You can thank Rihanna, Adidas, athleisure or the original “tracksuits as clothes” pioneers Juicy Couture for this. They, along with anyone who has an eye for effortless style, have popularised these versatile fits to the point that they’ve now become an icon of high/low dressing. See: tracksuits paired with floor-grazing winter coats, trendy sunglasses and designer handbags.
As the chilly weather sets in, we’ve been rinsing and repeating A.BCH’s luxuriously comfy range of fleecy sweaters and trackpants. Made in Melbourne from impossibly soft, brushed organic cotton with a fluffy hand-feel, these tracksuits are unlike any we’ve worn before.
Seriously, if you’ve been buying cheap tracksuits from retail stores, the A.BCH experience is going to blow your mind. When we say soft – we really mean it. The GOTS-certified fleece is plusher than conventional alternatives, but with none of the plastic nasties usually found in tracksuits.
Most fleece tracksuits are made from a polyester called polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or other synthetic fibres. In addition to being derived from petrochemicals, these fabrics are known to shed tiny pieces of plastic in the wash that pollute waterways.
Once you know this, it’s hard not to feel a twang of guilt every time you chuck a polar fleece sweater in the washing machine. Another reason why swapping to high-quality garments made from natural fibres is such a no brainer.
Organic cotton has been a gamechanger in this regard, giving us access to low-impact versions of wardrobe essentials like sweaters, T-shirts, jeans, and now, tracksuits. ABC.H’s organic cotton fleece sets are not only free of plastic, but also the fossil-fuel based fertilisers and pesticides used to produce conventional cotton, making them great options for anyone with sensitive skin or allergies.
The tracksuit’s cosy texture is created by brushing the inside of the cotton for a fuzzy finish that gently grazes the skin. Unlike heavyweight polyester fleece, this material is breathable, which means it will keep you warm without causing excess perspiration.
The sets come in an undyed shade of oyster-white (for all the super sensitive folks out there) and a dark navy colour created using certified organic dye. The slouchy jumper is finished with a thick ribbed collar and cuffs that add structure and the pants come in a flattering straight-leg cut with pockets: perfect for coffee runs.
All in all, slipping into one of these sets feels like wearing a cloud. It’s a lush level of cosiness that will have you asking: can I rock this at a dinner party, work, the opera? Yes, yes, and yes (just add heels and some statement jewellery).
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