Whether you live in workout clothes [1] or occasionally throw on a pair of leggings, there's no denying the comfort and ease of activewear. Sure, black leggings [2], sports bras, and athletic shorts aren't exactly "fashion staples", but they are core pieces in any workout wardrobe and go-to's when the main goal of an outfit is comfort. So, when figuring how to wear workout clothes both for casual and dressy occasions, there are a few key styling tips to know when you want to look put together.
Now, there are plenty of naysayers who consider any trace of activewear [3] in an outfit to be lazy or worse, sloppy (I, for the record, am not one of those people and cherish my assortment of ultra-soft leggings). But thanks to the consistency of athelisure in fashion, styling these made-for-the-gym pieces is becoming par for the course (take the bike short trend [4] as a prime example), especially for off-duty occasions like the weekend. And there's nothing we love more than comfy-cute looks on Fridays and Saturdays.
So, in the spirit of fresh outfit ideas [5] that are both comfortable and stylish, ahead, we're breaking down six fun formulas that center around workout attire like leggings, sports bras, and bike shorts. From chic basics styled head to toe to quirkier combos รก la the street style set, we're pretty certain you'll be inspired to take your favorite piece of activewear for a spin ASAP.
How to Style Workout Clothes: Leggings + T-shirt + Jacket + Sneakers
Tone down the effect of printed leggings by mixing in simple pieces that feel cohesive with your chosen motif.
How to Style Workout Clothes: Leggings + T-shirt + Trench Coat + Sneakers
When running errands, a printed pair of leggings feels fun and functional in combination with a white t-shirt and classic trench coat.
How to Style Workout Clothes: Leggings + Shirt + Heels + Bag
For a sporty-meets-classic-meets-ladylike look, team a pair of cropped black leggings with a white button-down shirt, two-tone pumps, and a black belt bag.
How to Style Workout Clothes: Leggings + Shirt + Blazer + Heels
For those unabashed by color, this legging-and-shirt combo is a fun alternative to black and white. Fair warning: this outfit has maximalist written all over it.
How to Style Workout Clothes: Leggings + T-shirt + Blazer + Heels
For a dressy leggings look that works for dinner, an event, or even the office, team together a floral-print pair with a structured blazer, simple white tee, and modern mules.
How to Style Workout Clothes: Leggings + Tee + Jacket + Heels
The ultimate in fashion-girl styling, this mixed-print look is a stand-out way to rock capri leggings and a windbreaker. When layering prints, be sure to stick to a similar color palette so as to avoid that "I got dressed in the dark" look.