If there’s one outfit that’s conquered the UK high streets, Tube stations, and Instagram feeds, it’s the Essentials Tracksuit. From London’s edgy boroughs to Manchester’s buzzing nightlife, and Leeds’ fashion-forward streets, this set has become more than just loungewear—it’s a lifestyle. But what makes the Essentials Tracksuit so iconic, and how do different UK cities put their own spin on it? Let’s take a style trip up and down the country.
London: Streetwear Meets High Fashion
Londoners have an uncanny ability to make anything look runway-ready, and the Essentials Tracksuit is no exception. In Shoreditch, you’ll spot creatives pairing the set with chunky trainers and vintage sunglasses, while over in Kensington, it’s styled with luxury handbags and gold hoops.
Celebrities have played a huge role in cementing the look—think Skepta in sleek neutrals or Maya Jama rocking oversized fits. For London, it’s all about blending streetwear swagger with a touch of luxe. Layering is key here: throw on a trench coat, add statement trainers, and you’re instantly blending into the capital’s effortlessly cool vibe.
Style hack: Try mixing and matching tops and bottoms in different neutral shades—like cream joggers with a grey hoodie—for that understated London polish.
Manchester: Bold, Edgy, and Always on Trend
Up north, Manchester gives the Essentials Tracksuit its own signature twist—edgier, bolder, and with a hint of football culture. Known for its buzzing music scene and thriving nightlife, Mancunians aren’t afraid to push the boundaries of casual fashion.
Here, it’s common to see the tracksuit paired with oversized puffers, graphic caps, and box-fresh trainers. The look is practical (because, let’s face it, Manchester weather isn’t always kind) yet stylish enough to hit Deansgate or a gig without feeling underdressed.
Celebs like Aitch and Bugzy Malone have definitely influenced the Manchester tracksuit aesthetic—keeping it tough, confident, and unapologetically northern.
Style hack: Add a puffer jacket or utility vest over your Essentials Tracksuit for that ultimate Mancunian streetwear edge.
Leeds: The Fashion-Forward Playground
Leeds may not always get the same style spotlight as London or Manchester, but its fashion scene is quietly thriving. The city’s student-heavy population means Gen Z dominates the streets—and when it comes to styling the Essentials Tracksuit, they’re leading the charge.
In Leeds, the tracksuit isn’t just casual wear—it’s an outfit for everything: brunch, lectures, nights out, or even styled up with chunky boots for the fashion crowd. Leeds loves a pop of colour too, so while London sticks to neutrals, you’ll see pastel or bolder-toned Essentials sets making a splash here.
Thanks to social media influencers and TikTok styling videos, the Leeds version of the look is playful, experimental, and trend-driven.
Style hack: Accessorise with a colourful beanie, micro-bag, or even statement jewellery to bring your Essentials Tracksuit from lecture hall to cocktail hour.
Birmingham: The Balanced Blend
Birmingham brings a balanced mix of laid-back and put-together when it comes to tracksuit culture. The Essentials Tracksuit here is often styled for versatility—you’ll see it paired with clean trainers for a day of shopping in Bullring or dressed up with sharp outerwear for a night at Digbeth’s bars.
Celebs from the Midlands like Jaykae have been spotted repping the look, adding to its appeal in Brum. Unlike Manchester’s bold edge or London’s luxe vibe, Birmingham keeps things practical but stylish—a city that knows how to flex a tracksuit without overdoing it.
Style hack: Pair your Essentials Tracksuit with smart outerwear, like a wool overcoat or bomber jacket, to nail that Brum balance between casual and classy.
Celebrity Influence: Who’s Wearing the Essentials Tracksuit?
Part of the Essentials Tracksuit’s UK takeover is thanks to celebrity endorsements. From Hailey Bieber jetting through Heathrow in oversized Essentials, to Dave and Central Cee keeping the look authentically British, celebs have made this loungewear staple aspirational.
Even footballers are in on the action—Raheem Sterling and Marcus Rashford have been spotted in sleek tracksuit combos, proving the set’s crossover between sportswear and streetwear.
The celebrity message is clear: the Essentials Tracksuit isn’t just about comfort—it’s about cultural relevance.
Why Gen Z Loves It
Gen Z has practically crowned the Essentials Tracksuit as the uniform of cool. Why? Because it ticks all their boxes:
- Gender-neutral appeal – Oversized cuts and neutral colours make it universally wearable.
- Effortless style – No overthinking, just throw it on and look put together.
- TikTok approval – Influencers constantly post “day-to-night” styling hacks.
- Sustainability edge – One quality set = endless outfit combos, reducing fast fashion splurges.
It’s casual, conscious, and content-ready—a fashion trifecta Gen Z can’t resist.
Fashion Hacks: Elevating Your Essentials Tracksuit
So, how do you keep your look fresh when everyone owns an Essentials Tracksuit? Easy—use these hacks:
- Layer like a pro – Add a trench, oversized blazer, or even a varsity jacket.
- Mix neutrals – Don’t be afraid to mismatch shades of beige, grey, or black.
- Statement trainers – Think Jordans, Yeezys, or Nike Dunks for instant credibility.
- Accessorise cleverly – Caps, crossbody bags, and chunky chains add personality.
- Seasonal flips – In summer, swap joggers for Essentials shorts and keep the hoodie oversized.
Final Word: The Essentials Tracksuit is Here to Stay
Whether you’re strolling through London’s streets, heading to a gig in Manchester, or grabbing coffee in Leeds, the Essentials Tracksuit has firmly cemented its place as the UK’s go-to uniform. It’s more than an outfit—it’s a cultural statement, a nod to streetwear heritage, and proof that comfort and style really can go hand in hand.
So next time you’re wondering what to wear, just remember: in Britain today, the Essentials Tracksuit isn’t just a choice—it’s the vibe.
