With everyone from Kim Kardashian to Hailey Bieber embracing the bodysuit, if you’re looking for a sign to swap uncomfortable waistbands for a one-piece, this is it.
Whether you call it a onesie, playsuit, bodysuit, unitard or even a catsuit, the all-in-one has made its way onto yoga mats, reformer beds, spin bikes and even running tracks, cementing its status as the biggest trend in athleisure wear.
“The onesie’s popularity has been huge. We’ve seen such a demand for the style it sold out in just four weeks, with over 800 signed up to be notified for our onesie collection restock,” says Nimble Activewear co-founder Vera Yan.
More elevated than your standard tights and tank combo, the one-piece seamlessly transitions into everyday wear.
“We’ve seen the onesie used for Pilates, yoga and walks, but also styled for everyday wear with seasonal layers,” adds Yan.
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And while it may seem impractical or intimidating at first, the workout onesie is equal parts comfortable and functional. Cut from technical fabrications that offer support, contoured seams, moisture-wicking qualities, four-way stretch and smooth second-skin feels, these next-gen onesies are so good you may never go back to a two-piece again.
Crafted for both low-impact and high-intensity workouts, they allow for unrestricted freedom when you’re downward dogging and targeted support when you’re mid-run. But buying a onesie can be daunting, with celebrity stylist Jess Pecoraro advising that fabric and fit are key.
“Look for something with high-quality fabrication features that not only makes it comfortable but also sits nicely on the body. Anything with panels helps contour the body, which again gives you a nice shape.”
According to fashion stylist Patrick Zaczkiewicz, trying different styles is the way to go.
“I think it’s important to make sure you try a few options to see what suits your body best. You want to make sure the fabric is nice and tight, with no loose lycra. You want it to hug and accentuate your figure,” he explains.
“The great thing about a onesie is the fact that you have the base of an outfit. It’s a ready-made canvas that you can build upon accordingly.”
And to really master the art of onesie layering, stick to neutral shades.
“Go for a black or neutral onesie which will make it easier to style back with other pieces,” Pecoraro adds. “Use it as a base and layer. Oversized knits and shirting are great to either wear over the top or around your waist, and a blazer, bomber and trench are great to add an extra layer.”
“Wearing a onesie in a neutral colour allows you to play with tonal outfits and seasonal layering,” says Zaczkiewicz. “For example, layering a knit and coat on top in the colder weather and pairing it with a modern sneaker can really execute that effortless off-duty aesthetic.”
Accessories are the easiest way to seamlessly (and stylishly) take the onesie from the studio to the street.
“Accessories can really lift an outfit, so when it comes to the onesie, a great cross-body bag with a cool sneaker will really amp up the style,” Zaczkiewicz says. “I’m also a sucker for a baseball cap. Add all these elements together with a cashmere knit thrown over the shoulders and you’re ready to go.”
And if you’re still a little apprehensive, stick to solid colours — no patterns or prints. “Darker colours are always easier to wear and more flattering,” says Pecoraro.
From long-legged to cropped, high-necked to scooped, here’s a round-up of our favourites that are most definitely not a one-hit-wonder.
Skims ribbed stretch-cotton jersey playsuit, $136.39 from Net-a-Porter
Nimble Activewear in-motion onesie, $149 from Nimble Activewear
Aje Athletica asymmetric catsuit 812, $175 from Aje Athletica
Girlfriend Collective, +net sustain stretch recycled jumpsuit, $136.39 from Net-a-Porter
Lululemon senseknit running one-piece, $219 from Lululemon
STAX full length bodysuit in sand, $94.95 from STAX
H&M seamless activewear unitard, $49.99 from H&M
Running Bare making shapes unitard, $129.99 from The Iconic
P.E Nation recalibrate one piece in pesto, $139 from P.E Nation
2XU light speed bodysuit, $139.99 from The Iconic