If you’re on #GymTok or the fitness side of TikTok, you might’ve encountered the viral ‘BBL Jacket’ on your For You page at least twice. But if you aren’t, this might be as intriguing as it sounds. This ‘BBL jacket’ gained immense popularity with millions of views across multiple social media platforms, particularly on TikTok and Instagram. Its jacket style earned its nickname (quite catchy and hilarious) from viral videos of influencers and TikTok users creatively showcasing how the jacket can transform their body figure to a curvier, fuller figure also known as the ‘BBL effect’. This mimics the appearance of an hourglass figure, resembling the results of a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedure.
The Brazilian butt lift (BBL) is a popular cosmetic procedure that enhances the shape and size of the buttocks while eliminating fat from other body areas. With celebrities and influencers being more open to cosmetic enhancements such as BBL, the conversation around body aesthetics shifted to a broader acceptance and desire for curvier body types. This influenced several fashion trends that accentuated curves; namely, high-waisted bottoms, body-hugging garments, and lastly, the waist-sculpting fitness jacket, also known as the ‘BBL Jacket’.
What Does 'BBL Jacket' Mean?
The ‘BBL Jacket’ is a form-fitting, zip-up workout jacket designed to enhance the upper body shape, especially emphasising the waist down. This style may seem familiar as it has been used in fitness apparel for years. However, just as fashion trends come and go, the hype of the ‘BBL Jacket’ in social media made its internet fame a success. Users claim that this workout jacket has the ‘BBL effect’ hence the nickname. Most try-on videos showcase how the ‘BBL Jacket’ skim your body, defines your waist and bum, and sculpts your all-natural curves in the right places — results resembling as if you’ve done BBL without actually getting the procedure.
Many fitness and athleisure brands have jumped on the trend, releasing their unique version of a stylish BBL Jacket. Generally, a typical BBL jacket features these key designs for a flattering style yet functional activewear:
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Slim-fit Design accentuates the curves for a sculpted appearance while incorporating seams and panels that enhance the waistline and lift the rear for a flattering shape.
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Full-length Zipper allows versatile styling and easier adjustment for temperature control during workouts.
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Mid-length Cut (often cropped or slightly longer) hits around the waist or hips area to naturally draw the eye upwards, creating the illusion of a smaller, defined waist and wider hips contributing to the ‘BBL effect’.
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Stretchy and Moisture-wicking Fabric keeps you dry and comfortable during workouts without any restrictions.
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Lightweight and Breathable Material allows it to be all-day wear, suitable for layering yet comfortable enough for extended use.
Why is the BBL Jacket So Popular?
If you’re wondering how the BBL jacket maintained its popularity status until now, celebrities and public personalities have been spotted wearing this athleisure trend. From Kim Kardashian owning this workout look since 2013 to the Duchess of Cambridge herself, Kate Middleton, sporting Lululemon’s Define Jacket which pioneers the viral ‘BBL Jacket’ in 2021.
Source: Getty Images (Kim Kardashian) & Samie Hussein/Wire Image (Kate Middleton
Reese Witherspoon and Chloe Burrows also featured their BBL jackets on their social media pages. With the influence of these media personalities on the public, the BBL jacket style gained traction as more people sought similar looks of their favourite stars. Moreover, Tiktok users amplified its popularity, creating viral transformation or try-on haul TikTok videos showcasing the ‘BBL effect’ of how it cinches on the waist and accentuates curves naturally.
As TikTok users share their opinions, the body-sculpting BBL jackets have become a hot topic of discussion. Many users have expressed positive reviews, highlighting how it boosts their confidence and motivates them to go to the gym like this TikTok video. This caught the interest of a wider audience, encouraging many to try them for themselves. The combination of celebrity influence and organic social media promotion has transformed the BBL jacket into a must-have activewear, fueling its popularity across various demographics as today’s athleisure obsession.
How to Style a BBL Jacket:
If you’ve given in and bought a BBL Jacket from TikTok recommendations or rather, still contemplating adding one to your wardrobe, here are expert styling tips for a sleek athleisure look:
With High-Waisted Jeans
High-waisted jeans are a wardrobe staple that perfectly matches with a BBL jacket, especially a cropped version. This combination helps elongate your legs, accentuate your waist, and enhance your curves. Opt for skinny jeans for a sleek, casual look or flared jeans for a retro vibe. Matching the colour of your BBL Jacket and pair of jeans creates a monochrome look that gives the illusion of being taller.
Pairing with Leggings
You can never go wrong with pairing your BBL jacket with a fitted pair of leggings like Kim K’s workout OOTD. This outfit combination gives off the ultimate ‘BBL effect’ of an hourglass shape as seen on viral TikTok videos, particularly with high-waisted leggings.
Layering with Dresses
Don’t shy away from styling your BBL jacket over a dress! You might need an extra layer of warmth while wearing a slip dress or a fitted mini, especially in cooler weather. This adds texture and dimension to the look you’re going for on a brunch or a night out. You may also pair a BBL Jacket with a long, flowy dress. The contrast between the structured jacket and the soft fabric of the dress adds more definition to your body shape.
Where to Buy BBL Jackets:
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Lululemon - Lululemon’s Define Jacket hails as the viral ‘BBL Jacket’ on TikTok and also the active brand Kim Kardashian and Kate Middleton worn in public. This is available in several colours and styles like cropped and ribbed options.
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Gym Shark - Another popular active brand that released their collection of BBL jackets in different styles and designs. Gym Shark’s Elevate Tracktop is also dubbed as ‘TikTok’s BBL Jacket’ which provides maximum comfort and style.
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Kate Galliano - Kate Galliano, the leading Australia-based women's activewear brand, joined the hype and crafted their very own — the Zip BBL Jacket. Available in both classic black and a chic light grey, the Zip Jacket has a waist-defining fit embodying the beloved BBL body aesthetic in a flattering manner. This sleek and stylish athleisure is made with high-performance materials that deliver unmatched versatility and functionality. Whether you’re hitting the gym or going about your day, always look sleek and feel unstoppable.
FAQs:
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Is a BBL jacket suitable for all body types?
Absolutely! The BBL jacket is designed to accentuate curves and enhance the body shape of all body types. Choosing the right size —particularly when it comes to the waist— will complement your figure. See our size guide below:
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How did the term 'BBL jacket' become popular?
The term ‘BBL Jacket’ become popular when viral videos on social media platforms, TikTok and Instagram, shows how the jacket can ‘transform’ their body figure to a curvier, fuller figure or an hourglass shape. TikTok users coined it as the ‘BBL effect’ hence the nickname of the workout jacket. The figure ‘transformation’ resembles the result of a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedure.
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Can a BBL jacket be worn for casual occasions?
Definitely! Athleisure has become a go-to fashion trend for casual occasions, and BBL jackets, like Kate Galliano, perfectly showcase this style. With their sleek, versatile design and flattering fit, these provide all-day comfort without sacrificing performance. You can easily pair a BBL jacket with a pair of high-waisted bottoms or layer it over a fitted tank top for a cozy yet polished casual look. Whether you’re dressing it up or keeping it casual, this is a must-have zip jacket in your wardrobe that is worth every investment.
