Be honest: When was the last time you bought new workout leggings? If the answer is “forever ago” (which we wouldn’t judge, because we still own pairs that’ve seen better days), perhaps its time to consider some fresh options. A new group of activewear brands are redefining what it means to get dressed for the gym, with designs appealing to a fashion-savvy set while also remaining totally practical. Ahead, six brands the cool girls at your local fitness studio (you know, the ones who somehow make planks look elegant) are probably rocking.
ADAY
The best kind of activewear is the kind that you can also integrate into real life—because, let's be honest, there are a million other things we do that don't involve a gym. This is precisely ADAY's m.o., as evidenced by the tagline: "Technical clothing for everyday life." Most of the pieces are perfect for those weekend Pilates classes that run straight into brunch, like their popular Throw & Roll Leggings (which feature pockets and jazzy zippers) are as functional as they are on-trend (thanks to the athleisure movement).
Shop ADAY here
Varley
Featuring a covetable selection of coordinated bra-top-and-legging combos (among other fitness essentials), Varley is our go-to for stylish, printed separates—seriously, their marble and snakeskin motifs are major. With a largely neutral palette, their pieces can be easily mixed and matched together for your next barre or spin class.
Shop Varley here
Outdoor Voices
Helmed by a 20-something female entrepreneur (which, of course, we love), Outdoor Voices has quickly climbed the ranks to become one of today's most in-demand athletic apparel brands. Since it appeals to city slickers with recreational tendencies, the company has already amassed fans like Lena Dunham, Allison Williams and Gwyneth Paltrow in just a few short years. In case you needed further proof of it's prestige within the fashion community, OV recently launched a collaboration with A.P.C.
Shop Outdoor Voices here
Sweaty Betty
London-based Sweaty Betty is a staple overseas, and is making a significant splash here in the States (the brand has been compared Lululemon's popularity here). Their brand-new Power Leggings have been spotted on celebs like Hilary Duff and Jamie Chung, and they have a host of other options for runners and yogis alike.
Shop Sweaty Betty here
Alo Yoga
A favorite of mega-stars like Taylor Swift and Bella Hadid, Alo Yoga is the must-have brand for ladies who love yoga... and also for those who require a sleek athleisure look for coffee runs. The brand's "studio-to-street" mantra lives up to the hype—their clothing is insanely comfortable and soft.
Shop Alo Yoga here
P.E Nation
Aussie athleisure label P.E Nation boasts a range of colorful crop tops, sweatshirts and more that all evoke a sense of retro, tomboy cool. Too fun to relegate to gym-wear only, varsity stripes and splashy graphics make it easy to work these pieces into an everyday ensemble.
Shop P.E Nation here
