Workout Clothes You Can Wear to Work

If you’re an early-morning runner, gym rat or a fitness enthusiast in general, having the right workout gear is key. That said, finding a set of clothes that works in your professional environment can also be challenging — especially if you work in an office where suits aren’t the norm. Luckily, it’s becoming increasingly easier to blend your exercise attire with your day-to-day wardrobe.

The first step is choosing the right fabric. While cotton is soft and breathable, it can become heavy or cling to the body, making it a bad choice for intense sweating (think high-intensity training or yoga). Alternatively, try workout-friendly polyester shirts or pants made with fabrics like COOLMAX or SUPPLEX, which help wick away moisture and keep you cool.

You can also look for clothing with mesh vents and odor-fighting technology like Silverescent, which inhibits the growth of stinky bacteria. Having the right clothes to get you through your sweat-inducing workout can be the difference between keeping that three-times-a-week gym resolution and giving up on your goal because changing out of your baggy cotton shorts and tee shirt feels like a major hassle.

Once you’ve found the right fabric, the next step is choosing the best fit for your body type. For women, this means looking for flattering fits that hug the curves without clinging too tightly. A loose, flowy tunic-like top is ideal, as it can easily take you from the gym to work. You can also find options in neutral tones that won’t stand out in a business casual workplace, such as black and navy.

For men, the process is slightly more complicated because they need to consider the workplace dress code and how it relates to athleticwear. But for a business casual or even formal office, you can’t go wrong with a pair of sleek leggings and a comfortable crew-neck workout shirt. Pair these with a casual blazer, and you’ll have an outfit that looks professional enough for the boardroom while still being practical enough for a workout session on the treadmill or in the gym.

If you really want to up your game, look for matching sets in a range of colors and styles. UK-based Gymshark is a go-to for matchy sets in its second-skin crop tops and booty-lifting leggings, and it’s been worn by everyone from TikTok stars to Instagram fitness influencers (think Alessandra Ambrosio, Gabrielle Union and Hailey Bieber). Another option is Lululemon, which offers a wide range of refined yet stylish activewear that you can wear to work paired with a classic blazer. You can even find long-sleeve crops and matching joggers that you can wear to the gym in cold weather. (Just make sure to add a warm layer underneath for outdoor workouts). Just remember that no matter what outfit you choose, it’s important to have the right equipment on hand as well. For example, if you’re planning to run or lift weights, it’s best to opt for a fitted pair of running shoes that will prevent blisters.