The Evolution of Workout Leggings and Varley's Impact on the Industry
The workout leggings we know and love today have come a long way since their humble beginnings. From the basic cotton leggings of the past to the high-performance, fashion-forward designs of today, workout leggings have experienced a significant evolution. One brand that has been at the forefront of this change is Varley. In this blog post, we'll delve into the evolution of workout leggings and how Varley's innovations have impacted the industry.
The Early Days of Workout Leggings
The origins of workout leggings can be traced back to the 1960s and 1970s when women began wearing stretchy, form-fitting pants for exercise and dance classes. Made from cotton and Lycra, these early leggings offered a comfortable and practical alternative to traditional athletic wear. However, they lacked the advanced materials and designs found in modern workout leggings.
The 1980s and 1990s: The Aerobics Era
The 1980s and 1990s saw a boom in the popularity of aerobics and group fitness classes, bringing workout leggings into the mainstream. Bold colors, patterns, and high-cut leotards were the norm, with leggings often featuring stirrups or foot straps. While these early workout leggings were more fashion-focused than performance-driven, they paved the way for the activewear industry's growth.
The 2000s: The Birth of Athleisure
The early 2000s marked the beginning of the athleisure trend, with workout leggings becoming an everyday wardrobe staple. Brands like Lululemon and Athleta emerged, offering high-quality, fashionable leggings that could be worn for both fitness and casual occasions. This period also saw the introduction of moisture-wicking and compression materials, enhancing the performance capabilities of workout leggings.
The Rise of Varley
Varley was founded in 2012 by husband-and-wife duo Ben and Lara Mead, with a mission to create performance-driven, stylish activewear for modern women. Drawing inspiration from their London and Los Angeles backgrounds, the brand has become synonymous with innovative designs, high-quality materials, and fashion-forward aesthetics. Varley's commitment to merging function and style has played a significant role in shaping the workout leggings industry.
Varley's Innovations in Fabric Technology
One of the key ways Varley has impacted the industry is through its innovative fabric technologies. The brand's Var-Tech fabric, designed for high-intensity workouts, offers excellent compression, support, and breathability. On the other hand, their Lolux fabric is perfect for low-intensity activities, providing a soft feel and ample support. By creating leggings with specific materials for different workout intensities, Varley has set a new standard for performance-driven activewear.
Focus on Comfort and Fit
Varley's emphasis on comfort and fit has also contributed to the evolution of workout leggings. The brand's leggings often feature high waists, seamless construction, and four-way stretch materials, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit. This attention to detail has influenced other activewear brands to prioritize comfort and fit in their designs.
Stylish and Fashion-Forward Designs
Varley has played a significant role in making workout leggings a fashion statement. Their leggings are available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and styles, catering to various personal tastes and preferences. By consistently creating fashion-forward activewear, Varley has helped to establish workout leggings as not only functional but also stylish wardrobe staples.
Ethical and Sustainable Practices
Varley's commitment to ethical and sustainable practices has influenced the activewear industry's shift toward more responsible production methods. The brand maintains high ethical standards in its manufacturing processes and is continuously working to minimize its environmental footprint. This focus on sustainability has encouraged other activewear brands to follow suit, leading to a more conscientious industry overall.
The Future of Workout Leggings and Varley's Ongoing Impact
The evolution of workout leggings shows no signs of slowing down, with advancements in materials, designs, and sustainability continuing to shape the industry. Varley remains at the forefront of these developments, constantly pushing the boundaries of what workout leggings can offer in terms of performance, style, and responsibility. As the activewear market continues to grow, Varley's influence on the industry is likely to remain significant.
The evolution of workout leggings has been shaped by numerous factors, including fashion trends, technological advancements, and an increased focus on sustainability. Varley has played a pivotal role in this evolution, with their innovative designs, fabric technologies, and ethical practices contributing to the development of the activewear industry. As we look forward to the future of workout leggings, it's clear that Varley will continue to be a trailblazer, setting new standards for performance, style, and responsibility in activewear.
