In the age of work-from-home, I live in activewear—like many. Gone are the days of wearing my yoga pants to actual yoga (although I do that too.) Instead, I have a favorite tank for hanging out on the couch, my go-to joggers for when I want to look good (but not like I’m trying too hard), and of course, a pickleball dress to really lean into it while on the court. Every sport, occasion, and mood seems to demand its own leisurely ‘fit.
It’s no surprise, either. Unlike other clothing, activewear is meant to be sweat-wicking, close to the body, yet loose enough to not inhibit movement. It’s built with comfort in mind above all else, and don’t we deserve that?
As a professional shopping writer, I’ve waded through dozens of bra tops, shorts, leggings, joggers, exercise dresses, and the like activewear. Some have won me over, and some have missed the mark. Whether you’re packing for a trip, planning your next buy (or wishlist), or simply looking for some new OOTDs, here’s a full seven days’ worth of my favorites. Read on for my top picks from brands like Vuori, Aerie, Nike, and more of the best activewear.
Monday
First, opt for this sporty-cool ‘fit that genuinely fits any occasion. What else is better to start off the week?
OFFLINE by Aerie Seamless High Neck Sports Bra | I wear this striped sports bra for just about every occasion. It’s shockingly versatile, with a sporty-cool aura I love to rock. It’s casual enough to wear to trivia (tried and tested), for a light workout, or just hanging around on a friend’s back porch. I’ve worn it out with funky ripped jeans to go dancing and to the bars, and love its subtle compressive qualities. I love it so much that I’ve bought it in multiple colorways.
OFFLINE by Aerie Real Me Xtra Yoga Pants | Keep the Aerie stretch going with these stretchy (had to) yoga pants that seriously hit and flatter every angle. For one, they make me look practically Photoshopped. For another, they’re actually comfortable. As a tall gal, I appreciate how long they are too.
Tuesday
Especially in summertime, sometimes you just need to strip it down to the essentials. Go for a classic, hardcore workout set that’ll get the job done, whether you’re lifting, walking, or just hanging out you need best activewear. You can layer up or wear as-is. Warning: once you try this combo, you’ll want to stock up.
Nike Women’s Swoosh Medium-Support Sports Bra | As a product reviewer, I’ve tried dozens of sports bras, but I gravitate towards the Nike sports bra as the OG’s best activewear. Supportive, flattering, and available in some seriously gorgeous colors, I don’t notice this bra while I’m running or doing HIIT exercises (a major compliment.)
Nike Women’s Pro 3-Inch Shorts | Similarly, my stash of Nike spandex shorts keeps me going. I even wear them under dresses for security when at events or going out for some extra peace of mind. You can opt for matching shorts for an Olympic-worthy monochrome look, or just go with whatever waistband and fabric combination strikes your fancy.
Wednesday
Whether the temperature drops or you’re just feeling like bundling up, the next must-have in your repertoire is something layerable that flexes with every season.
Carbon38 Melt Jumpsuit | Carbon38 as a brand always bridges luxury and functionality in a highly appealing way. I’ve worn this one-piece in ski towns (layer with sweaters and boots) and in ninety-degree beach towns (just alone, with sneakers.) Its flattering V-neck and cozy fabric are bonuses.
Halfdays Pieper Fleece | Pair with a quarter-zip fleece for some softness. Bonus: it’s built with performance in mind by a skiwear and outdoors brand, so you can wear it on the trail in summer and the slopes in winter. (Or, you know, on a Zoom call in a coffee shop that’s gone a little too far on ramping up the A.C.)
Thursday
Relax into a jogger and tank set that still looks polished. At the end of your week, you want an outfit that practically feels like pajamas—but you’re in the final stretch.
Vuori Halo Performance Crop | This tank top is the most flattering of any I’ve ever worn. It has a built-in bra. Frankly, it accentuates any arm or shoulder muscles you might have too. Sizes go quickly, so you’ll want to act quickly if you see your size in stock.
Vuori Halo Essential Wideleg | The matching wideleg pants are soft to the touch. You’ll want to sleep, exercise, and socialize in them too.
Vuori Halo Essential Hoodie | Need an extra layer? Add the matching hoodie for a head-to-toe look.
Friday
An exercise dress can do double-duty for the weekend. I’ve gone out in this dress before thanks to its mini length and strappy top. Nobody’ll know, but its sweat-wicking properties and move-with-you fit are actually ideal for the dance floor.
Outdoor Voices Cross Back Dress | I practically live in Outdoor Voices exercise dresses on the weekends, and this open back adds extra flair. It’s available in black, navy, and lime—and they’re even all discounted for a limited time. Just add a denim jacket and earrings to dress it up if you so choose.
Saturday
Similarly, a body-hugging, basic white tank will be a compliment magnet every single time. Pair it with some colorful leggings for a go-to outfit.
Vitality Synergy V Tank | The unsung hero of my wardrobe, this ribbed, medium-compression shirt is available from sizes XS to 4XL. Hitting at the waistband, it’s an ideal length for wearing with jeans, skirts, or workout shorts to move in; plus, it looks seriously incredible with a summertime tan.
Girlfriend Collective Chateau Compressive High Rise Leggings | These compressive, high-rise leggings come in sixteen colorways ranging from a bright golden yellow to a deep army green. They’re even made from recycled water bottles, so you can feel good about your purchase.
Sunday
Sundays are for lazing, of course. Cue up the recovery goodies and hang out on the couch all day—we won’t tell, and rest is crucial to your performance throughout the next week too.
Daily Drills Cropped Sleeve Crew | This oversized, reversible tee is made of a thick French terry cotton that feels like your favorite sweatpants.Â
Daily Drills Super Shorts | This summer, you’ll want a pair of sweat shorts in your regimen to go along with. They’re oversized, adjustable, and meant for lounging.
Daily Drills Cropped Zip Hoodie | Don’t forget a cropped zip hoodie you can wear with absolutely everything. Its boxy style makes any outfit look effortless but put-together.
Rinse and repeat (literally) for another full week of outfits.
