Let’s be real for a second: if you’ve scrolled through TikTok, wandered through Soho, or simply existed on the internet in the last year, you’ve seen it. That perfectly oversized silhouette. That muted, oatmeal-coloured fleece. That tiny little “ESSENTIALS” script that somehow screams quiet luxury without actually screaming at all.
The Essentials Tracksuit—the brainchild of Jerry Lorenzo’s Fear of God sub-label—has officially moved beyond “trend” territory. It’s a cultural reset . Whether you’re grabbing a flat white in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, heading to a lecture in Leeds, or navigating the tube in London, this two-piece has become the unofficial uniform of the stylishly comfortable.
But here’s the thing: owning the tracksuit is one thing; styling it so you look like a off-duty model rather than someone who just raided their mate’s wardrobe is another. So, let’s dive into the ultimate guide on wearing your Essentials tracksuit, the celebrity influence behind the hype, and why Gen Z can’t get enough.
The Celebrity Effect: From Red Carpets to Airport Terminals
Why did the Essentials tracksuit blow up? The answer is simple: your favourite celebrity probably answered the door to a paparazzo while wearing it. Celebrities don’t just wear clothes—they validate them . And right now, the A-list is basically the brand’s walking billboard.
Think about the heavy hitters. Justin Bieber, the patron saint of off-duty cool, has been photographed countless times in a faded black hoodie, proving that even with a stylist on speed dial, comfort reigns supreme . Hailey Bieber—who essentially defines the “clean girl” aesthetic—has been spotted layering the oversized hoodies over leggings and biker shorts, making it look effortlessly expensive .
Then there’s the UK contingency. Grime and rap artists have fully embraced the minimalist wave. Stormzy has championed the laid-back tracksuit look, proving it fits the UK sound just as well as it fits the UK weather . Even footballers like Jack Grealish and Marcus Rashford have made the post-match fit just as iconic as their 90-minute performance, often spotted in the heather grey sets that dominate the stands . When the worlds of music, sport, and high fashion collide like this, the tracksuit stops being “loungewear” and starts being “investment dressing.”
Styling the Set: A British Guide to Looking Effortless
So, you’ve got your hands on a set. Now what? The beauty of the Essentials tracksuit lies in its chameleon-like ability to adapt. It’s a blank canvas . Here is how to wear it depending on your UK city vibe.
The London “Polished Minimalist”
In the capital, it’s all about looking intentional. Don’t just wear the set; curate it. Stick to the neutral shades—stone, cream, or jet black . The goal is to look sleek. Swap the standard issue trainers for a pair of clean, white leather sneakers or even a pair of retro Nike or New Balance kicks. Throw a crossbody bag over your shoulder (think Bottega or a simple nylon number) and some oversized sunglasses . It says, “I care about fashion, but I’m not trying too hard.”
The Manchester “Northern Cool”
If London is polished, Manchester is bold . Up north, they know how to layer for the elements without sacrificing the drip. Take your Essentials tracksuit and add a puffer jacket—a true Mancunian staple . The chunky silhouette of the puffer over the relaxed fit of the hoodie creates a tough, streetwise texture. Finish with a pair of Air Max 95s or some chunky trainers, and you’re ready for a gig at the O2 Ritz or a late-night bite .
The Gender-Neutral Revolution
One of the most refreshing aspects of the Essentials line is its commitment to inclusivity. The relaxed, oversized fit is inherently unisex, making it a safe space in fashion where individuality shines through . For women, the joggers look incredibly chic when paired with a fitted bralette or crop top under the hoodie, letting the pants do the talking . For men, the slightly tapered joggers offer a cleaner line than traditional baggy sportswear . It’s fluid fashion at its finest—no rules, just vibes.
Gen Z and The TikTok Effect: Fashion Hacks You Need to Know
Gen Z has taken the Essentials Tracksuit and run with it—straight onto the “For You” page. The hashtag #EssentialTracksuit alone has amassed billions of views, with users dubbing it “rich people’s loungewear” . Here are the hacks they’re using to keep the look fresh in 2026.
The “High-Low” Mix: Don’t be afraid to clash textures. The brand’s heavyweight French terry cotton (often 380-460 GSM, making it feel substantial) looks incredible when contrasted with luxury fabrics . Throw a tailored trench coat or a wool overcoat over the top. It’s the ultimate “high-low” mix that screams high-fashion editorial .
Accessories Are Everything: You can completely change the vibe of this tracksuit with the right add-ons. Ditch the baseball cap for a beanie in the winter, or go full streetwear with a bucket hat . Add a gold chain or a chunky silver necklace to give it some edge . Even your sock game matters—let a flash of patterned sock peek out above your trainer for a playful touch .
The Footwear Switch-Up: This is the biggest hack of all. Trainers are the obvious choice, but if you want to turn heads, try Chelsea boots with your joggers . Yes, really. The tapered ankle cuff sits perfectly over a boot, transitioning the tracksuit from sportswear to “smart casual” in seconds.
Why It’s Here to Stay: The Investment Factor
In a world of fast fashion, the Essentials Tracksuit is an anomaly. It holds its value. On resale platforms like StockX and Grailed, deadstock (unworn) pieces from popular drops retain 85-90% of their value . This isn’t just a purchase; it’s a wearable asset.
The quality backs up the hype. Unlike knock-offs that use thin fleece, authentic Essentials uses a dense, heavyweight cotton blend that resists pilling and holds its shape . The details matter—from the ribbed cuffs that stay snug to the “flocked” or rubberised logos that define the collection . It’s quiet luxury in its purest form; if you know, you know.
Final Verdict: Essential by Name, Essential by Nature
From the streets of Shoreditch to the campuses of Leeds, the Essentials Tracksuit has proven it’s not just a passing fad. It’s a lifestyle piece that speaks to a generation valuing comfort, style, and authenticity in equal measure . Whether you’re rocking the earthy Green Essentials Hoodie for an autumn walk, or keeping it classic with the Jet Black set for a night out, you’re tapping into a piece of fashion history .
So, go ahead. Layer it, accessorise it, make it yours. Trust us—your wardrobe (and your Instagram feed) will thank you.
