Cropped, color-blocked, ribbed—my obsession with leggings knows no bounds, and the dozens of pairs stacked in my wardrobe is definite proof. But the Spanx Faux Leather Leggings were the one style missing from my repertoire. This elusive piece, which has thousands of five-star ratings across the internet, has been on my wish list for years. (Yes, years.) They finally made their way into my arsenal a few months ago, and I’m so happy they did. My only regret? Not buying these best-sellers sooner. 

Before even slipping into the leggings, I was impressed by the glossy material, which felt super luxe to the touch and seemed to have just the right amount of thickness to elasticity. The fabric, which is made of a stretchy blend of nylon, elastane, and spandex, isn’t flimsy at all—it has weight to it (like real leather pants) which I appreciate for wearing during the colder months. 

As promising as my first IRL impression was, I was still on the fence about how they would actually fit. Some reviewers say they’re compressive like shapewear, so would they be super tight? Would they turn sheer? Would they bunch up in all the wrong places? I’m happy to report the answer is “no” to all of these questions. 

Sure, these leggings are compressive, but nothing more than you would expect from a typical high-intensity workout legging. They feature a thick, high-waist band (the brand describes it as a “contoured power waistband”) that holds you in without rolling down or restricting you the least bit. Oh, and there’s no center seam (read: no awkward bulging or camel toe effect) to deal with. 

I’m 5’4″ and usually wear a size medium in leggings, but the Spanx size chart noted that these run small, so I sized up *just in case*.  I’m glad I did, because the larger size fits like a second skin. I also have an athletic build with a small waistline and muscular thighs, and the faux leather material highlights my features in the best way possible. (Cue the peach emoji.) 

If you’re preparing yourself for the best leggings with pockets to set you back some major coin, take a seat. As a longtime runner and curator of all things spandex leggings, I can confidently announce that I found primo running tights hiding in plain sight at Old Navy for just $20.

Before getting into the specs of the tights, I want to set the benchmark for what I mean when I refer to myself as a “runner.” I mean literally anyone who goes running. Though I seem to only get slower the more mileage I accrue, I’ve spent countless hours pounding the pavement and trying out various leggings in hopes of finding the perfect pair. Leggings need to fit nice and snug, offer decent compression that’s not too restrictive, and, the pièce de résistance, they need to have side pockets—seriously, get out of here with zip pockets that have room for maybe a key. The ability to slide in a phone, packet of electrolyte goop, and money so that I can stride hands-free makes all the difference in the quality of my runs. (Arm bands? Never met her.)

Where previous brands’ leggings with pockets have failed me (the pockets are usually either stiff or too small), the High-Waisted PowerSoft 7/8-Length Side-Pocket Leggings from Old Navy were a pleasant surprise. It’s like Old Navy heard all of the negative things I’d ever said about my leggings and whipped up a pair that would offer just the opposite. I knew people were loyal to the brand’s workout clothes, but I didn’t expect that I’d jump on the bandwagon so quickly.

I chose this specific pair primarily because of the glowing reviews. (Oh, did I not mention over 9,300 people have reviewed them?) Here’s one I found particularly compelling. “These are probably the fourth or fifth pair that I’ve purchased because I love this material and the side pockets. They’re so comfortable, are very flattering and functional, and they move great and keep me dry during a workout.”

Old Navy has eight categories of activewear bottoms, ranging from StretchTech to CozeCore (offering stretchy fits and providing warmth, respectively) and positions the High-Waisted PowerSoft 7/8-Length Side-Pocket Leggings as “light compression with a ridiculously smooth, peachy-soft feel.”

I selected a medium—sizes are offered in XS to 4X—and the minute I slipped my legs into them, I understood what Old Navy meant by “peachy-soft.” In terms of ease, they were like sliding on silk pants. Ordinarily, getting running tights into place can be a journey. I typically have to pull the fabric wide and negotiate around the knee before I can even get to the good thigh-yanking part. And the fit was spot on; they offered a nice compression without feeling tight or rigid. They’re made of 77% polyester and 23% spandex, which creates a stretchy-thin feel.

Since I don’t enjoy running with arm bands (they weigh me down and usually slip) I couldn’t wait to see what I could stuff into the side pockets. The first time I took these PowerSofts out for a run, I put my iPhone 12 mini on one side and a mask, chapstick, and zippered wallet in the other. The pockets are made of the same thin polyester-spandex material, so it was easy to slide everything in. 

