A VINTAGE YEAR
Sports labels that had their heyday as far back as the 60s are enjoying a resurgence. Revamped collections and nostalgic shoppers are elevating these brands beyond the average loungewear look and into everyday wardrobes
2021 is all about the heritage revival – revisit the classics with these six retro brands
KAPPA
Ah, the 90s; when a Mars bar cost 20p and Kappa reigned supreme. The Italian sports label overhauled its collections in 2014 and has been on fire ever since, thanks to a new design team. How to wear it: Pared-back staples featuring the iconic logo are classics that will stand the test of time. Team with simple tailoring to give your outfit a sporty edge.
Hooded top, £117, Kappa. Coat, £89.99, Mango. Jeans, £29.99, Cotton On at Asos. Trainers, £65, Reebok. Earrings, £38, Anthropologie Previous page: Hooded top, £60, Kappa. Blazer, £34.99; trousers, £24.99, both H&M. Earrings, as before
REEBOK
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Born and bred in Bolton, Reebok used a British flag logo until 1986, when it switched to the now famous vector design – an abstract Union Jack streak across a racetrack. How to wear it: The simple logo-embellished basics are easy-to-wear pieces you can thread through almost any outfit. Like a classic white T-shirt, but cooler.
Top, £22.47, Reebok. Dress, £34.99, Hollister Co. at Zalando. Earrings, £180, Monica Vinader
FILA
This brand has soared to new heights, showing at Milan Fashion Week with looks we’d happily rush a catwalk for. Sports chic royalty, basically. How to wear it: Snap up a luxe tracksuit that will work for day, night or lounging. This set is smart enough to team with heels and head out. (Remember out?)
Tracksuit top, £65; bottoms, £65, both Fila. Polo neck, £34, Everlane. Coat, £75, Monki. Bag, £139, Whistles. Trainers, £130, Veja
FRED PERRY
The OG of the heritage sportwear game, Fred Perry shot to fame in the 60s when super-stylish mods adopted it as part of their wardrobe, and is still adored today by sports, music and fashion stars alike. How to wear it: The superb cut and well-placed detail are what make these standout pieces. Pair with simple staples and let the top do the talking.
Top, £95, Fred Perry. Turtleneck, £15, Weekday. Bag, £89, JW PEI. Skirt, £75, Whistles. Socks, £5, M&S. Trainers, £115, Veja at Net-a-porter
RUSSELL ATHLETIC
Its roots are in American football, basketball and baseball, but Russell Athletic also supplied sports uniforms to high schools and colleges, and you can really feel the varsity vibes. How to wear it: Layer up its retro jackets and collared tops with a polo underneath. This one comes with matching shorts – roll on legs-out weather.
Top, £50, Russell Athletic at Asos. Polo neck, £19, Warehouse. Jeans, £75, French Connection. Bracelet, £250, Monica Vinader
ELLESSE
Adopted into British culture in the 80s after being seen on the backs of sports mega stars galore, Italian brand Ellesse’s current heritage line is an ode to that slice of style history. How to wear it: The simple logo-embossed tees and tracksuit bottoms are great mix-and-match staples. Dreaming of summer? It also has a swimwear collection to die for.
T-shirt, £22, Ellesse. Coat, £129.99, TK Maxx. Tracksuit bottoms, £22, Asos 4505. Trainers, £65, Reebok