How to Pull off the Athleisure Outfit Trend Beyond the Gym

My weekend mornings usually begin with a quick trip to the gym, followed by running errands, meeting up with friends for coffee, and going on leisurely strolls around my New York City neighborhood. These moments often call for comfortable looks that are stylish enough to function outside of my workout routine, and that’s really when my athleisure outfit capsule wardrobe comes into play.

The formula is easy. I’ve learned that the key to creating a trophy-winning athleisure look involves seamlessly blending traditional sportswear (like ultra stretchy yoga pants, moisture-wicking T-shirts, and skin-tight biker shorts) with foundational pieces that are inherently more elevated, like crisp button-down shirts with sharp collars, glossy handbags that have a timeless appeal, and refined jackets and coats that can offer an extra layer and added dimension.

Of course, this high-low styling hack isn’t a huge novelty in the fashion world. Plenty of designers favor the juxtaposition between sporty and chic—just take a glance at several Fall 2024 collections. Sandy Liang styled a rosette-adorned sweat set with ballet-inspired slingback pumps; Phillip Lim championed the capri pants trend by way of leggings paired with a bulky sweater and a denim jacket, and Lacoste teamed a relaxed satin tracksuit with a ladylike handbag and a silk scarf accessorized around the handle.

You can also easily master the same look to take your activewear and athleisure outfits beyond the gym floor or pilates studio. Ahead, shop Marie Claire's curated edit of 10 athleisure outfits you'll want to pin to your weekend style mood board.

Game, Set, Match

You don’t have to be a tennis pro to wear a pleated skirt. Fashion folks are styling this sporty style alongside zip-up track jackets, polo shirts, and cable-knit sweaters (check out Marie Claire’s tennis outfits guide for reference). Choose this styling route or coordinate your tennis skirt with a matching crew neck top, as seen above. Balance your monochromatic set with high-end designer accessories that whisper, "quiet luxury."

Sambas for the Win

It’s no secret that Adidas Samba sneakers are dominating the fashion trend cycle. These neutral soccer shoes are so easy to style, so they deserve a top spot on your footwear roster. Dress them up with a white mini skirt and a soft cashmere sweater. Add a bit of texture to the mix with a woven raffia bag.

Zhuzh It Up

How does one make an all-black athletic outfit feel not-so-basic? Look no further than this style formula for answers. Throw a slightly structured yet lightweight jacket over your shoulders, slide into a pair of preppy patent leather loafers, and include polished finishing touches like cat eye sunglasses, gold jewelry, and a leather handbag.

Trendy Track Pants

If your TikTok algorithm is saturated with fashion content, chances are you’ve noticed that track pants are rising in popularity. Savvy content creators are even styling athletic short versions with every top imaginable—from office-friendly button-down shirts to tube tops for a night out. Try the trend for yourself by following suit, or pair your track pants with a matching bandeau and a cropped collared shirt styled open.

Retro Flair

Flip through the pages of Princess Diana’s sartorial playbook, and you’ll find that the late style icon had a fondness for coupling tight-fitting biker shorts with oversized graphic sweatshirts. Copy and paste this look into your collection of athleisure outfits by shopping the pieces below.

On the Move

If you're anything like me, your weekend schedule likely involves running errands before or after hitting the gym. Spruce up your post-workout look by swapping your sports bra with a laid-back tank top and throwing your gym bag aside in favor of a leather tote. Make sure to carry a zip-up sweatshirt just in case you get chilly.

Subtly Revealing

Show a hint of skin without going overboard with a slightly midriff-baring boxy top paired with high-waisted yoga pants that play up proportions. Complete the look with an old-school pair of lace-up sneakers, a slouchy leather tote, and over-the-ear headphones, which have become somewhat of an accessory in their own right.

A Cold-Weather Alternative

Given that fall is around the corner, brisk temperatures are lurking near. Prepare your collection of athleisure outfits accordingly with extra layers—like a mid-length coat and a crew neck sweater that you can easily wear over a tank top. Lean into fashion’s latest chunky sneaker trend with trainers grounded with thick cloud-like soles.

Transitional Dressing

This sporty look will also fit right into your transitional wardrobe. In addition to featuring extra layers (like a cozy cashmere sweater and an insulated wool coat), this look embraces an autumn-friendly color palette with dusty brown and midnight black shades.

Sophisticated Sweats

If you're not convinced you can wear sweatpants outside the house, this sophisticated set might make you change your mind. The short-sleeve trench coat is an anchor, while the shimmering jewelry and embellished loafers add an elevated touch.