Is the athleisure movement here to stay?

Dive Brief:

Yoga pants are gaining traction as an acceptable part of a business casual wardrobe as part of the “athleisure wear” trend, The Boston Globe reports.
The trend could be here to stay as younger managers increasingly take on leadership roles.
The overall athleisure apparel category is expected to grow at a double-digit pace this year.

Dive Insight:

The “athleisure” movement, helped in part by the popularity of retailers such as yoga wear chain Lululemon, has moved into mainstream, everyday fashion.

It’s been the hottest part of a generally tepid clothing market, generating nearly $2 billion in apparel sales in 2014, according to market research firm the NPD Group.

Athleisure wear “has reached the point that fashion industry analysts say has gone beyond ‘trend’ and become a part of the permanent fashion landscape,” the Boston Globe reported.

Retailers growing their athleisure mix include Lululemon, Nike, L Brands, and even career-wear women’s apparel leader Ann Inc., parent of Ann Taylor and Loft, according to Seeking Alpha.