We're long past the point of wearing sportswear strictly to the gym. Not only is the term "athleisure" officially in the dictionary now, but people are creating entire brands based solely on the concept. And unlike other buzzy trends of the moment, it shows no signs of slowing. Demand is still on the uptick, and more and more established retailers, international shops, and indie labels are creating product to keep up. So if you haven't already started wearing all of your breathable, sweat-proof clothing on days when you don't suspect you'll even get close to a workout, it's a good time to start.
As you've guessed, the hard part isn't finding something that you like — it's about having the will power to not add everything you like to your cart. Between party-ready basics made for movement to yoga pants too pretty to keep in your gym bag, building a workout wardrobe is the easiest it's ever been. Click on to step into our gym-to-street picks, whether or not there's an actual sweat session in your future.
Attention: You don't have to run track to wear track pants. Replace your usual trouser with athletic-inspired bottoms that'll make you feel like you're wearing your sweats, but that still look 100.
Topshop Satin Cuffless Jogger, $85, available at Topshop.
Take a cue from Leandra Medine and make athletic-looking tube socks your new wardrobe staple, with sneakers and sandals alike.
& Other Stories Shimmery Striped Socks, $12, available at & Other Stories.
Give your armpits all the room they need to breathe in a crop top ready for whatever the day will throw at you — sardine-packed, no-AC subway train included.
Outdoor Voices Striped Slashback Crop, $60, available at Outdoor Voices.
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These ultra-light sneaks may be intended for the dance studio, but don't hesitate to break them out for everyday wear. The foam midsoles provide lightweight cushioning, and flexible rubber soles make for the comfiest footwear that'll instantly boost your sneakerhead cred.
Reebok, $89.99, available at Finish Line
The polo is back, and it's time to let it into your everyday wardrobe.
L'Etoile Short Sleeve Stripe Polo, $225, available at L'Etoile.
The silhouette and zipper detail on these leggings give you a more convincing "They're pants, I swear!" argument.
Live The Process Oblique Stretch Wide-Leg Pants, $155, available at Net-a-Porter.
An equally versatile and breathable dress that hits in all the right places? Add to cart, stat.
Monreal Finish Line Dress, $275, available at Monreal.
Try a waterproof bodysuit for your next sure-to-be-sweaty night out.
Lululemon Go With The Flow One Piece, $118, available at Lululemon.
Pair a colorblocked zip hoodie with some wide-leg mom jeans for a weekend ensemble that's delightfully unexpected.
Sweaty Betty Ocean Bay Zip Through, $225, available at Sweaty Betty.
Make a case for the visor with this scene-stealing transparent variation, and let the haters keep hatin'.
Tory Sport Transparent Visor, $35, available at Tory Sport.
An athletic short that's almost too pretty to work out in, which is why you don't have to be working out to wear 'em.
The Upside Cappella Short, $129, available at The Upside.
A backless, hooded romper, a.k.a. the wardrobe piece you never knew you needed.
ASOS Backless Hooded Romper, $41, available at ASOS.
Add a little color to your errand-running lewk and you'll have compliments flowing in left and right in the frozen-food isle.
No Ka' Oi Kuke Pant, $185, available at No Ka' Oi.
Sport a tennis look, even when there's no court in your vicinity, by pairing a skirt with a tee and some tennis shoes for a weekend brunch plan.
Lacoste Ultra Dry Jersey Pleated Tennis Skirt, $95 $65.99, available at Lacoste.
You won't have to worry about the contents of your bag overheating with this breathable mesh carry-all — so long, melted Chapstick.
H&M Mesh Shopper, $24.99, available at H&M.
Not a fan of short-shorts? You're in luck, because 'tis the season of the Bermuda — and you get bonus points for an effortlessly sporty version.
P.E Nation The Hawk Mesh Short, $99.09, available at P.E Nation.
Whoever said sweatshirts were sloppy? This one looks nicer than we usually do on a Monday.
ADAY Like A Boss Sweatshirt, $95, available at ADAY.
Leave the button-fly at home in exchange for a movable, breezy culotte that make jeans a thing of the past.
Being Drawstring Culottes, $85, available at Being.
Layer a high-neck bra under a scoop-neck tee for a bold summer layering move.
Forever 21 High Impact Ladder Sports Bra, $14.90, available at Forever 21.
The anorak meets the bomber in this off-duty topper that goes with just about anything.
COS Drawstring Silk Jacket, $175 $88, available at COS.
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