As the holiday season winds down and you enjoy some downtime before the new year, you’re probably thinking about those pesky New Year’s resolutions. Maybe you want to take control of your health or go to the gym more next year. Perhaps you want a total style makeover that makes it appear as if you spend time at the gym. In comes athleisure. Athleisure is a combination of sport-inspired athletic wear and comfortable leisure wear. It’s a simple way to incorporate sporty looks into your everyday life.
We’ve put together a list of the best athleisure pieces to add to your closet right now. There’s something for everyone here, from a matching set to a fanny pack to a ’70s-inspired onesie, whether you’re getting ready for a workout or just watching another movie at home.
- For a bold-colored matching set: Turtleneck and GapFit Leggings
In the GapFit High Rise Recycled Power Full-Length Leggings, you’ll break a sweat. These leggings are made of a soft, moisture-wicking fabric that will keep you dry during your workouts. Fans of the leggings say they are comfortable, stay in place while working out, and are long-lasting. Though they come in eight different colours and prints, we think the electric neon green is the most current and stylish option. The style is available in women’s regular, tall, and petite sizes XXS to XXL.
We recommend pairing the leggings with a matching top, such as the GapFit Breathe Turtleneck, for a complete look that is appropriate for both the gym and the coffee shop. According to customers, the turtleneck is soft and has an exceptional fit. The sleeves even have thumbholes to keep your shape. The Breathe Turtleneck is available in five colours in women’s regular, tall, and petite sizes XXS to XXL.
- lululemon Convertible High-Rise Hiking Jogger for versatility and comfort
We thought lululemon’s hike collection was functional, well-made, and trendy when we tested it. One of the highlights of our test was the lululemon Convertible High-Rise Hiking Jogger. These aren’t your typical cargo pants because the legs unzip to reveal shorts. These versatile and stylish pants are an easy way to upgrade your look if your hikes take you across climates or on days when the weather is simply unpredictable. The style is available in three colours and women’s sizes 0 to 14.
- Girlfriend Collective Zip-Front Dylan Tank Dress for a sporty throwback look
Girlfriend Collective’s tennis-inspired Zip-Front Dylan Tank Dress is ideal for making a fashion statement whether you’re heading to the courts or the streets. This retro style is made of 79% recycled plastic bottles and 21% spandex and is lined with a full unitard with pockets for keys, phones, and tennis balls. Girlfriend Collective recommends ordering one size up from your normal size because the dress runs small, but that’s okay because the brand has one of the most inclusive size ranges in the industry. The style is available in two colours and women’s sizes XXS to 6XL.
- For a retro look in a modern package: Leg Warmers by Alo Goddess
Alo’s Goddess Leg Warmers bring the ’80s back in a big way. These leg warmers are made from the same stretchy ribbed material as Alo’s famous Goddess Leggings, but are designed to be more versatile, allowing you to pair them with dresses, leotards, or another pair of tights for added warmth. Built-in stirrups keep the leg warmers in place as an added bonus. The leg warmers are available in five different colours and women’s sizes XS/S to M/L.
- FP Movement for a one-and-done look Flared Good Karma Onesie
If the ’80s are too much of a commitment, try the Good Karma Flared Onesie from Free People Movement for a change. The flared-leg jumpsuit appears to be equally at home at a disco-themed party as it is in a yoga class. The scoop neckline and knit waistband keep the onesie in place during your workouts. This onesie is available in women’s sizes XS/S to XL and comes in a bold cerulean blue called Mid Atlantic by FP Movement and a burgundy called Henna by FP Movement. - To get in on the quilted trend, try: Apres Ski Jogger by Athleta
Athleta’s new Après Ski Joggers are one of the most unique styles the brand has offered in a long time. The pants are available in women’s regular, tall, and petite sizes 0 to 16 in soft Heron Blue, creamy Abalone Grey, and classic black. The pants are made with Athleta’s Primaloft Eco Silver, a premium down alternative that keeps your legs warm and toasty in all weather conditions. Ribbed cuffs, a waist drawcord, and zip pockets add functionality and utility to this lovely garment.
- The Upside Fleur Saasha Top is a classic golf-inspired look.
We’re obsessed with retro looks this season, and The Upside’s Fleur Saasha Top is no exception. This modern polo in soft pink with red and white stripe details along the sleeves and collar pairs beautifully with high-waisted trousers and sneakers for a look that will work on the golf course as well as mid-day shopping trips. The style is available in women’s sizes XS to L.
- To carry your daily necessities: Fanny Pack Epperson Mountaineering
The Epperson Mountaineering Fanny Pack is a classic design that will hold all of your daily necessities whether you’re going to the gym, hiking, or rushing to class. Because of its small size and hands-free design, this bag is ideal for any occasion. You can wear the bag around your waist or, for a more modern look, crossbody it around your torso.
- GymShark Elevate Longline Sports Bra for all-day comfort.
Pair a sports bra with leggings to create a winning athleisure ensemble. Instead of a smaller and more revealing top, choose a bra with more coverage. GymShark’s Elevate Longline Sports Bra provides extra support, and the longline design means the band hits lower on the torso. This bra is available in five colours and women’s sizes XS to XXL. It is made of breathable lightweight material that will wick away sweat to keep you dry during your most strenuous workouts. - For layering and lounging: Hoodie Alo Muse
A well-designed sweatshirt has to be the garment that defines athleisure. The design of Alo’s Muse Hoodie is completely modern. The hoodie hangs away from the body for a totally modern look, with a cropped length, long sleeves, and an oversized hood. Combine the hoodie with jeans, leggings, or even pyjama pants for a look that’s both comfortable and functional. The style is available in five different colours and women’s sizes XS to L.