During the run, everything stayed in place. No jangling, and nothing fell out. After the run, I came home, stretched, and sat in my own filth (for journalism) to see if they’d remain dry once the post-run sweat started. And they did! I’ve continued wearing and washing these, and they hold up up without pilling or losing elasticity. They’re even better for walks—in fact, last week I fit a mandarin in one of the pockets. Bottom line: Go ahead and add my name to the already long roster of PowerSoft fans. 

Once you find yourself in need of bump-friendly clothing, you might realize just how frustrating the shopping process can be. But figuring out where to buy maternity clothes, be they from dedicated maternity retailers and It labels alike, can make you feel a little more like yourself during pregnancy. With the right wardrobe picks, you no longer have to feel like you’re sacrificing style to get comfortable—or deal with stretchy tunics and shapeless sack dresses for months on end.

While go-tos like Nordstrom and Asos are filled with stylish finds for pregnant women to wear during all three trimesters and beyond, you’ll find some hidden gems here, too (including one beloved by the royals). To help with the transition after your bundle of joy is born, most of these brands offer stylish nursing and postpartum attire, too, from convertible bras, tops, and dresses to supportive leggings. 

Whether you’re looking to refresh your maternity wardrobe—all in a variety of price points, no less—or stocking up pre-pregnancy, scroll on to discover 16 brands for the best maternity clothes so you’ll be bumpin’ in style.

For budget-friendly options, it doesn’t get better than Asos Maternity. The retailer always hits a high note from athleisure to formalwear—we’re talking everything from romantic puff sleeves to sweatsuits. Plus, you can also find all the basics, including maternity pants, tees, cozy sweaters, and more. 

One of the most reliable retailers out there, Gap never fails us for closet staples like jeans, sweater dresses, and activewear. To accommodate a changing body, the retailer delivers on stylish bump-friendly options to stock up on, including the often-overlooked category of maternity underwear. (FYI: Its sister store, Old Navy, is also a winner for more trendy maternity finds.)

Counting numerous celebrities, including Kate Middleton, as fans, Seraphine is a luxurious maternity label for everything from daily essentials to formalwear. Come for the exact (and highly versatile!) LBD worn by Middleton, stay for the prettiest assortment of comfortable dresses, knitwear, lingerie, and winter essentials like the 3-in-1 down puffer coat and sherpa-lined hoodie. Plus, the brand offers matching mini-me styles!

A Pea in the Pod is one of the OG spots for stylish maternity clothing, focusing on trend-driven picks and versatile staples alike from the coolest brands—think ribbed and midi dresses from BB Dakota, tie-dye and cable-knit sweaters from Splendid, the softest leggings and all-in-ones from Bumpsuit, and straight-leg cropped jeans and skinnies from AGOLDE, Citizens of Humanity, Frame, and J. Brand. You’ll also find cool collabs—like the latest curated selection by Something Navy—featuring the season’s best picks, from holiday dresses to cold-weather knits and leisurewear.

Since its inception by Ariane Goldman in 2011, Hatch has been a mecca for stylish and timeless maternity wear for women through every stage of pregnancy. Not only can you shop based on the trimester you’re in (including the often-overlooked fourth trimester, a.k.a. peak nursing and post-partum), but the maternity line also offers a wide assortment of blouses, knits, dresses, and comfy loungewear—consider your WFH uniform of professional on top, cozy on the bottom fully covered. You can also snag gorgeous dresses worthy of your baby shower and seriously cute maternity PJs.

Specializing in maternity and nursing-smart clothing, Motherhood Maternity has been all about maternity style since 1982. You’ll find all the pregnancy hits, from nursing sweaters (honestly, the greatest innovation) to bump essentials, like shea-butter-infused leggings and tummy sleeves (they’re like a smoothing camisole for the bump). They even offer a clothing rental program—genius. 

You better believe Amazon offers maternity clothing—and, per usual, it’s a gold mine for affordable finds. Leggings that can support a growing belly? Check. Layering tops in lots of colors? You bet. Nursing bras and nursing tops? Obviously. A cozy sweatshirt dress? Of course. Maternity fashion has never been so easy—or wallet-friendly.

