If there’s one outfit dominating both high streets and Insta feeds across the UK, it’s the Essentials Tracksuit. From Camden to Castlefield, the cosy-yet-cool co-ord is having a serious fashion moment. No longer reserved for lazy Sundays or gym sessions, this set has evolved into a street-style must-have—worn by everyone from celebs to your local barista.
But what exactly makes the Essentials Tracksuit a national obsession? Let’s zip into the culture, explore how it’s styled differently across cities like London, Manchester, and Leeds, and dish out some top-tier style hacks for the ultimate tracksuit slay.
London Calling: Street-Style Royalty
Ah, London—the fashion capital where streetwear meets runway. In East London’s Shoreditch or the West End’s Soho, the Essentials Tracksuit is a certified style statement.
Londoners love to layer, and the tracksuit becomes a perfect base. Think oversized Essentials hoodie in oatmeal or iron grey, paired with a classic trench, a beanie, and chunky trainers. It’s effortless, androgynous, and screams “I woke up like this” (but you know they didn’t).
Spotted: Stormzy stepping out in a full Essentials set with a bomber jacket and gold chain. It’s giving grime royalty meets off-duty model—and we’re here for it.
Style tip: Match your tracksuit shade with your outerwear for a sleek monochrome moment. Add a pair of sunnies—even if it’s cloudy. You’re in London, darling.
Manchester Vibes: Urban Edge with Heart
Manchester isn’t just about music legends and rainy days—it’s also a hotspot for edgy, practical fashion. In the Northern Quarter, where art meets attitude, the Essentials Tracksuit is a city staple.
Mancunians go for bold colours—charcoal, deep green, or sand—often paired with statement trainers (hi, Nike Dunks). They’re also big on accessories: crossbody bags, caps, and AirPods for that on-the-go city energy.
Seen in the wild: Aitch, the Manchester rapper, regularly rocks the Essentials look in music vids and on the ‘gram. With rings, chains, and that cheeky grin? It’s a whole vibe.
Fashion hack: Crop your hoodie slightly or tuck it into your waistband to show off your silhouette. Balance that slouchy-sleek look without sacrificing comfort.
Leeds Lookbook: Casual Meets Cool
Leeds might be known for its buzzing uni life and underrated nightlife, but its fashion game is strong. The Essentials Tracksuit is a go-to for the city’s stylish students and creatives.
Leeds locals tend to keep it neutral—creams, taupes, greys—but play around with textures. You’ll often see Essentials joggers paired with sherpa jackets or puffer gilets.
Gen Z stamp of approval: Essentials is huge on TikTok, and Leeds influencers are showing how to take the look from lecture hall to cocktail bar. It’s the “I just threw this on but still look fit” aesthetic.
Styling tip: Elevate your tracksuit with a tailored coat and chunky boots. Throw in a structured tote or a mini backpack for that minimalist vibe.
Across the UK: One Tracksuit, Endless Vibes
Whether you’re in Brighton, Birmingham, Glasgow or Bristol, the Essentials Tracksuit has become the unofficial uniform for comfort-driven, trend-conscious dressers.
It’s not just about fashion—it’s about identity. The tracksuit taps into UK street culture, Gen Z’s love for gender-neutral fashion, and the ongoing shift toward elevated loungewear. Plus, let’s face it, we Brits love something we can throw on that still looks put together.
The Celebrity Seal of Approval
The rise of the Essentials Tracksuit isn’t just grassroots—it’s backed by some serious A-list influence.
- Justin Bieber (who’s married to Hailey, the queen of model-off-duty) is often seen head-to-toe in Essentials.
- Kendall Jenner has been spotted wearing the zip-up hoodie with leggings and sleek sunnies—perfect for those “paparazzi at the petrol station” moments.
- UK’s very own Dave and Central Cee are also regulars in the look, making the tracksuit part of the modern British music uniform.
When celebs endorse comfort with that much style, it’s no wonder we’re all in on the look.
Gen Z Loves It—Here’s Why
For Gen Z, fashion is about comfort, fluidity, and flexing your personal brand. The Essentials Tracksuit ticks every box:
- Gender-Neutral Appeal: The oversized fit, muted tones, and unisex cuts make it ideal for anyone.
- TikTok-Trendy: “Day in my life” videos? Fit checks? Airport ‘fits? Essentials is everywhere.
- Mix-and-Match Energy: Pair the hoodie with cargos or the joggers with a crop top—it’s made for styling flexibility.
Quick tip: Swap your trainers for slides or Crocs in summer. Add high socks and you’ve got that laid-back influencer energy nailed.
Fashion Hacks: Mastering the Essentials Tracksuit Look
Want to make your Essentials Tracksuit feel less “I just rolled out of bed” and more “this is high fashion, actually”? Try these style tricks:
- Layer Up: Throw on a leather jacket, denim jacket, or oversized blazer.
- Accessorise Smart: Add a sleek cap, layered jewellery, or a scarf for texture.
- Play with Proportions: Oversized hoodie? Go for slim-fit joggers. Wide-leg trousers? Balance it with a cropped sweatshirt.
- Monochrome Magic: Matching shades head-to-toe always looks intentional and chic.
- Sneaker Game Strong: Essentials + clean white trainers = chef’s kiss.
Final Thoughts: Why the Essentials Tracksuit is Here to Stay
The Essentials Tracksuit isn’t just a trend—it’s a lifestyle. It reflects the way we live now: fluid, comfy, stylish without trying too hard. It’s versatile enough to be worn on the Tube, in a lecture, at the gym, or even on a date (yes, really).
And let’s be honest, there’s something empowering about feeling snug while looking like you’ve stepped out of a lookbook. From London’s fashionistas to Manchester’s trendsetters, the whole UK is living its best loungewear life—and the Essentials Tracksuit is leading the charge.
