How To Style Activewear: 8 Women’s Health-Approved Ways

As a style writer who practically lives in lululemon leggings and Brooks walking shoes, I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve for making activewear work for nearly every occasion. It helps that some of our fave workout clothing brands have leveled up their fits, with sweats, jackets, and skirts that come in cute patterns and sleek silhouettes without sacrificing performance. When styled correctly, an activewear fit can be as chic as a little black dress.

But styling workout clothes outside the gym takes a bit of finesse. You need to know how to layer, and when to mix or match, says celebrity stylist Julie Matos. For example, head-to-toe gym gear without dressier layers reads unfinished, she says. Add a pair of wide-leg trousers or a shape-defining blazer to instantly spruce up your outfit.

Now for the fun part: Accessories. “The easiest way to dress up your activewear a little is to pay attention to the details,” says celebrity stylist Emily Men. Adding some statement earrings, a fitted baseball cap, or a handbag is an easy way to give your gym clothes a major glow-up.

Scroll on for plenty of editor- and stylist-approved activewear fits (and styling tips) that you can easily replicate with items that are probably already in your wardrobe.

How To Style Track Pants

I love a good track pant. It gives total retro vibes while being incredibly versatile. The key is to find a pair that fits you well—taller women might opt for a form-fitting or tapered pant, pear-shaped ladies can benefit from a wide-leg fit, and those with an hourglass shape can reach for a flared or bootcut pair. Vanessa Powell, celebrity stylist and fashion editor, suggests pairing yours with a white ribbed tank and a heel for an outfit that feels effortlessly cool but still dinner appropriate. Amp it up a notch with a leather or denim jacket, then accessorize with a boxy bag and your favorite jewels.

How To Style Sweatpants

When styling sweatpants, opt for a tapered pair, which narrows from the thigh to the ankles for a streamlined look that’s universally flattering, Matos says. Take yours from a Sunday bed-rot to running errands around town by pairing it with a long trench coat and a cropped tee, which will balance out the relaxed fit of the sweatpants. Not into the sweats-and-boots combo like our inspo pic above? Try a chunky sneaker and crew socks instead.

How To Style A Tennis Skirt

This combo gives major tenniscore vibes—which, if you ask me, will never not be in style. Simply pair a pleated tennis skirt with a sporty yet tailored jacket and a pair of polished loafers, and you’re totally set. The mix of structured and sporty pieces strikes a perfect balance between sporty and chic. Extra credit if you add some dainty jewelry for a touch of quiet luxury. If you’re not planning on rallying courtside, this fit works just as well for a lunch date with friends.

How To Style Leggings

A good pair of black leggings is the perfect base for layering. Try building an outfit around your favorite full-length pair—just be sure to avoid anything sheer (which looks sloppy), Matos says. Balance them with something roomy on top, whether it’s a boxy blazer or structured half-zip. This casual fit looks put-together because each item is sleek and clean. I love the dad shoe and crew sock combo, and 100% support headphones as a fashion accessory. Are you going to the gym or hitting up the farmer’s market? Don’t know, don’t care—because you look good.

How To Style A Sports Bra

Yes, you can wear a sports bra outside of the gym (and not just underneath a baggy sweatshirt—but more on that below). Choose a bright colored sports bra or one with a designed band if you want it to be the focal point of your outfit, or go for something plain for a more minimalist look. I love the idea of throwing one underneath a roomy pair of denim overalls to show it off without baring your midriff. Or, go for the preppy look and style a sports bra with a high-waisted skirt, Men says. Either combo offers just the right amount of contrast—equal parts sporty and styled, for a look that works for brunch with the girls or a night out on the town.

How To Style A Sweatshirt

Start with a sweatshirt or half-zip in a neutral color and pair it with a skirt or tailored pant of the same shade, then top it off with a structured jacket and sleek bag in the same color palette. A monochrome outfit always looks polished—and one or two structured pieces work wonders for balancing out the baggier fit of the sweatshirt, Powell says. I suggest wearing this combo for your next lunch date or coffee hang. Hello, most stylish (and comfy) girl in town.

How To Style Biker Shorts

Contrary to popular belief, biker shorts aren’t just for spin class. Start with a high-waisted pair—something with a thick waistband and slightly longer length for a slightly more elevated look. While I love a Princess Diana moment a la oversized crewneck and sneaks (perfect for a post-workout smoothie run, btw), Matos suggests dressing biker shorts up with an oversized blazer. Add a chunky boot or polished loafer with frilly socks to finish the look. The contrast of sleek activewear with tailored, statement pieces creates a mix that’s both unexpected and effortlessly chic, Matos says. This fit is ideal for a museum day or city stroll.

How To Style Jerseys

The jersey that’s been sitting in your drawer since you bought it last football season? It doesn’t have to stay benched until next game day. Give it a fresh spin by starting with a vintage or cropped style (which is on-trend and easier to dress up) and then play with texture. Pair it with a denim skirt or jeans, add leather boots, and layer on mixed metal jewelry for contrast. Styling both casual and classy pieces makes this look versatile enough for a concert, tailgate, or laid-back hang with friends.

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