Whether you live in workout clothes or occasionally throw on a pair of leggings, there's no denying the comfort and ease of activewear. Sure, black leggings, sports bras, and athletic shorts aren't exactly "fashion staples," but they are core pieces in any workout wardrobe and go-tos 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 in an outfit to be lazy or worse, sloppy (I, for the record, am not one of those people and cherish my assortment of ultrasoft leggings). But thanks to the consistency of athleisure in fashion, styling these made-for-gym pieces is becoming par for the course (take the bike short trend as a prime example), especially for off-duty occasions like the weekend. And there's nothing we love more than comfy-cute looks on Saturdays and Sundays.
So, in the spirit of fresh outfit ideas that are both comfortable and stylish, ahead, we're breaking down nine fun formulas that center on workout attire like leggings, sports bras, and bike shorts. From chic basics styled head to toe to quirkier combos à la the street style set, we're pretty darn certain you'll be inspired to take your favorite piece of activewear for a spin ASAP.
Tone down the effect of printed leggings by mixing in simple pieces that feel cohesive with your chosen motif.
POPSUGAR Babydoll Swing Tee ($22, originally $30)
Frame Bishop Suede Jacket ($537, originally $895)
When running errands, a printed pair of leggings feels fun and functional in combination with a white t-shirt and classic trench coat.
POPSUGAR Ruffle-Sleeve Tee ($22, originally $30)
Take a sports-bra-and-shorts set for a spin outside the gym by layering a lightweight jacket over top and finishing with combat boots for a '90s grunge finish.
POPSUGAR Denim Cropped Jacket ($26, originally $64)
Madden NYC Keen Combat Boots ($65, originally $70)
Give leopard leggings a date-night spin by styling with a graphic tee, leather jacket, playful heels, and a mini bag.
POPSUGAR Plus Size Slouchy Graphic Tee ($22, originally $30)
Jaggar Virtual Toe Ring Sandals ($115, originally $164)
Carolina Lemke Serena Sunglasses ($38, originally $75)
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.
POPSUGAR Knot-Front Button Down Shirt ($33, originally $44)
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.
POPSUGAR Knot-Front Button Down Shirt ($33, originally $44)
If you're into the bike short trend, go the nostalgic route via a boy-band t-shirt. Black sneakers and a backpack are the ultimate extras for on-the-go style.
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.
POPSUGAR Babydoll Swing Tee ($22, originally $30)
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.
POPSUGAR Elbow Sleeve Mockneck Top ($27, originally $36)