No splurge needed with PinkBlush Maternity, which offers dresses, denim, swimsuits, and nursing attire, as well as styles from the brand’s private label. They also have plus-size maternity clothes and petite- and tall-friendly sections filled with great finds—many of which you can keep in rotation post-pregnancy, too. 

If you’re prioritizing environmentally-friendly fabrics more than ever, then don’t miss Isabella Oliver’s ethically-made maternity wear. The London-based brand works with fabrics like organic cotton and jersey as well as recycled wool, cashmere, and Tencel blends—prioritizing plant-friendly, vegan, and low-carbon options with every design. Plus, the label has a pre-loved section to shop for stylish, second-hand scores. 

If you’re the type to rely on a few well-made basics, Storq is the maternity brand for you. Not only are the label’s leggings, biker shorts, dresses, and tops buttery-soft (not to mention pinch-, dig-, and itch-free) but they’re also so well-designed so that every piece will last through multiple pregnancies and beyond. They’re inclusive, with styles run from sizes 0 through 3X or 26.

Obviously, the department store carries a huge selection of maternity clothes from the labels you might already know and love. You can browse Skims’ sculpting maternity briefs, Ingrid & Isabel jumpsuits, and Nom Maternity’s pretty prints and cozy leisurewear. They even have bump-friendly designs from their private label, including the comfiest PJs—which are so crucial as sleep gets scarce during pregnancy.

Unless you live the offline life, you’ve probably heard of Hill House Home’s viral Nap Dresses, founded by Nell Diamond. If you’ve got one, two—okay, five—hanging in your closet, great news: Nearly every silhouette can last throughout pregnancy in your regular size, thanks to lots of stretchy smocking, ruched waists, and tiered or empire silhouettes.

Beyond Yoga is another cult-loved label renowned for its incredibly soft space-dye leggings. (Honestly, not owning a pair is a disservice to yourself.) Good news: The brand has a delightful maternity section filled with easygoing staples, including biker shorts, tops, dresses, and, of course, bump-friendly leggings. 

Billowing dresses and blouses with a bohemian bent are California-based Doên’s bread and butter. While some styles are cut for a slimmer fit, many offer plenty of room to accommodate a growing baby bump—and they’re all made from light-as-air fabrics sourced from around the globe. Also not to miss: the most adorable kids’ clothing, including matching family sets. 

Sleeper is an influencer- and editor-fave for whimsical dresses, sleep sets, loungewear, and cozy accessories. Most can accommodate a growing baby bump, whether your vibe is all about romantic puffy sleeve dresses or oversize silk pajama sets—why not both?

Like the rest of us, you might already be a Madewell devotee for the great denim (duh), knitwear, and breezy basics. As luck would have it, the brand is ~also~ packed with maternity wear—and even carries styles from other go-to maternity brands, such as Ingrid & Isabel and Hatch. 

Gym clothes have come a long way from their humble T-shirt-meets-spandex bottoms origins—and the best workout clothes for women today have to meet a variety of fits and needs before they can claim a prime spot in our rotation. Between lounging, working out, and typing away at our WFH desks, we ask a lot from our athleisure, so it’s essential to ~invest~ in workhorse pieces that can go anywhere, do anything, and still make you feel like your best self.

Stylish options to flex your fashion sense are obviously a must, but most of us also want workout leggings and sports bras that are comfy, functional, and supportive—especially if these are pieces you’re slipping into on a bleary-eyed morning (amirite?). Tons of brands know this, and the active- and loungewear space is thriving with options right now across a range of price points and sizes.

To help you build the ultimate workout wardrobe for doing all the things, we’ve curated a list of MVP-worthy activewear brands—many of which you probably already know, love, and have shopped before. From sportswear icons like Nike to sustainable favorites like Girlfriend Collective, below you’ll find a comprehensive guide to stocking up on the best workout clothes for women in 2021. 

Lululemon doesn’t play around with its workout gear, but you already knew that. The brand’s claim to fame is its buttery-soft Align leggings, which wear like second skin and are ubiquitous at workout studios, supermarket checkout lines, and cute local brunch spots alike. (Sizes run from 0 to 20 here.) Going for a full look? Check out its vast collection of sports bras, which range from low to medium support to high-impact—and comes in styles like high-neck, longline, and racerback. (Pro tip: Keep your eyes peeled on its “We Made Too Much” section to score seasonal hues at a fraction of the original price.) 

