Athleisure, a fusion of athletic wear and leisure clothing, has taken the fashion world by storm over the past decade. Once reserved for the gym or running errands, athleisure has evolved into a stylish and versatile category that allows individuals to blend comfort and fashion effortlessly. The key to mastering athleisure outside the gym is choosing the right balance of sporty and chic elements, which ensures that you can easily transition from your workout to brunch, a shopping trip, or a casual evening out. Here are the top five athleisure looks that you can wear outside the gym to achieve a fashionable, functional, and comfortable appearance.
- Athletic Joggers and a Blazer: Business Meets Comfort
One of the easiest ways to elevate your athleisure game is by pairing athletic joggers with a more sophisticated piece, such as a tailored blazer. The contrast between the relaxed fit of the joggers and the sharp lines of the blazer creates a unique look that’s polished yet comfortable—ideal for a day at work or a smart-casual outing.
Joggers, made from stretchy fabrics like cotton, fleece, or even technical materials, provide the comfort you need, while the addition of a blazer gives the outfit an elevated feel. Opt for joggers with a slim fit to avoid looking too baggy, and choose a blazer that’s well-fitted, preferably in neutral tones like navy, black, or gray. Pair the ensemble with a simple crew-neck t-shirt or a turtleneck for a sophisticated, effortless vibe.
For footwear, opt for sneakers that are sleek and minimalistic, such as white leather sneakers or simple black trainers. This ensures that your footwear complements both the athletic and professional elements of the outfit. The result is a look that works for meetings, business lunches, or casual get-togethers, effortlessly balancing workwear with workout-inspired comfort.
- Leggings and a Long Coat: A Street Style Staple
Leggings are the foundation of many athleisure outfits, and when styled correctly, they can be just as appropriate for running errands as they are for a night out. To elevate the typical leggings-and-tee combo, layer your leggings with a stylish long coat for a sophisticated street style look that combines warmth, comfort, and flair.
For this look, choose high-waisted leggings in black, navy, or a bold color like deep burgundy or emerald green. These colors are flattering and easy to style. Pair the leggings with a long coat, such as a sleek trench coat or a structured wool coat. The key to this look is balance: the slim fit of the leggings contrasts nicely with the oversized or structured silhouette of the coat.
To keep the athleisure vibe intact, opt for a chic, form-fitting hoodie or sweatshirt underneath the coat. This layering approach not only enhances the outfit’s style but also keeps you cozy during colder weather. For shoes, pair the look with trendy ankle boots or sleek sneakers to maintain comfort while still looking fashionable. You can also accessorize with a crossbody bag or a large tote to complete the outfit.
This style is perfect for a day in the city, whether you’re heading to brunch, doing some shopping, or attending an event with a casual dress code. It effortlessly mixes function with fashion, ensuring that you feel both relaxed and put together.
- Tennis Skirt and Cropped Sweatshirt: Sporty Chic for Warm Days
As athleisure continues to evolve, sporty and feminine combinations have gained traction, especially with the rise of tennis skirts. These skirts, often made of breathable fabrics with built-in shorts underneath, are a stylish and fun way to incorporate athletic wear into your everyday look. When paired with a cropped sweatshirt, this look channels a playful, sporty chic vibe that’s perfect for warmer weather or casual outings.
The tennis skirt is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For a more polished look, opt for a high-waisted white or navy skirt, which pairs beautifully with a cropped sweatshirt in neutral tones or pastel shades. A slightly oversized sweatshirt provides a relaxed, laid-back feel, while still giving you a stylish silhouette. For an added layer of sophistication, throw on a denim jacket or a lightweight bomber jacket.
Footwear is key to making this outfit stand out. White sneakers are a classic choice and complement the sporty vibe of the tennis skirt while providing comfort. If you’re going for a more elevated look, slip into a pair of espadrilles or low-profile sneakers. To finish the look, accessorize with a bucket hat, a simple chain necklace, and a small crossbody bag. This combination is perfect for running errands, enjoying a picnic, or even catching up with friends at a casual gathering.
- Track Pants and a Graphic Tee: Effortlessly Cool and Comfortable
For those who love the laid-back, athleisure aesthetic, track pants paired with a graphic tee create a simple yet stylish look that works for nearly any occasion. Track pants, typically made of lightweight, breathable fabrics like nylon or polyester, have a sleek, sporty look that’s both practical and trendy. By pairing them with a graphic tee, you introduce a fun, creative element that makes the outfit uniquely yours.
Track pants with side stripes or bold color-blocking are especially popular, offering a sporty vibe without feeling too formal. Opt for track pants with a tapered leg to avoid excess bulk, ensuring that they complement your shape without looking too loose. Pair the pants with a classic graphic tee—something with a vintage logo or a bold design that reflects your personality. For cooler days, you can layer with a casual jacket or a bomber jacket to add dimension to the outfit.
This look works well with classic sneakers, like Converse or Adidas, that align with the sporty aesthetic. Alternatively, a pair of chunky sneakers or slides can add a fun, fashion-forward twist. The outfit can be finished with a simple backpack or a small handbag to complete the easy-going yet stylish vibe. This athleisure look is perfect for a laid-back weekend, whether you’re running errands, grabbing coffee with friends, or taking a stroll in the park.
- Sports Bra and High-Waisted Pants: Confidence in Comfort
For those looking to embrace a more daring athleisure look, pairing a sports bra with high-waisted pants creates a bold yet comfortable outfit that exudes confidence. While this may not be for everyone, when styled correctly, it can be a flattering and trendy choice, especially for the warmer months or more casual settings.
A high-waisted, wide-leg pant in neutral tones like black, beige, or olive green is a great choice for this look. These pants have the right amount of structure and style, making them versatile enough for both a gym session or an afternoon outing. Pair them with a fitted, minimalist sports bra, either in a matching color or a subtle print. This creates a sleek, cohesive outfit that’s stylish and functional.
To add an extra layer of sophistication, throw on a lightweight jacket or a cardigan, which balances the exposed midriff while providing an extra element of warmth. For footwear, opt for platform sneakers or sandals to keep the look grounded yet chic. A simple tote bag or a small backpack will add a practical touch while keeping your essentials organized.
This athleisure outfit works best for brunches, a day at the park, or casual weekend events. It’s a confident, stylish look that showcases your personal sense of fashion while allowing for comfort and movement.
