The Death of the Matching Set

Image Courtesy: Universal Pictures / Bring It On: All or Nothing

You can stop saving your paychecks to buy that new matching workout set and head to the thrift store because 2000s workout wear is back, baby!

Goodbye matching sets and tight shorts that go up to your ribs, and hello Juicy sweats or vintage Aeropostale sweats, thick headbands, and mismatched pieces. 

Fitness has always been a large area for fashion expression, especially in the 2000s when workout wear was casual, effortless, and oh-so-flattering. The best part: affordable. Recently, I unlocked the active-wear section at the thrift store, and I haven’t left it. 

Some of the best examples of classic early-2000s workout wear were in the media at the time. The movie Bring It On: All or Nothing, where the character Hayden showcases several great outfits for cheer practice, like low-rise sweats, cropped zip-ups, mismatched colors, etc.

Gabriella Solis from Desperate Housewives is always showcasing a matching sweat set or pastel tank and low-rise pants to do her yoga.  

Of course, alongside TV, celebrities are the first people to wear and influence the trends of their time. Back then, you could find Jessica Alba rocking the thick headband and bold sunglasses or Britney Spears, but don’t think her iconic outfits and influence require an explanation.  

For many people, fitness is already a vulnerable feat, but adding in that little element of confidence through outfits that are both stylish and affordable can open the door for many more to feel comfortable moving their bodies. You know what they say– when you look good, you feel good! 

Sure, brands such as Lululemon, Alo, and Dyfne will always have a place in workout fashion for their sleek silhouette and seemingly “high-quality” fabrics, but more and more people are discovering how accessible and cute early-2000s workout wear is. 

Something that isn’t talked about is how comparable the quality of these brands is to the more affordable vintage options. With prices as high as they are, it could be assumed that the quality is top-tier; however, it’s not. It’s actually pretty mediocre. A lot of people have experienced negative feelings regarding the clothing from these brands, complaining of itchy or thin fabric, weak stitches, and a lack of sweat resistance.  

So if it were me, I would save my money and head over to my local thrift store because I can find some pretty unique pieces for much cheaper while also staying in touch with my love of fashion. 

If you think you saw Britney Spears out of the corner of your eye at the gym, don’t be fooled, it's just me rocking my capri workout pants.

Strike Out, 

Madi Denizard 

Boca Raton 

Madi Denizard is a content writer for Strike Magazine Boca. In typical Leo fashion, she is a social butterfly and loves self-expression of all kinds. When she’s not writing, you can find her with her nose stuck in a book, mermaiding in the ocean or crocheting her newest masterpiece. You can reach her by email at madison.denizard@gmail.com or on Instagram @mpaigee_