Alo has a loyal roster of celeb fans (Kendall Jenner! Jennifer Lopez! Kaia Gerber!) and for good reason: The brand designs workout clothes that fit like a dream, whether you’re doing a vinyasa flow in your kitchen or taking your furry baby for a stroll around the block. The brand has coined a number of technical performance fabrics like “Airlift” and “Alosoft” since its early aughts debut, and you can find simple silhouettes as well as more on-trend styles in its lineup—think pleated tennis skirts, asymmetric sports bras, and sleek long-sleeve bodysuits. 

Using recycled plastic water bottles and fishing nets, Girlfriend Collective designs affordable, size-inclusive athleisure in an Instagram-friendly palette of colors like lilac, sage, and auburn. Top and bottom sizes start at XXS and go up to 6XL, with short (23.75″) and long inseams (28.5″) available for its top-rated leggings and unitards. 

Workout sneakers aside, Nike makes the gear of choice for pro athletes, and, well, just about everyone else. The heritage brand has a near-infinite range of leggings, hoodies, running shorts, and workout tanks for straight and plus sizes—and keeps things fresh with coveted designer collaborations (like its ongoing one with Japanese fashion label Sacai) that blend high-performance fabrics with fashion-forward silhouettes. 

Adidas and its iconic three stripes need no introduction. The activewear giant has been leading the charge in sustainable fabric innovation for years now, with the main mission of ending plastic waste. (It has an ongoing partnership with Parley for the Oceans to use recycled plastic debris and certified fabrics in its designs, and half of its collections are made of recycled polyester.) Adidas also has a long-standing collaboration with Stella McCartney, a pioneer in sustainable womenswear design. 

Outdoor Voices kicked the whole athleisure movement into high gear when it debuted its pastel color-block leggings in 2014, and the brand remains a go-to for exercise clothing that’s just downright fun to wear. Cute crop tops? A mainstay. Skorts? Those too. How about a dress to dance in? As if you’d dare to wear anything else.

Nordstrom carries a mix of legacy workout brands—from Sweaty Betty to Nike—that you’re probably already familiar with, but don’t sleep on its in-house label, Zella. The Nordstrom-owned brand sells everything from sweat-wicking coverups to nap-ready sweatpants, with shoppers unanimously obsessed with its high-waist “Live In” leggings. The bestseller has over 7,200 rave reviews on Nordstrom’s site (not to mention Glamour’s own stamp of approval) and comes in a full-length and cropped version. 

Beyond Yoga has some of the best fabrics in the game, with Spacedye arguably being the star of the show. This one-of-a-kind fabric is stretchy yet supportive, and deliciously cool to the touch. You can find it on everything from cropped tanks to low-impact bras and maternity yoga pants (which tons of stylish women swear by during pregnancies, FYI). 

Bandier’s in-house brand All Access has truly nailed the trifecta of durable, stylish, and versatile activewear. The buzzy label offers a tight-knit edit of leggings, bike shorts, and sports bras available in a rainbow palette of colors and lengths, from 3-inch biker shorts to capris and high-waist options with pockets. Shop items separately, or snap up one of its kits to mix and match (and save a little coin while you’re at it). 

Port de Bras is a relative newcomer in the activewear space, but one you should definitely have on your radar. The ballet-inspired brand gained momentum during the pandemic for its unique, high-fashion approach to performance-wear, with founder Clarissa Egaña prioritizing the use of traceable, eco-friendly fabrics for her pieces.

Function meets form at Tory Sport, which you can rely on for high-quality essentials that go beyond your everyday lounge and studio needs. The brand has plenty of adorable tennis sets, chic golf dresses, swimwear, and glamping gear to put a luxe spin on whatever activity you’re doing. 

Get ready to live in Set Active’s lounge and workout sets. The cool-girl brand serves up sculpting styles in snap-worthy hues like espresso and sage—and we’re big fans of its ribbed one-shoulder bras for weekend park hangs and other low-key activities.

Last but not least is the celeb-loved brand Koral, whose lustrous high-rise leggings look equally at home during a Pilates or barre class or dressed up for date night. The shiny, leather-like fabric is simultaneously compressive and moisture-wicking, making it perfect for high-intensity workouts where you want to feel snug but not constricted.  

