The activewear space is no longer about black leggings and tank tops only. As the lines between workout gear and street wear continue to blur, it's easier than ever to build a versatile, on-trend, and, most importantly, fun collection of looks that you can wear to the gym one day, and out to lunch the next.If you've found your athletic wardrobe is lacking in the creativity department, you'll be surprised at just how far a few simple swaps can go. By switching out your sports bra or worn-out college tee for a fresher (but just as functional) crop top, you'll realize that getting dressed for the gym can look just as good as anything else. The ideas ahead will help you bring your workout look from sad-face to muscle-flexing emoji in no time.
Swap: Your Sports Bra
While a sports bra is a workout must, there isn't much about a simple black one that really gets you pumped to hit the gym.
Champion The Great Divide Bra, $40 $31.99, available at JCPenney.
For: A Sports Crop Top
An activewear crop top is the cool, athleisure alternative to your average sports bra. It's trendy while still being supportive, and can be worn on its own with leggings or joggers, or layered underneath a loose tee or hoodie.
T by Alexander Wang Cotton-blend Piqué Sports Bra, $140 $84, available at MatchesFashion.
Swap: Your Backpack
There's nothing wrong with that tried-and-true carryall you use half for the gym, and half for everything else. But, don't overlook the opportunity to let your workout-ready bag make a major statement.
Herschel Supply Co. Reid Backpack, $59.99, available at Herschel Supply Co.
For: A Mesh Duffle
Find a bag that's actually made for the gym (it's waterproof and comes with a drawstring sneaker bag), but doesn't feel too athletic to tote around day-to-day. A duffle is still hands-free, and can transform into a smaller or larger size depending on how little (or how much) you'll be carrying.
The Transcience Bag, $240, available at Bandier.
Swap: Your Plain Black Leggings
You live in your black leggings on the weekends, we get that. But when it comes to working out, it's time to take things up a notch.
Topshop Petite Airtex Insert Leggings, $38, available at Topshop.
For: A Textured Pair
Put a fashionable twist on your typical leggings by opting for an interesting material (like these stretch-velvet ones that are perfect for yoga or barre class). Since they look a little more dressed up, there's zero shame in keeping these on for afternoon brunch, too.
Lisa Marie Fernandez Karlie Stretch-velvet Leggings, $265, available at Net-a-Porter.
Swap: Your Standard Running Shoe
We're betting your go-to sneakers have probably seen better days. Treat yourself to a pair that embraces both technology and style.
Stella McCartney Pomegranite PureBoost Running Shoes, $180, available at Stella McCartney.
For: A "Sock Fit" Sneaker
Once you try Nike's recently released running shoe, you'll be hooked. The sock-style detail of the FlyKnit fabric at the ankle essentially makes it feel like your shoes have disappeared from underneath you as you're running. Talk about a game-changer.
Nike Women's LunarEpic FlyKnit MP, $175, available at Nike.
Swap: Your Yoga Mat
Yoga devotees have likely been lugging around the same heavy mat for months now. But there are more efficient, lighter-weight options available that you should definitely be taking advantage of.
Barefoot Yoga Co. The Original Eco Yoga Mat $85 $59.50, available at Barefoot Yoga Co.
For: A Travel Option
Super light-weight and easily foldable, this mat was made for yogis on the go. You can use it on its own or as a cover for a studio mat; it comes with a carrying strap, and it's machine-washable.
Yoga Design Lab Travel Mat, $49, available at Yoga Design Lab.
Swap: Your Crewneck Sweatshirt
You've wanted some heavier layers for going to and from the gym this winter, but now's the time to inject some of your style into your layering game.
Etudes Studio Sweatshirt, $131.38, available at Ekseption.
For: A Cool-Girl Hoodie
Hoodies are having a major model-off-duty moment, so try a cropped version (to wear over that aforementioned crop top) for a workout-ready look so good you'll have to take a #gymselfie.
Kith Taylor Black Crop Hoody, $160, available at Kith.
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