Words by Nicola Campbell

I’ve just returned from a long weekend in Palma with my school friends — a special joint 50th birthday treat for us that was all boutique hotel bliss, bubbles, and belly laughs. But amidst all the fun, one unexpected highlight stole my heart — the Oysho store directly opposite our city-centre hotel.

Yes, our hotel might have sat neatly above Louis Vuitton, but it was Oysho that truly captured my attention. One swoop around the store and I was hooked: quilted jackets in muted camel, ivory roll-neck knits, throw-on hoodies, “mould-to-you” leggings, a sleek running top, and socks so soft they should come with a warning. My 20kg hold luggage was seriously challenged on the way home — so much so that I boarded the plane dressed like the Michelin Man, in full autumn layering mode. Worth it? Absolutely.

Zara’s Cool Sister

If you’re not yet familiar with Oysho, think of it as Zara’s effortlessly cool sister — part of the Inditex family (which also includes Massimo Dutti, Stradivarius, and Pull&Bear). Originally known for its lingerie and sleepwear, the brand has evolved into a haven for modern loungewear and activewear. It’s for those days when we might technically know that “athleisure” isn’t fashion’s hottest word — but still reach for it anyway. Because let’s be honest, we all do.

Everyday Style, Elevated

Building a tonal, pulled-together loungewear wardrobe is easy at Oysho. The brand’s brushed cotton sets, base layers, and seamless separates come in chic, neutral palettes that make you look and feel instantly more polished. Their straight-cut knitted trousers with stretch waistbands and pockets are the kind of pieces you’ll want in every colour.

Soft Sustainability

What sets Oysho apart, though, is its design sensibility. The aesthetic is refined and minimal — less “gym logo mania”, more “quiet luxury meets comfort”. Their famous compression leggings and performance tops use innovative fabrics like Comfortlux for a sculpting yet breathable fit, while sustainability sits firmly at the core of the brand.

Come To Scotland, PLease

There are still only two Oysho stores in the UK, both in London (for now), but their online store is seamless to shop — and returns are refreshingly straightforward. The only slight sting? Prices are noticeably higher here than in Spain — a likely Brexit hangover — which means I now have one more reason to plan a return to Palma.

Until Oysho makes its way north of the border (surely it’s only a matter of time, please), I’ll be leading the one-woman campaign for a Scottish store. In the meantime, I’ll be shopping online and dreaming of soft knits, sculpted leggings, and those socks that started it all. Or heading back to Palma for take two with schoolies. No excuse needed, actually.