Apparently I’ve been sleeping on Zella leggings, because all of a sudden they’re all I hear people talking about—especially one pair in particular, the brand’s Live-In High-Waist Leggings. I’m all about the leggings life, but it’s hard to find a solid (by which I also mean opaque) pair that holds up over time, whether I’m running around the park or Netflix-ing on the couch (which I’m doing more of these days). And although I’m beyond my days of $10 H&M leggings, I also don’t love spending a silly amount of money. So when I heard about Zella, I was intrigued—and now that the brand’s leggings are majorly discounted during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2021, I think I need them.

These leggings have 7,200 reviews on Nordstrom’s site—and you know how people really only review things when they either love or hate them? People love these. “Must haves!” one review raves. “The name LIVE IN makes total sense. I truly do live in these! My favorite part is the high waist because it…never falls or rolls etc. and also, the shape of the seams on the back?! Makes every bum look lifted and cute!”

“I’ve tried all (well maybe not ALL) brands of leggings—some of which specialize in athletic wear,” says another. “They were either too thin, sagged after wearing, didn’t have enough compression, drooped down, looked flimsy etc. This brand is the only one that didn’t have any of these issues.” Other reviewers swear they hold up after endless washes, rave that the seams stay intact, and love that they’re thick enough to provide coverage and to feel comfortable—as though you’re actually wearing pants—but not too warm.

Consider me persuaded to add to cart. The Zella leggings typically cost anywhere from $59 to $69, but they’re on sale for $38.90 right now during Nordstrom’s Anniversary event—which officially launched today. So whether you’re looking to round out your leggings drawer with a brand-new pair or you want to get a handful of these cult-favorite pairs to rotate throughout the week, this is the time to do it (seriously). 

They come in sizes XXS through XXL, and if you’re the type who loves a new workout outfit to remotivate (me, that’s me), shop the top-rated Zella leggings below. P.S.: We rounded up even more incredible clothing deals at Nordstrom right now. 

While Amazon has nearly everything you might want to shop, all in one place, there’s just one downside: Trying to sort through the best Amazon products can be seriously overwhelming (looking at you, Amazon Prime Day). And that’s especially true when it comes to clothes.

But the hunt can be worth the effort, as the retailer has some seriously hidden gems that pay off handsomely in terms of wear and comfort—and, not surprisingly, our Glamour readers know it. To get the best buys out there straight to your screen (and into your cart), we’ve rounded up the picks most loved by some of the most discerning people we know, i.e., you.

Most Popular Bras

Whether you’re in the market for a lacy push-up or an everyday bralette, you’re in luck: Some of the best Amazon products in the lingerie department are waiting to be scooped up. The Deyllo bra is a reader favorite, and our editors are also big fans of True & Co.’s convertible style, which can crisscross in the back if you need more support, with plenty of colors to choose from. This Natori Feathers bra is another wildly popular style that one reviewer describes as “absolutely the sexiest, most comfortable, and most flattering bra I’ve ever worn.”

Most Popular Nipple Covers

Nipple covers might not be high on your list of must-haves…until you need a pair. Summertime calls for sheer, wispy fabric and skin-baring cuts, and sometimes a bra just doesn’t cut it—something our Glamour readers know all too well. Enter these saviors.

Most Popular Underwear

Amazon is a great source for basics, and its underwear selection is no exception. You’ll find soft, breathable cotton options, as well as thongs and seamless underwear for when you’re trying to avoid a visible panty line (the worst) but still want to feel your most comfortable.

Most Popular Tees

You can never have enough basic tees: That’s a motto we live by, and Amazon has some affordable options that will fit right in with your usual rotation. Whether plain white, boatneck, V-neck, flowy, or fitted, you can find exactly what you’re looking for.

Most Popular Leggings

Last year involved a lot of athleisure—no gym needed, thanks—and while these days we’re all about dressing up and going out, a new pair of leggings is always welcome in our house. Upgrade your collection of do-it-all leggings with some new options for running errands, meeting a friend at a barre class, chilling on your couch, or all of the above.

Most Popular Dresses

Surprise! Amazon has a lot of cute dresses. You have to sift through to find the gems, but, as our readers have discovered, they definitely exist. Maybe you want a formfitting number that’s perfect for summer nights out, or a sweet floral minidress that’s just as good for a casual dinner worn with sneakers as it is paired with comfy heels for a wedding. Either way, you’ve got options.

