I’ve mentioned before how I never used to pay much attention to wearing “cute” workout clothes. I was that person who was perfectly fine wearing a big old college t-shirt with gym shorts and calling it a day. Not that there’s anything wrong with that 
Over the past few months, though, I’ve found myself becoming the activewear junkie I swore I’d never be. I never realized what a huge difference the right, good quality activewear can make! And I’m not just talking about for the actual purpose of exercising.
Discovering that I actually enjoy fitness classes has really made all the difference. Using ClassPass and going to SoulCycle over the past few months has been the first time I can truly say I started to love working out. It has given me a confidence I never got from just going to the gym and doing the normal “30 minutes cardio, 30 minutes weights.” And with that, I want how I feel in my clothes to match the confidence I get from working out. Especially considering I work from home and often wear activewear all day long.
Unfortunately I’ve come to learn that the high quality activewear doesn’t usually do my bank account any favors. BUT, as I’ve always tried to do with my style/wardrobe as a whole, I’ve found the the key is balancing the pricier pieces with less expensive ones, and learning which are worth investing more into.
For example, I’ve found that it’s much easier to get decent workout tops that are less expensive. I love the activewear sections at stores like TJ Maxx, Forever 21, and Old Navy. I scored this Calvin Klein top from Marshall’s.
Bottoms are where I’m okay with spending a bit more. I’m really picky when it comes to the fit of workout shorts/pants because they must be super comfortable or it will bother me the entire time I’m working out. Some of my favorite brands for great workout pants are Athleta, Bandier, and Crane & Lion.
Despite the trendy look of these Lululemon leggings, they are actually ridiculously comfortable and great quality. They’re also cute enough to just wear out and about!
(I’m not seeing these on the Lulu website, but I got them in a their store just 2 weeks ago.)
My girl friends and I refer to embracing this look as “Sporty Spicing” it. I mean, hey, if it’s perfectly acceptable to wear comfy clothes and still look/feel cute, I’m entirely in favor of that.
What’s your favorite activewear brand?
I have those Lululemon bottoms too and love them! I want that Calvin Klein top though-so cute!
super cute!! I love the Spice Girls inspiration
I’m sort of a sucker for lululemon, but really just like them as my comfy leggings. I love the leggings/shorts from Fabletics! I’ve also been really lucky to find good leggings at Old Navy and at our TJMaxxx.
being a long-time fitness and running junkie, i have a whole dresser in my room just for my workout clothes! these are my fave things to collect for sure. i buy a lot at TJ Maxx & Marshall’s (cannot beat those prices!), and believe it or not, Walmart carries Danskin now (the old dance apparel company — so crazy!), and their workout clothes are awesome and so cute and SO affordable, it’s crazy. i always stock up when i go upstate. Nike running tights are my fave, and New Balance has a great outlet site: joesnewbalance.com. i love their sneaks and tops.
I like those leggings a lot! I want to order a pair… hope they show up soon. I wonder if they fit small or TTS?
Sporty Spice! You’re bringing up good memories here and I hope the title means you were a huge fan of the band, too :D! I know I was, haha.
I’m like you in combining more expensive items with affordable ones. Like running tights: I could live in them so they’re worth seeking out high quality for me but when it comes to the shirts I wear at the gym I just pick some nice regular ones.
You are rocking those leggings! I used to do the whole college t-shirts workout stuff too but I’m loving more fitted stuff now!
Love the outfit!!
Joe Fresh atually has great workout clothes, for an affordable price!