If there’s one outfit that’s earned national treasure status in the UK fashion scene, it’s the Essentials Tracksuit. Once reserved for cosy nights in or pre-gym warmups, it’s now the go-to uniform for London trendsetters, Manchester creatives, Leeds students, and pretty much anyone who wants to look effortlessly stylish without trying too hard.
From TikTok influencers to football stars, celebs have helped skyrocket the Essentials aesthetic into full-blown British streetwear culture — and honestly, we’re not complaining. Here’s your fun, fashion-mag breakdown of why the Essentials Tracksuit is everywhere and how each UK city puts its own spin on it.
London Look: Street Luxe With Attitude
London is basically the capital of “I just threw this on, but I still look iconic.” Whether you’re wandering through Shoreditch, people-watching on Oxford Street, or grabbing a flat white in Notting Hill, the Essentials Tracksuit is a key player in the city’s street-luxe wardrobe.
Londoners love pairing their tracksuits with:
- Chunky trainers (New Balance, Nike or Asics for the cool kids)
- Oversized trench coats for that high-low mix
- Micro shoulder bags or crossbodies
- Baseball caps or beanies, depending on the mood
The city’s style vibes? Understated, minimalist, but very curated.
Celebrity Influence in London
Spotted: Stormzy, Jorja Smith, and even Premier League stars stepping out in monochrome Essentials sets. Their laid-back, slightly oversized silhouettes have inspired a wave of Londoners to embrace the comfy-chic movement.
Manchester: Where Streetwear Meets Music Culture
Manchester has always had a unique fashion identity — a mix of indie, streetwear, football culture, and music-scene swagger. The Essentials Tracksuit fits right into the city’s rhythm.
In Manny, the look is all about:
- Earthy tones and neutrals for that moody northern palette
- Hoodies worn slightly cropped or tucked for definition
- Accessories kept minimal — the tracksuit is the statement
Check out the Northern Quarter on a Saturday afternoon and you’ll spot Gen Zers styling their tracksuits with fresh trainers and layered silver jewellery.
Celeb Energy
Manchester’s musical icons (hello, Aitch!) have been crucial in influencing the local look. With social media amplifying every outfit, Essentials tracksuits have become a staple for the city’s creative crowd.
Leeds: Chill, Youthful & Campus-Friendly
Leeds has a huge student population — which means trends travel fast, and comfort is king. The Essentials Tracksuit is practically university uniform here.
Leeds fashion energy = casual, fun, slightly oversized, and very TikTok-approved.
You’ll see:
- Neutrals during the day
- Brighter tones for nights out or late-library study sessions
- Zip-up Essentials hoodies layered over crop tops or ribbed tanks
- Essentials joggers styled with chunky boots (yes, it works)
Gen Z’s Stamp on It
In Leeds especially, Gen Z embraces the gender-fluid, wearable-without-effort vibe of the Essentials brand. They mix pieces across collections, repurpose tracksuit sets as streetwear, and make comfort look incredibly cool.
Birmingham, Glasgow & Beyond: Regional Styles You’ll Love
The Essentials Tracksuit may be a nationwide favourite, but every city gives it its own fashion flavour.
Birmingham
Brummies bring bold vibes — think fitted hoodies, bright colourways, and sporty trainers. The look leans slightly more urban and expressive.
Glasgow
Up north, style is functional but fierce. Layering is key thanks to the unpredictable weather. Essentials tracksuits are paired with quilted gilets, oversized puffers, or even biker jackets to toughen up the look.
Bristol
A little artsy, a little boho, and very streetwear-conscious. Bristol kids mix Essentials with graphic tees, eco-conscious accessories, and thrift finds.
Why the Essentials Tracksuit Is So Big in UK Culture
1. It’s Gender-Neutral and Universally Flattering
The relaxed fit works on every body type. Whether you prefer baggy silhouettes or a more tailored vibe, there’s a way to style it that feels authentically you.
2. Influencer Domination
Instagram and TikTok creators — especially UK-based girls and lads doing GRWM videos — have made Essentials a wardrobe must-have. The clean branding and muted tones photograph beautifully, making it the perfect “fit pic” outfit.
3. Gen Z’s Minimalist Era
We’re living through the cosiest fashion revolution. Gen Z loves neutral palettes, oversized hoodies, and anything that balances comfort with aesthetic value. Essentials checks every box.
4. It Works for Every Season
Rain? Sunshine? Wind that feels personal? Your Essentials Tracksuit handles it all. Layer it with coats in winter or style it alone in summer — versatility is its secret weapon.
How to Style Your Essentials Tracksuit Like a Pro
Mix Monochromes
A matching set always looks clean, but mixing shades of grey, beige, and cream creates a more editorial feel. London girls mastered this one first.
Add a Statement Coat
A trench, leather jacket, puffer, or even a wool overcoat instantly elevates the tracksuit from casual to catwalk-ready.
Play With Proportions
Cropped hoodies with oversized joggers… or oversized hoodies with fitted bottoms. Experimenting with shape creates visual balance and makes your outfit more intentional.
Footwear Matters
The trainer hierarchy is real. Essentials tracksuits look best with:
- Fresh white trainers
- Chunky New Balances
- Retro runners
- High-top Jordans for a sporty twist
Go Minimal on Accessories
A sleek watch, small hoops, a cap or a subtle bag — think clean lines, not clutter.
Fashion Hacks for the Essentials Fan
- Steam, don’t iron, to keep the fit crisp and fabric smooth.
- Size up for that Instagram-famous oversized look.
- Keep colours neutral so everything mixes and matches.
- Roll the waistband of joggers for a more fitted streetwear aesthetic.
- Layer Essentials pieces with other basics like ribbed tees, varsity jackets, or puffer gilets.
Celebrity Influence: The Power of Pop Culture
From Justin Bieber’s off-duty outfits (he’s practically the unofficial ambassador) to UK celebs like Central Cee, Maya Jama, and Rita Ora, the Essentials Tracksuit has become paparazzi-approved.
And when celebs step out in coordinated sets, fans follow — fast. Suddenly the tracksuit isn’t just loungewear; it’s a lifestyle.
Final Thoughts: Why the UK Is Obsessed With Essentials
The Essentials Tracksuit has become the look for modern Britain — relaxed, stylish, unisex, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a London creative, a Manchester music lover, a Leeds student, or just someone who appreciates comfort with a touch of sophistication, there’s an Essentials vibe for you.