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

There’s a time and place for the Lululemons and Alos of the world, but when it comes to your everyday sweat sessions, it’s hard to argue with cheap workout clothes. When you’re squatting or running up a storm — then immediately throwing your leggings in the laundry on the turbo cycle — you can’t be too precious about your activewear. 

By this point, you may have become an at-home fitness devotee, or you may be itching to get back into the studio for an in-person class (or maybe you just like the look and feel of athleisure — if so, we salute you!). And while we can’t ignore our love for higher-end fitness staples, sometimes the cost is a little more than we’re willing to pay, and there are plenty of affordable activewear brands that don’t skimp on quality.  

Finding the right sports bras, leggings, shorts, and other workout essentials isn’t just about maintaining a budget. After all, you have to factor in comfort and style, among other personal preferences. To save you the mental gymnastics of pinpointing where to spend your coin, we found 15 brands that check all the boxes. Scroll down to shop the best workout clothes online right now. 

Old Navy

In a move that would surprise no one, Old Navy comes through as our top pick for affordable activewear (of course, it delivers for every other wardrobe staple you may need). The brand is chock-full of solid-colored basics like the turmeric leggings below, as well as seasonal, colorful pieces like breathable tanks that’ll take you straight from the gym to your post-workout brunch. 

Target

If you’ve ever perused Target’s massive clothing section, odds are you’ve seen its selection of stylish workout clothes. Within it, you’ll find everything from minimalist-approved sports bras and athletic shorts to bright, coordinated sets that look way more expensive than they actually are. 

Dick’s Sporting Goods

Come for the fitness equipment, stay for the clothes. Dick’s Sporting Goods has everything you can imagine when it comes to owning your workouts. You’ll find trusted brands like Under Armour, Nike, and Adidas; but the hidden gem may just be DSG, the retailer’s high-performance in-house clothing line, which will get you through the most intense set of reps.

Amazon

If TikTok has taught us anything, it’s that Amazon has some of the savviest buys you can find on the market, and its virtually endless workout clothing selection is no exception. From no-brainer leggings shoppers can’t stop raving about to affordable pieces reviewers say rival those of more expensive brands, there’s no doubt Amazon should be on your radar for affordable activewear.

Everlane

No place seems to master timeless basics quite like Everlane, and every time the brand puts its no-frills spin on a wardrobe staple, it’s good. Case in point: it’s activewear. The Everlane-obsessed can’t seem to get enough of its Perform Leggings, and neither will you.

Zara

Leave it to Zara to create affordable activewear pieces that feel undeniably chic. The Spanish retailer’s collection of workout gear has some of the most comfortable separates to take your gym ensembles to the next level—and they come in a handful of candy-colored hues just in time for all those outdoor workouts. Only downside? The clothing is so cute, it rarely stays in stock for long. 

Madewell

Madewell knew exactly what it was doing when it first launched athleisure — and even more so when it expanded its workout-ready collection to leggings. The fashion and lifestyle brand has become a favorite among longtime fans and newbies alike for the easy, everyday pieces you can truly live in. And since Madewell is constantly having a sale, there’s no doubt you’ll be able to find its popular MWL pieces for a fraction of the OG price.

Asos

Savvy shoppers will know Asos as one of the must-stop shops for anything cheap and trendy. The brand carries the latest Tik Tok and Instagram-approved styles to add to your closet (like flared yoga pants and statement-making cut-out bras). On top of that, Asos sells countless matching sets from its in-house brands and classics (think Adidas and Champion) alike. 

Zappos

You might know Zappos for its vast array of shoes, but judging by its truckload of household names like Champion, Puma, Free People, and more, its activewear section is just as good. And since the brand is constantly marking down its stock, finding your favorite brands on a budget is simply a waiting game. 

Torrid

Whether you prefer solid hues for your vinyasa flow or you like to go all-out with bold prints for an intense HIIT class, Torrid’s sure to have the pieces for any type of workout. Gear up on coordinated sets or mix and match. There’s no going wrong here.

