Beyond the Ice: Alysa Liu on Reclaiming Her Narrative, Gen Z Authenticity, and Nike’s Studio Fleece

Alysa Liu has never been interested in fitting into the traditional, hyper-curated mold of figure skating. From making history as the youngest U.S. National Champion at age 13 to taking a courageous hiatus at 16 to prioritize her mental health, the Bay Area native has built a career defined by unshakeable self-ownership.

Returning to the ice on her own terms to claim Olympic Gold at the 2026 Winter Games in Milan, Liu brought her distinct Gen Z flair skating to PinkPantheress, sporting two-tone skunk-stripe hair and facial piercings, and directing her own choreography. Now at 20, she channels that same expressive energy off the ice as a leading face for Nike’s new Studio Fleece campaign, alongside athletes like Sha’Carri Richardson and Reece James.

The Oakland Aesthetic: Comfort Meets Motion

Rooted in her upbringing in Oakland, California, Liu credits her hometown’s eclectic culture with shaping her personal style philosophy. “You’re supposed to have your own way of dressing and feel free to express yourself,” she reflects on her Bay Area roots.

Her everyday wardrobe prioritizes utilitarian comfort without sacrificing sartorial edge:

• The Layering System: Liu leans into West Coast layering, stacking graphic tees over tank tops, pairing oversized hoodies with baggy sweatpants, and experimenting with skirts over denim.
• Movement as Priority: Whether choreographing in the dance studio, warming up on cold rinks, or navigating airport terminals, her garments must allow complete freedom of motion.
• The Airport Uniform: A strict “no-ankle” rule keeps her wrapped in full-coverage oversized sets, paired with classic sneakers.

In Conversation: Alysa Liu on Self-Care and Style

On her post-competition recovery ritual:

“I unpack completely, shower, and either read or head outside and drink tons of water. After a big event, I just want to take off the dress, wash away the makeup, and slip into something genuinely comfortable.”

On balancing comfort and style in her daily rotation:

“I prioritize comfort, but it still has to look good, that’s non-negotiable. As an athlete, I need to move freely in whatever I’m wearing. You’ll find me in Studio Fleece at home, in the dance studio making choreography, and even during ice practice.”

On her signature hoodie silhouette:

“Oversized, always. It’s perfect for hiding away and feeling cozy. If you’re cold and sitting down, you can even pull it over your legs.”

The DFW Perspective: A New Era of Athletic Authenticity

For the Digital Fashion Week community, Alysa Liu represents a pivotal shift in how elite athletes interact with fashion. She proves that high performance doesn’t require conforming to rigid, legacy standards of poise. By merging authentic streetwear sensibilities with world-class athletic discipline, Liu demonstrates that true luxury is the freedom to be unapologetically yourself.

Editor’s Choice: Liu’s subversion of classic figure skating tropes in favor of oversized streetwear layering and self-directed choreography.

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