The days of stiff, unstylish workout gear are over. Now more than ever, fashion brands are turning out clothing that is as functional as it is stylish. One only needs to step into any major fashion retailer to convince themselves that there are tons of great options for anyone who wants to look great while working out (as well as have the option to seamlessly transition from the gym to the street without needing a whole new outfit.) The great thing about the “athleisure” trend is that there are so many clothing items being made with that specific purpose in mind.
Track pants are tailored and t-shirts are fitted and made in comfortable, breathable cotton. Pieces like these can be worn on a night out as well as to the gym. One overall tip: Try and form a “capsule wardrobe” of clothing items that can be worn all or mostly together. Stick with neutral colors that are easily paired before branching out to statement pieces. With that in mind, below are ten of the best pieces of workout apparel for 2019.
- Striped Track Pants
Modern striped track pants should fit like a slim-fit jean, and be tapered at the ankle. It’s good to have a pair in cotton or fleece as well as a nylon or polyester. It’s also a good idea to own a few in neutral colors, along with a few bold, brighter pairs.
- Sock Sneakers
Sock sneakers require a bit of tact to pull off, but they are a great look. They fit how you might expect them to. They usually don’t have laces and instead opt for stretchy sides that allow them to be slipped on like a sock. They are comfortable and look great with a pair of leggings, joggers, or mesh shorts.
- Moisture-Wicking Shirt
The moisture-wicking t-shirt is a gym staple. Stay away from compression shirts and instead opt for form-fitting (but not suffocating) fits. They come in a variety of different styles, but opt for a mid-range shirt in a black or grey to start with.
- Running Tights
Running tights are a great option for when you don’t want to wear joggers or sweatpants but it’s too cold for just shorts. These come in a variety of cool patterns or in solid colors. Feel free to mix and match colors and patterns with shorts overtop.
- Striped Socks
Vintage-style striped socks are fun without being tacky. The half-calf style sock harkens back to the outfits of old-school boxers and basketball players.
- Full-Zip Hoodie
A full-zip hoodie is endlessly versatile and is a gym essential. A light grey fleece fabric is a great option here. The great thing about hoodies is that they look great with joggers or shorts, and can be easily transitioned for street wear.
- A Well-Fitting Tank Top
Stay away from stringers. We repeat, stay away. Even if you’re in great shape, they almost always look tacky. Instead, opt for a tank that has plenty of structure and a thicker fabric. Long and boxy is better than short and tight. Tank tops have the benefit of leaving your arms unrestricted for a workout.
- A Stylish Gym Bag
A great gym bag helps you keep all of your gear and extra clothes (along with your shaker bottle full of whatever concoction the internet has convinced you to buy.) There’s no need for your bag to be an eyesore. Gym bags come in more classic, thick fabrics or lighter, athletic style fabrics that breathe easily.