PrettyLittleThing

Those of you looking for cheap workout clothes with a streetwear edge will love shopping at PrettyLittleThing. The brand has so many activewear pieces that’ll look as cool during your sweat sessions as they will after. Plus, PLT’s wide variety of styles are designed with whatever trend is currently popping off on Instagram in mind — which means a selfie isn’t far off.

Aerie

You already know Aerie for its ultra-comfortable intimates and loungewear, but the brand’s “Offline” selection offers a versatile mix of under-$50 leggings, bike shorts, and sports bras you’ll want to live in day-in and day-out.

Danskin

Danskin’s long been known for touting some of the best pieces for anyone taking up dance classes. And while leotards and unitards have made an unexpected (but very welcome) comeback, those aren’t the only things the brand specializes in. Danskin also makes budget-friendly activewear designed to work with every move you make.

H&M

Those who consider themselves minimalists to the core will love stocking up on cheap workout clothes from H&M. The brand has everything from seamless tops and bottoms to outerwear and maternity-specific staples in a range of muted hues. If you want to add a polished air to your workouts, be sure to peruse the virtual aisles. 

Adidas

Adidas remains one of the most popular activewear brands on the planet, and for good reason. The label makes high-performing workout gear for, well, anything. From everyday training essentials to activity-specific items, you can shop for days. And, of course, it doesn’t hurt that its pieces double as streetwear staples, too.

With the lines blurred between “real” outfits and exercise attire, this past year showed many of us that cute workout clothes are worth so much more than just a quick sweat session. We’ve come to rely on activewear for doing things beyond our usual exercise routines: lounging, going on coffee dates, hanging out in the park, and sometimes even working are perfectly suited for an exclusively-athleisure OOTD. 

All this extra functionality means we’ve come to ask a lot from our leggings and sports bras, so it’s important to have a rotation of staples you feel good in. The active- and loungewear space is saturated with options right now—and while you obviously want your ‘fit to be cute and stylish, you also want it to be practical and supportive. After all, no one wants to spend their hard-earned coin on gear that’s too sheer or flimsy; or that’ll pill, rip, or lose its shape after a single wash. That’s why we did the legwork for you to bring you the tried-and-true brands you should have on your radar for quality athleisure.   

From Alo’s celeb-loved leggings to Girlfriend Collective’s sustainably-minded unitards and Target’s budget-friendly pieces, consider this the ultimate guide to finding cute workout clothes across a range of price points and sizes. Ahead, 17 options to bookmark now.

Nordstrom

What does Nordstrom not carry these days? In all seriousness, its activewear curation is top-notch. The retailer carries everything from Nike to Girlfriend Collective to Alo—and its in-house label Zella makes some of the internet’s most beloved leggings. If you want to checkout with a big cart of quality goods, this is the place to do it.

Lululemon

Lululemon leggings may cost a pretty penny, but they’re well worth the hype—and so is the rest of its activewear if you want to venture further into the Lulusphere. From sports bras to hoodies to roomy duffles, the Canadian brand has something for every workout need (commuting, warm-ups, and recovery included). ICYMI, Lululemon also has a permanent sale section (dubbed “We Made Too Much”) that gets restocked on a regular basis, and we highly recommend keeping tabs on it if you want to score a pair of Align leggings or a new running jacket for way, way less.  

Everlane

Basics brand Everlane entered the activewear space last year with its no-frills Perform legging. Following its immediate success, the company expanded its athleisure collection to include comfy tanks, sports bras, and french terry sweatpants. While the colors are limited to neutrals (plus a select few seasonal tones like teal and moss), the beauty of these classic hues is that they work seamlessly with items already in your closet.

Alo

Alo is one of the first labels to introduce us to the concept of “athleisure,” and to this day, the celeb-loved brand delivers elevated essentials that can take you from a 60-minute Vinyasa flow in your living room to a low-key brunch with friends. The brand has a loyal fan base (including everyone from Insta-famous yogis to Kendall Jenner, J.Lo, and Hailee Steinfeld) and drops seasonal colors on a monthly basis—bubblegum pink and apricot are available for spring—so you can find pieces to keep your activewear rotation fresh year-round. Heads up: Alo’s leggings tend to run long, so petites may want to opt for one of the cropped styles unless they want scrunched-up bottoms. 

