic logo. It’s less “look at me” and more “you wish you looked this chill”.
But how exactly did a humble hoodie-and-jogger combo become a cultural flex? And more importantly, how are people wearing it right now? Let’s get into it.
From LA Lounging to Global Street Style
The Essentials tracksuit was born out of West Coast cool. Think sun-faded concrete, oversized fits, and an effortless vibe straight out of Los Angeles. But it didn’t stay local for long.
Thanks to social media, resale platforms, and a few well-timed paparazzi shots, the tracksuit went global. In London, it’s layered under long wool coats with crisp trainers. In New York City, it’s paired with chunky boots and statement sunglasses. Across Europe and beyond, it’s become shorthand for “I understand fashion, but I’m not shouting about it.”
The genius lies in its neutrality. Taupe, cream, charcoal, moss — these are colours that slot seamlessly into any wardrobe. You can wear the full set for maximum impact or split it up for a high-low mix. Either way, it reads intentional.
Celebrity Co-Signs: The Power of the Pap Shot
Let’s be honest: no modern fashion phenomenon is complete without a celebrity seal of approval.
When Justin Bieber stepped out in an oversized Essentials hoodie and joggers, the internet took notes. His wife, Hailey Bieber, gave it her signature model-off-duty spin — slicked-back bun, gold hoops, mini shoulder bag. Suddenly, the tracksuit wasn’t just comfy; it was aspirational.
Even style disruptors like Kanye West (long a champion of neutral-toned athleisure) helped cement the idea that muted sweats could be high fashion. And on the UK scene, rappers like Central Cee have been spotted blending streetwear staples with luxury layers, reinforcing the tracksuit’s cross-cultural appeal.
Meanwhile, supermodels such as Bella Hadid have proven that even the most photographed women in the world reach for a slouchy co-ord when they’re off the runway.
The message? If it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for your coffee run.
Why Gen Z Is Obsessed
Gen Z doesn’t do uncomfortable. They grew up in an era of working from home, side hustles, and blurred lines between social life and screen time. They want clothes that move with them — from lectures to late-night link-ups.
The Essentials tracksuit ticks every box:
- Gender-neutral appeal – No rigid tailoring, no hyper-feminine or hyper-masculine detailing. Just clean lines and relaxed cuts.
- Logo, but subtle – The branding is there, but it’s not screaming. It’s the anti-hype flex.
- Instagram-ready – Oversized silhouettes photograph beautifully. Add good lighting and you’ve got a grid-worthy fit.
- Layer-friendly – Perfect for transitional weather (which, let’s face it, is most of the British year).
There’s also something comforting about the fit. In uncertain times, soft fabrics and roomy shapes feel like wearable reassurance. Fashion, but make it therapy.
How to Style an Essentials Tracksuit (Without Looking Like You’ve Just Rolled Out of Bed)
Yes, it’s loungewear at heart. No, you don’t have to look like you’re heading to the corner shop in slippers. Here’s how to elevate it.
1. The Smart-Casual Switch-Up
Throw a structured wool coat over your tracksuit. Add leather trainers or minimalist boots. Finish with a crossbody bag. The contrast between tailored outerwear and relaxed layers? Chef’s kiss.
2. The Monochrome Moment
Stick to one tonal family — all cream, all grey, all black. It elongates your silhouette and looks expensive. Even better if your trainers match.
3. The Streetwear Remix
Layer with a puffer, high socks, and statement trainers. Add a beanie or cap. This is where you can lean into that effortless, off-duty vibe.
4. The Feminine Edge
For a softer spin, pair the hoodie with tailored trousers instead of joggers, or wear the joggers with a cropped top and blazer. Gold jewellery instantly lifts the look.
5. The Airport Aesthetic
Arguably where the Essentials tracksuit shines brightest. Oversized hoodie, matching joggers, sleek trainers, noise-cancelling headphones. You’ll glide through departures looking like you’ve got a stylist on speed dial.
The Gender-Neutral Glow-Up
One of the most refreshing aspects of the Essentials tracksuit is its universal design. The cuts are intentionally relaxed, allowing anyone — regardless of gender identity — to make it their own.
Couples share sets. Friends swap hoodies. Styling becomes less about “menswear” or “womenswear” and more about vibe. The oversized fit means you can size up for drama or size down for a more fitted silhouette. It’s fluid, flexible, and reflective of how modern fashion is shifting away from strict binaries.
And let’s not ignore the power of the neutral palette. Earthy tones feel inclusive — they don’t lean too sweet or too severe. They just work.
Cultural Currency: More Than Just a Tracksuit
Streetwear has long been a reflection of cultural movements, and the Essentials tracksuit sits at the intersection of comfort culture, minimalism, and quiet luxury.
In a post-logo-mania world, subtle branding feels sophisticated. Instead of flashy prints, we’re seeing a move towards craftsmanship and silhouette. Essentials captures that sweet spot: accessible price point (compared to high fashion), but with designer-level credibility.
It’s also deeply tied to the rise of “soft life” aesthetics — prioritising ease, balance, and self-care. The tracksuit symbolises a refusal to suffer for style. You can look good and be comfortable. Revolutionary, really.
Fashion Hacks: Making It Work All Year Round
British weather is unpredictable at best. Luckily, the Essentials tracksuit is seasonless with the right tweaks.
- Winter: Layer thermals underneath, add a longline coat and chunky scarf. Opt for darker shades like charcoal or deep brown.
- Spring: Swap heavy trainers for lighter, low-profile styles. Push up the hoodie sleeves for a relaxed finish.
- Summer evenings: Drape the hoodie over your shoulders and wear the joggers with a vest or oversized tee.
- Autumn: Introduce texture — suede trainers, ribbed socks, wool caps.
Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to tailor your joggers slightly if they pool too much at the ankle. A subtle adjustment can sharpen the whole look.
Is It Worth the Hype?
In short: yes — if you value versatility.
The Essentials tracksuit isn’t about chasing trends; it’s about investing in a foundational piece you’ll wear on repeat. It transitions from sofa to street to social plans with minimal effort. It plays well with other wardrobe staples. And it feels current without being time-stamped.
Fashion cycles move quickly, but comfort with credibility? That’s here to stay.
The Final Word: Effortless Is the New Extra
We’ve moved on from the era of squeezing into uncomfortable silhouettes for the sake of aesthetics. Today’s style icons understand that confidence comes from ease.
The Essentials tracksuit embodies that shift. It’s relaxed but refined. Minimal but meaningful. A little bit LA, a little bit London, and entirely now.
So whether you’re styling it with designer trainers, layering it under a tailored coat, or simply wearing it for a Sunday reset, one thing’s certain: this isn’t just a tracksuit. It’s a lifestyle.v