Fashion

How to wear a tracksuit and look chic – no matter your age

The main secret? A pair of shoes that will make the outfit sing.
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In an era where the lines between comfort and style blur, the question lies – how to wear a tracksuit and look chic?

If you can believe it, there used to be a time when a pair of trackies was a symbol of activewear worn in situations where comfort was of highest importance. But in 2026, the question of how to wear a tracksuit is much more complex. Instead of gyms, airports or lazy Sundays, the whole of the fashion world has opened its arms up to the idea of a tracksuit. These days, you can spot them on the catwalks and in the front rows.

A tracksuit is one of those modern-day essentials that coexist with sophisticated garments without losing its original purpose (feeling comfortable!) in the process. What used to be about practicality has now become a conversation that revolves around contrast.

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What's more, it's probably why a tracksuit has become such a key part of women's wardrobes across different generations, with an outfit formula that's super easy to follow – with just a few minor tweaks in the form of accessories and silhouettes. Essentially, it's the same pair of sporty wide-leg trousers, interpreted by point-of-views that differ in their origin. Sometimes, the difference between a relaxed look and a sophisticated one is not in the hero piece, but in the aesthetic intention that helps build the rest of the look around it.

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Approaching this styling masterclass via women of different generation, there's something that connects every chic tracksuit look. It's not about trying to disguise the sporty trouser as something too elegant or rely too much on its athletic aura. That is to say, the tracksuit isn't here to take all the attention – it's main purpose is to play into the unexpected when paired with some unexpected footwear. This summer, skip the trainers and embrace elegant shoes, like heeled flip flops, ballet flats and kitten heels.

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This mother-daughter influencer duo, Julia Kammerer and Yvonne Schuppler-Kammerer, know how to play into trends while respecting their generational differences. For Julia, it's a pair of minimalist flip flops and a trendy bag, while Yvonne embraces a classic black pump and a structured designer bag. There's also a difference in wearing their top – a cropped, zip-up for the daughter, and a classic, oversized white shirt for the mum.

For years, fashion has tried to convince us that certain garments belonged exclusively to certain spaces, ages or lifestyles. But, as demonstrated by this joyous duo, the myth of how to wear a tracksuit and look chic is a myth no more. Whether it's your trip to the gym, a night out or a trip into the world of quiet luxury, one thing is clear – a tracksuit can do it all.

We have curated pieces inspired by the two looks, courtesy of Julia and Yvonne.

Look 1: teens, 20s and 30s

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Moritz Scholz
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Adidas Originals Premium Essentials Cropped Poplin Shirt in Blue Stripe with Zip

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Adidas Originals FB TP LOOSE trousers

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Stone & Mason The Natural Quinta Bag

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ASOS DESIGN Harlow Toe Thong Wedge Sandals in Black

Save when you shop with these adidas discount codes at checkout.

Look 2: 40s, 50s and beyond

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Moritz Scholz
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M&S Pure Cotton Oversized Shirt

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Adidas Originals FB TP LOOSE trousers

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& Other Stories Criss-Cross Leather Slingback Pumps

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Coach Chelsea Shoulder Bag 36

Save when you shop with these & Other Stories discount codes at checkout.

A version of this article originally appeared in Glamour España.