Basics just got better with adidas Originals XbyO

With XbyO, adidas set out to create a unisex range that marries up its rich heritage with forward-thinking, functional design. To do it, they went open-source. The brand dove into the big drawer in the adidas archive marked '2001', and pulled out the first ever Originals collection – from there, the new line began.

The ‘X’ branding that features throughout those heritage pieces, lifted from adi’s 1960 Italia Olympics running shoe, struck the design head honchos in Herzo as the ideal motif for a more pared-back sportswear offering (can’t rock the fresh prints every day, y’know).

To bring this vision to life, The Brand with the Three Stripes enlisted the help of expert pattern-cutter, Satomi Nakamura – renowned for her work with Japanese fashion house, COMME des GARÇONS. For XbyO, Nakamura’s approach involved imagining the garments in three dimensions, rather than as a flat sketch. The end result? A collection that compliments the contours of the body and allows for freedom of movement. Translation: every piece is created to offer you next-level comfort and style – we’re all in.

Constructed from premium Japanese terry cloth sourced from the famous Yamayo Textiles, each garment is shaped with darts instead of seams. Now, we’re no haberdashers but the sleek shapes are enough to convince us that this was a strong move.

XbyO includes a range of everyday staples, from extended-length tanks to track jackets, so you’ve got plenty of options when it comes to working the collection’s minimalist aesthetic into your wardrobe. For an all-out sportswear look (dress for your New Year’s resolution and it might just happen), triple up with joggers, a tee and a sweat, but get experimental with the layering to add a little intrigue.

Alternatively, mix and match pieces into your daily looks with ease: combo the XbyO track jacket with a white Oxford shirt and tailored trousers for a smart 'fit. The XbyO collection has started to drop below – keep it locked to Looped for more pieces coming soon.

Styling by Jo Greasley & Ben van den Broek