Outdoor Voices

Whether you’re getting fresh air on a solo hike or tuning into a pilates class from your living room, Outdoor Voices makes versatile athleisure (sports bras, exercise dresses, hiking shorts, and of course, leggings) from sustainable materials like recycled wool, ethically sourced merino wool, and recycled PET. It’s known for cute color combinations and chic color blocking you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. 

Net-a-Porter

Net-a-Porter’s activewear section is filled with designer pieces you’re bound to find in celebs’ wardrobes. Think Koral and P.E Nation leggings, camis from Splits59, and so much more. Pro tip: Filter by activity to find clothes for doing yoga, running, lounging, swimming, and skiing. 

Bandier

From Nike to APL to Adidas x Stella McCartney, New York City-based Bandier carries an impressive range of activewear brands that you’re probably already eyeing up on Instagram. In addition to that, the athleisure boutique also sells activewear under three in-house labels—Le Ore, WSLY, and All Access. (Psst…we’re big fans of Bandier’s matching kits for scoring a full look for less.)

Madewell

The beloved denim brand surprised us last year when it brought activewear into its rotation. The collection in question goes by the name MWL—short for “Make Weekends Longer”—and includes buttery soft leggings, sweatshirts, and more. To be fair, these pieces may not be the most high-performing, moisture-wicking designs, but they’re perfect for sunny bike rides and long walks before and after work. 

Target

Target is a great place to stock up on essentials for lounging and moderate workouts. From colorful sports bras to printed bike shorts, the retailer delivers quality options that you don’t have to think twice about adding to cart.

Shopbop

In response to the massive demand for stylish workout gear, multibrand e-tailer Shopbop created an entire section dedicated to athleisure last year. If you have yet to check it out, it’s full of popular names in the active- and loungewear space, including Beach Riot, Live the Process, and Tory Sport.  

Girlfriend Collective

Using recycled plastic bottles, fishing nets, and other waste, Girlfriend Collective designs affordable, size-inclusive athleisure in an Instagram-friendly palette of neutrals like peach, cream, and sage. Its high-rise leggings and halter sports bras are bestsellers, but if you happen to already own one of those items, consider picking up one of its newer silhouettes for spring. (We’re seriously eyeing the bike-short unitard right now.)

Nike

Nike has long been a mainstay for activewear that’s fashionable, functional, size-inclusive—and cutting edge in terms of fit and fabric technology. Peep some of our must-haves from the legacy brand below, starting with those split-hem leggings that have a mini kick flare.

Adidas

Adidas is another perennial favorite in the athleisure and street style aisle. Whether you’re in the market for a new sports bra, a pair of running shoes, or a fresh sweatsuit, you’re guaranteed to find styles that read laid-back cool (but are ready for a HIIT workout at any moment). The brand is also an advocate of sustainability practices and partnered with Parley in 2015 to help spearhead its eco-friendly initiatives. (Adidas plans to use 100% recycled polyester in its products by 2024, according to its website.)

Old Navy

With its accessible price point and inclusive sizing, Old Navy sells sports clothing you don’t have to be precious about wearing 24/7. Start building your cart with this limoncello tank top and camo-print legging—it’s the perfect outfit for a morning coffee date followed by a sweat sesh in the afternoon. 

Amazon

Digging through the ‘Zon for chic activewear can feel like an installment in Mission Impossible, but if you know where to look (and we do!), you can definitely find some hidden gems. Case in point: This top-rated tank from Beyond Yoga that may just be comfier than your go-to wireless bra, and some very pretty scalloped leggings giving Lululemon’s Wunder Unders a run for its money.

Carbon38

Carbo38 is another multi-brand retailer you need on your radar. The online boutique bills itself as a place for “active fashion,” so you can expect to find pieces that combine the functionality of high-performance fabrics with on-trend designs and cuts. Brand selection-wise, Carbon38 carries a mix of fashion, wellness, and athleisure labels, including Bala (its weighted bangles are a Glamour-editor fave), Nike, Isabel Marant, Cotton Citizen, and Superga—which FYI, is the same sneaker brand Kate Middleton loves. Make sure to also check out Carbon38’s own in-house line of activewear.

Free People

Free People is a top choice for spring dresses and comfy WFH attire, so it only makes sense that we look to the boho paradise for similar feel-good gym gear. Unsurprisingly, the brand boasts a stacked section of mood-boosting options in pretty tie-dyes and poppy fluorescent colors that are just *begging* to be snapped up.

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.