There’s a reason the Essentials Tracksuit is popping up everywhere from Soho coffee runs to Manchester gig queues. Equal parts laid-back and luxe, this cult-favourite co-ord has gone from gym gear to streetwear staple faster than you can say “Where did you get that?” It’s the kind of outfit that works whether you’re sipping matcha in Shoreditch or braving the wind off the Mersey.
Let’s take a fashion road trip across the UK to see how each city is styling the Essentials Tracksuit, why celebrities can’t get enough of it, and how to wear yours like you just stepped off a magazine shoot — without actually trying that hard.
London: Luxe Minimalism Meets Coffee Culture
In London, the Essentials Tracksuit is practically part of the city uniform — especially in neighbourhoods like Notting Hill, Hackney, and Shoreditch. Picture it: oversized hoodie, wide-leg joggers, chunky gold hoops, and New Balance trainers. Add a designer tote bag slung casually over your arm and a flat white from an indie café, and you’ve nailed the look.
Celebrity inspo? Think of model Jourdan Dunn, who’s been spotted in muted Essentials sets while running errands in West London, and footballer Bukayo Saka, pairing his with crisp white sneakers and a cap.
Style tip: For a capital-city chic vibe, stick to earthy tones — beige, charcoal, sage green — and layer with a structured wool coat. The contrast of tailoring with streetwear is peak London style.
Manchester: Edgy, Night-Out-Ready Streetwear
In Manchester, the Essentials Tracksuit takes on an edgier, music-scene-infused twist. Oversized hoodies are worn slightly cropped, joggers are cuffed just above statement trainers, and accessories lean bold — chunky chains, crossbody bags, and tinted sunglasses (yes, even when it’s cloudy).
Celebrity inspo? Local lad Aitch is a walking advertisement for laid-back northern swagger in his Essentials fits, while pop queen Leigh-Anne Pinnock has been known to dress hers up with strappy heels and a slicked-back bun for that “I could be going to a studio session or a VIP party” look.
Style tip: Manchester’s unpredictable weather means layering is key — throw on a puffer jacket or oversized varsity bomber over your tracksuit, and you’re ready for anything from a quick pub pint to an unplanned afterparty.
Leeds: Sporty with a Hint of Retro
Leeds loves a sporty aesthetic with a nostalgic edge. Essentials Tracksuits here are often paired with old-school trainers (think Adidas Gazelles or Nike Air Max 90s) and vintage caps. Expect to see a lot of pastel and monochrome looks at Trinity Leeds or around Hyde Park.
Celebrity inspo? Think of England cricketer Harry Brook off-duty — comfortable but still looking put-together, and with that subtle nod to athletic roots.
Style tip: Lean into the throwback feel with retro accessories — a bum bag worn crossbody, a beanie in colder months, and maybe even a windbreaker for a full 90s revival moment.
Birmingham: Colour Pops and Bold Statements
Brum is not afraid of colour. While other cities lean toward neutrals, Birmingham’s fashion crowd often reaches for brighter Essentials Tracksuits in lilac, teal, or burnt orange. Paired with standout sneakers (the rarer the better) and fresh trims, it’s a statement without shouting.
Celebrity inspo? Rapper Mist brings that vibrant street energy, often mixing designer sneakers with casual co-ords, showing how Brummies blend statement and comfort with ease.
Style tip: If you’re going bold with colour, keep the rest of the outfit simple. Neutral trainers and minimal accessories let the tracksuit do the talking.
Glasgow: Cosy Cool with a Side of Attitude
In Glasgow, it’s all about staying cosy without compromising on style. Essentials hoodies are oversized, joggers have a relaxed fit, and outerwear is king — longline parkas, sherpa-lined denim jackets, or oversized trench coats.
Celebrity inspo? Lewis Capaldi’s laid-back, self-deprecating style embodies that mix of warmth and personality, proving you can be comfortable and still look effortlessly cool.
Style tip: Layer textures. A fleece-lined Essentials hoodie under a leather jacket? Chef’s kiss. Throw in a chunky scarf and you’re winter-ready while still looking Instagram-worthy.
Why Gen Z Has Crowned It the King of Co-ords
For Gen Z, the Essentials Tracksuit ticks every box:
- Gender-neutral? Check.
- Instagrammable? Double check.
- Comfort you can wear to brunch, lectures, and late-night Tesco runs? Absolutely.
The oversized fit speaks to their love of relaxed silhouettes, while the minimal branding makes it versatile enough to be dressed up or down. It’s “quiet luxury” without the scary price tag of designer loungewear, and that’s a vibe Gen Z eats up.
Celebrity Stamp of Approval
From Hailey Bieber to Justin Bieber, Fear of God’s Essentials range has been spotted on more A-listers than you can count. In the UK, footballers, rappers, and influencers have embraced it — it’s become a subtle status symbol, saying, “I know fashion” without needing to wear a logo the size of your torso.
The celebrity influence trickles down fast. One Instagram post of Central Cee in an Essentials hoodie and suddenly every streetwear store in the UK is sold out in that colourway.
Fashion Hacks: Making the Essentials Tracksuit Your Own
Sure, you can wear it as a set straight out of the bag, but why stop there? Here are a few hacks to make yours stand out:
- Mix & Match: Pair your Essentials hoodie with denim cargo trousers, or swap joggers for tailored trousers.
- Layer Smart: Wear a crisp white tee under the hoodie and let it peek out for a relaxed, styled look.
- Add Texture: Suede caps, leather bags, or corduroy jackets add visual depth.
- Play with Footwear: From chunky trainers to sleek loafers, the right shoe changes the whole mood.
- Jewellery Game Strong: Minimal chains, hoop earrings, or layered necklaces elevate the laid-back vibe.
Cultural Trend: The Rise of “Elevated Loungewear”
The Essentials Tracksuit sits firmly in the “elevated loungewear” movement — where comfort-first pieces get a premium, fashion-forward twist. The pandemic years accelerated the shift to casual clothing, but now it’s about how you wear it.
This isn’t the tracksuit your PE teacher wore — it’s a statement of personal style, whether you’re in a West End café or a Leeds record shop.
Final Word: From Pavement to Front Row
Whether you’re strolling down Oxford Street, queuing for a gig in Manchester, or grabbing brunch in Birmingham, the Essentials Tracksuit works everywhere. It’s become a fashion chameleon — adapting to each city’s culture while keeping its core: comfort, versatility, and understated cool.
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