If there’s one outfit that’s managed to break through the generational divide, dominate TikTok feeds, and sneak into both high-fashion runways and lazy Sunday lounging, it’s the Essentials Tracksuit. What started as Fear of God’s casual off-duty collection has officially become the UK’s go-to uniform – whether you’re strutting through Shoreditch, kicking back in Manchester, or layering up for Leeds’ unpredictable weather.
Let’s dive into how the Essentials Tracksuit is styling up in different UK cities, the celebrity inspo driving its hype, and why Gen Z and beyond can’t stop wearing it.
London: The Fashion Capital Giving the Tracksuit a High-Street Edge
In London, the Essentials Tracksuit isn’t just leisurewear – it’s a statement. The capital thrives on blending streetwear with luxury, and Essentials fits perfectly into that narrative.
Walk through Shoreditch or Camden, and you’ll see the neutral-toned tracksuits paired with chunky trainers, oversized bomber jackets, and a sleek cap. Head to Knightsbridge, and you’ll spot fashionistas throwing on their Essentials set with designer handbags and Y2K sunglasses, proving that tracksuits can look luxe with the right accessories.
London Fashion Hack:
Layer your tracksuit under a trench coat. It’s effortlessly chic, weather-appropriate, and screams “city cool.”
Manchester: Sporty, Bold, and Music Scene-Approved
Manchester has always had a strong connection to sporty streetwear, with football culture and the local music scene shaping its fashion DNA. Essentials fits right in with Mancunian style – think oversized fits, bold trainers, and a bit of swagger.
It’s not unusual to see Manchester United fans rocking an Essentials hoodie post-match or spotting club-goers pairing the tracksuit with statement trainers for a pre-night-out look. The city loves a comfortable yet confident outfit, and Essentials nails that vibe.
Manchester Fashion Hack:
Pair your tracksuit with retro football trainers like Adidas Gazelles for that perfect “football casual” aesthetic.
Leeds: The Effortless Uni-Cool Vibe
Leeds has a huge student population, and the Essentials Tracksuit is practically the campus uniform. Whether you’re dashing between lectures, chilling in Hyde Park, or grabbing late-night takeaway, the tracksuit strikes the perfect balance between “put together” and “I woke up five minutes ago.”
Here, it’s less about flashy accessories and more about functionality. Oversized tote bags, simple white trainers, and minimal jewellery keep the look clean, casual, and wearable every day.
Leeds Fashion Hack:
Add a baseball cap and some layered silver chains – minimal effort, maximum impact.
Celebrity Influence: From Bieber to UK Rappers
The Essentials Tracksuit has gone viral thanks to a mix of Hollywood cool and UK music scene hype. Justin Bieber and Hailey Bieber are poster children for Essentials, often snapped in head-to-toe looks that ooze effortless style.
Across the pond, UK rappers like Dave, Stormzy, and Central Cee have brought Essentials into the UK spotlight. Their streetwear-heavy wardrobes, combined with the tracksuit’s neutral palette, make it a no-brainer for both stage and street appearances.
And let’s not forget Maya Jama, who’s been spotted in cosy loungewear looks that prove the tracksuit isn’t just for the boys.
Why Gen Z Loves It: TikTok Trends and Gender-Neutral Cool
Gen Z has officially crowned the Essentials Tracksuit as a wardrobe staple. Why?
- Gender-Neutral Appeal – The oversized fits and neutral shades mean everyone can wear it without overthinking “menswear” or “womenswear.” It’s fashion without boundaries.
- TikTok Power – From styling hauls to “get ready with me” videos, Essentials pieces rack up millions of views. The hashtag #EssentialsTracksuit is a fashion rabbit hole you won’t want to leave.
- Comfort Meets Cool – Gen Z won’t sacrifice comfort for style – and with Essentials, they don’t have to.
How to Style It: Fashion Hacks You’ll Actually Use
The beauty of the Essentials Tracksuit is that it’s versatile enough to work across every city and lifestyle. Here’s how to make it your own:
- Go Monochrome: Stick to one shade (grey, beige, or black) and keep accessories in the same colour family for a sleek look.
- Mix and Match: Pair the Essentials hoodie with denim jeans or swap the joggers for cargo pants. It keeps the look fresh without ditching comfort.
- Smart-Casual Switch-Up: Throw on a blazer over your hoodie – yes, it works, and yes, you’ll look like you’re headed to a Soho House brunch.
- Seasonal Layering: In winter, pair with puffer jackets; in summer, strip it down to Essentials shorts and sliders.
Cultural Trends: From Football Pitches to Fashion Weeks
The Essentials Tracksuit has become more than just an outfit – it’s a cultural touchstone.
- Football Fans: Adopted as part of the casuals subculture, the tracksuit has earned a spot in post-match pub outfits.
- Music Festivals: Neutral tones and oversized cuts make it a comfy choice for weekend-long raves and festivals.
- Work-From-Home Chic: The pandemic might be over, but the love for stylish loungewear lives on. Essentials has filled that gap between Zoom-appropriate and Netflix-ready.
Why the Essentials Tracksuit Works Everywhere
From London street style to Manchester match days, from Leeds student life to festival fields, the Essentials Tracksuit adapts to its environment like a chameleon. Its gender-neutral cuts, versatile colours, and easy-to-style aesthetic make it the perfect blank canvas for anyone’s personal style.
It’s not just a trend – it’s a lifestyle. And in true UK fashion, it’s proof that we can take something simple and turn it into a cultural phenomenon.
Final Word: Essentials Is Here to Stay
The UK has a long love affair with the tracksuit, but the Essentials Tracksuit has given it a fresh, modern upgrade. Whether you’re flexing in London, keeping it sporty in Manchester, or staying laid-back in Leeds, it’s the outfit that adapts to every mood, moment, and city vibe.
So next time you’re debating between dressing up or dressing down, remember – Essentials doesn’t make you choose. It’s both. And that’s exactly why it’s become the UK’s new everyday uniform.