The chicest brands to know about and wear on repeat.
With many of us working out at home, or taking up outdoor running in lieu of our favourite gym sessions, a chic new activewear look can give the boost of motivation we need – particularly on dark winter mornings. If you are anything like me, activewear has also become my daily outfit since the pandemic began: not just reserved for a sweaty HIIT session. It seems athleisure is here to stay, and so we want to ensure we’re kitted out in the most cosseting of structures, durable and comfortable fabrics, and fashion-forward designs.
These are the names to have in your repertoire, from emerging labels to established icons.
LA-based, Danish-born, influencer-turned-designer, Anine Bing, has won a coterie of fans for her eponymous fashion line which merges Scandi simplicity with an all-American energy. Now she has introduced ANINE BING Sport: a new category of activewear staples made to mix and match with the main collection's luxe wardrobe essentials. We love the Blair biker shorts, spun in a super compressing and quick-drying fabrication – they are perfect for a high-intensity exercise class. Come Spring, we will be pairing with a chunky knit or sleek blazer, for dressed down insouciance.
Launched in 2019 by former fashion journalist, Anna Laub, PRISM² is a versatile collection of multi-functional separates, that can be worn as shapewear and/or intimates, sportswear, and swimwear. This makes them perfectly versatile for packing on trips. Utilising the compressing structure of shapewear, finding your size is made so easy: size 1 fits a UK 6-16, and size 2 fits a UK 18-22. We also love the elevated neutral palette, from dusty pink to creamy taupe.
A long-time doyenne of activewear, we still can’t get enough of Sweaty Betty's bum-lifting Power leggings. The style is practically iconic, with it's sculpting and lifting silhouette and universally flattering shape, peachy bottoms are in reach without 1000 daily squats. Available in a vast array of ever-expanding colourways and prints, there’s a pair for every day of the week… and then some.
Australian newcomer, NAGNATA, is paving the way for sustainable, fashion-forward activewear. With directional designs and 'movements', rather than seasonal drops, new pieces are made to compliment existing collections – meaning you'll love them for many years to come. The technical knits are constructed from ethically sourced organic cotton: the soft, natural, and breathable fibre absorbs the sweat and toxins released from your body during a sweaty Vinyasa session.
If you are after activewear imbued with the effortless style of a Parisienne, look to Ernest Leoty. Ernest Leoty, was a famed 19th-century corset marker, so it's unsurprising the designs are the couture of activewear. Think clean lines, sophisticated silhouettes, and a classic colour palette. Sleek bodysuits and tailored leggings are perfect for layering with your wardrobe essentials, taking you from workout to coffee shop, and everywhere in between.
Horizon Athletic is the brain child of Australian professional athlete Marlena Gabriel, who went in search of the perfect sporting garments, and in the end decided to create her own. Taking into consideration the ecological concerns she could see on her doorstep, the active and swim range is made with Econyl®: a recyled fibre made from abandoned fishing nets and other consumer waste. There's no compromise on style: this one-piece with peek-a-boo details, is definitely one to add to your main grid.
The track suit has become the unofficial unform or our increasingly at-home lives. And they don't get much more covetable than those created by American label Pangaia. Worn by influencers, editors, and models alike, the super-saturated hues- from sugary violets to fuschia and luscious green have been blowing up Instagram. Sold as separates, you can go as bold as you like, even if just to sit on the sofa.
British label Holland Cooper is our go-to for elegant countryside inspired tailoring with an equestrian feel. For a smart take on activewear, look out for the HC Studio line. It launches next month in a sophisticated palette of black, charcoal, and marl grey. From bras and leggings to joggers and sweaters, there's a chic style solution for all work outs.
Australian brand, P.E. Nation was founded by former colleagues and best friends, Pip Edwards and Claire Tregoning in 2016 after seeing a gap in the market for fashion-forward activewear. The collections marry style and function – these are the clothes you want to wear, even when it’s a rest day. Playful colour-blocking is the signature.
Live the Process is a fashion-forward activewear brand that makes minimal pieces that easily slip into your daily wardrobe. The brand offers everything from activewear leggings to sports bras, to knit sets you will want to live in. The ballet-inspired wrap tops are our favourite, best suited for warming up ahead of your barre or yoga class.
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