Everyone knows that PUMA sneakers can be a luxury. Jil Sander proved that point almost 30 years ago, and PUMA's reiterated it through collaborations with discerning Japanese fashion labels and lavish leather shoes. But what about PUMA clothing?

While the German label’s footwear has established a taste for the finer things, the sportswear label’s clothing has always leaned sporty, as one would expect. PROJECT PUMA PLUS is the exception to that rule.

That’s not say PROJECT PUMA PLUS’ clothing is lacking in functionality. This new collection includes the German brand’s windproof yet breathable windCELL technology and quick-drying performance fabrics that’ll do the job for casual workouts or quick jogs to the office.

The difference is that PROJECT PUMA PLUS only barely looks sporty.

A muted color palette of earthy browns and khaki greens gives the clothing a tasteful elegance, as does the flowing cut of the balloon pants and drop-shoulder tees. Clean shirts wear only the smallest hit of PUMA branding; outwardly they feel formal but internally are built from moisture-wicking technical materials. 

This is sportswear that’s learnt a few tricks from the so-called “quiet luxury” brands, the kind of thing commentators were calling “quiet outdoor” only a few years ago. 

Unfortunately, you won't find this kind of understated PUMA gear everywhere. Not yet, anyway. PROJECT PUMA PLUS is first launching in Japan under the tagline “wear functional beauty” on March 6. 

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