As a regular gymgoer before the whole world turned upside down, it felt a little disheartening to say goodbye to my collection of cute workout clothes at the start of last year. I know most people consider leggings a wardrobe staple, but outside of the gym, I rarely ever wore them in a true sartorial sense. That was until I discovered Girlfriend Collective—the IG-famous cult activewear brand championed for its size inclusivity and ethically made workout clothes. In a feeble attempt to get enthused over working out at home (FYI: I hate home workouts), I bought a set from the brand after hearing so many glowing reviews from friends. I was not disappointed.
Although I quickly dropped working out at home, I kept wearing the set everywhere I went. It was a cool, figure-hugging alternative to sweatsuits, and the simple, elevated design made it easy to wear with any layer I threw over it. Shortly after, my obsession with minimal activewear sets was born, and now that I can officially hit the elliptical and weight room in full form, you can bet I’m shopping for more.
In case you’re wondering, no, these aren’t the frumpy workout clothes you may have worn in PE years ago—these activewear sets take the elevated look of athleisure and combine it with the sporty performance ability to make it through an hour of yoga, HIIT, boxing, or all the above. Consider it the fully evolved form of athleisure that you can actually break a sweat in. Read on to check out all of the gorgeous sets I’m tempted to buy as well as how a few of our favorite fashion girls are wearing them.
The best part about Girlfriend Collective’s sets is that you can always mix and match between colors and styles, and they’re all reasonably affordable. Shop the matching Compressive Stretch Leggings ($68).
In terms of athletics, no other brand will give you as much optimum performance as Nike. Shop the matching Yoga Luxe Shorts ($55).
Almost too good to just wear to your yoga class. Shop the matching Composed Cycling Shorts ($43).
Everyone needs a stylish basic black set.
Coming in at $50 for the entire set, it’s one of the cheapest on this list, but it doesn’t skimp at all on performance ability and elevated design. Shop the matching Scout High Waist Bike Shorts ($25).
Next to the summer sandals and floral dresses, you can find Mango’s latest collection—an activewear line. Meant for low-impact activities, the items provide light support but look absolutely amazing. Shop the matching Sports Leggings ($50).
Everlane’s new activewear line feels like a second skin you never want to peel off. Highly recommend. Shop the matching Perform Pocket Legging ($58).
The crossover detail feels trend-forward in a subtle way that’s not too in-your-face. Shop the matching Corse Crossover Shorts ($58).
If you’re too frightened over potentially going to the gym in a pristine white set, I highly suggest this rich, neutral oatmeal shade, which feels like the next best thing.
Outdoor Voices makes some of the best leggings around.
Ukrainian brand Norba is a name to know if you like to discover new brands. Shop the matching Essential Sport Leggings ($90).
Even if you hate the gym, this cute set will keep you motivated to be seen. Shop the matching Spacedye Team Pockets High Waisted Biker Shorts ($72).
The ribbing on this just takes this set to a whole other level. Shop the matching Seamless Ribbed Leggings ($79).
The high-waist detail is super flattering. Shop the matching Veronica Ribbed Leggings ($104).
My favorite leggings of all time are from Alo, so you know this set is already in my cart. Shop the matching 7/8 Airlift Leggings ($114).
Take a cue from our favorite fashion girls and pair your two-piece with a classic trench coat for full-on Sporty Spice vibes. Shop the matching Geometric Leggings ($115).
The delicate touch of iridescence immediately catches the eye. Shop the matching Stretch Leggings ($128).
I’m all about this icy blue nowadays.
Avocado dreams. Shop the matching Scout High Waist Bike Shorts ($59).
Although the design is pretty understated, this punchy green is definitely not.
Sweaty Betty’s workout clothes really deliver if you’re into high-intensity sessions. Shop the matching Power 9-Inch Biker Shorts ($68).
Be the star of your barre class. Shop the matching High Waist Stretch Leggings ($124).
Carbon38 is literally a wonderland of cute workout clothes. Shop the matching Ribbed Regular Rise 7/8 Legging ($98).
From Instagram’s most endorsed athleisure brand. Shop the matching Ribbed Top ($47).
Suddenly, I wouldn’t mind 30 minutes on the StairMaster. Shop the matching Vamp Tights ($115).
