window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-GEQWY429QJ');

 

Entity shares athletic wear you can rock when you're not exercising.

Real talk: If you opened your closet right now, how many pairs of leggings, sports bras and running shoes that you barely wear would stare back? We’re all guilty of this; we buy a cute pair of leggings to wear to the gym, but end up using them as pajamas or loungewear for when we watch Netflix. And you don’t want to wear your workout clothes in public because when people start asking you which gym you go to, it’s going to get awkward.

But it’s time to say, “Bye Felicia” to the haters and wear your cute workout gear even when you aren’t exercising. Still not sure how to “work” your workout clothes in everyday life? Here are ENTITY’s top tips for rockin’ five of your most common – and favorite – pieces of athletic wear!

1 Look glam in leggings.

Have you ever done the “jean dance” – that dance every girl does (involving hopping, sucking everything in and maybe even asking a friend for help) to get into her skinny jeans? If so, it’s time to say hello to your new best friends: leggings.

While you might not want to wear leggings when attending an elegant dinner party or an important work meeting, leggings can be the perfect lazy day outfit for doing errands or running around town.

READ MORE: 5 Cheaper Alternatives to Lululemon Workout Gear 

An important tip: Material definitely matters. For instance, make sure that your leggings aren’t see through (including when you bend over). If you want a different look, you can even shop for styles with higher-end accents (like leather pockets or embroidered designs) that add a layer of elegance to your regular leggings.

2 Gym shorts aren’t just for gym class anymore.

The phrase “gym shorts” may trigger flashbacks to your traumatizing elementary school PE uniform. However, with a little bit of work, gym shorts can actually fit right in with a sporty vibe. Vogue suggests adding accessories that go with your athletic wear but upgrade the look – such as adding sunglasses or a flannel shirt tied around your waist.

READ MORE: Are Fabletics Actually Good Workout Clothes?

One of the easiest looks you could create is an outfit with a beach and boardwalk vibe. Just throw throw on an oversized tee, bright sunglasses and your favorite gym shorts. Think about it: After taking a dive in the ocean, do you really want to wrestle on those denim shorts and crop top after, or do you want to slip into a comfy outfit?

3 Show off a trendy sports bra.

You can’t possibly wear a sports bra as part of a casual outfit. Right? Wrong! There are actually a variety of different ways to show off your cute sports bras, such as:

  • Wearing an off-the-shoulder top to emphasize a sports bra with a delicate or interesting strap design.
  • Pairing a neon sports bra with a neutral colored, open back shirt.
  • Using your sports bra as a crop top alternative, paired with a high-waisted skirt or pants.

Who says you can’t be sporty (not to mention comfortable) and fashionable at the same time?

4 Say “Yes” to yoga pants.

If you barely take off your yoga pants during the weekend, but you’ve never dared to wear them in public, this is the tip you’ve been waiting for. As with leggings, time and place definitely matters. No matter how relaxed your office environment, wearing yoga pants probably won’t get you the promotion you want.

However, for more casual outings, Fashion Spot suggests pairing your yoga pants with plenty of layers, like a glam leather jacket or elegant dark trench. Adding a sophisticated coat can take your yoga pants from Downward Dog to Downtown in a snap. The holidays are also the perfect time to combine your thin yoga pants with an oversized sweater and knee-high boots. And, of course, you can’t go wrong with accessorizing!

5 Keep others on their toes by rockin’ sneakers!

Whether you forgot your heels at home or just want to be comfortable while out on the town, there are plenty of fashionable ways to sneak sneakers into your wardrobe. For instance, if you want to add a little extra “oomph” to your typical jeans and sneakers, wear a tailored blazer on top. Sneakers can also add  a quirky spin on the classic outfit of a button-down and pants and you can show off your sophisticated side by wearing a pencil skirt and structured top.

READ MORE: These 10 Sneakers Need to Be in Your Closet by 2017

As Vogue explains, two keys to turning any piece of athletic wear from fit to fashionable is keeping up with seasonal trends and, when in doubt, sticking to neutrals.

Whether you’re a sportswear addict or a business woman who nearly lives in suits, experimenting with activewear can help you turn comfortable clothes into couture. And if someone still doesn’t like you wearing your sports bra outside of the gym, no matter how glam your outfit? Just feel bad that they’ll probably never know discover how fashionable athletic wear can really be.

Edited by Casey Cromwell
Send this to a friend