Activewear these days is about far more than practicality. Don't get me wrong - the most important factor to consider when investing in workout gear is functionality, but there's a growing trend of activewear brands putting style at the forefront too. If you like the sound of exercise clothes that will make your sweat session a breeze but also want trendy pieces that you'll feel good in, you need to have these cool girl activewear brands on your radar.
Whether you're searching for what to wear to Reformer Pilates or want some more stylish workout pieces to pair with your best yoga flares, certain sports brands just ooze cool. Think sleek matching sets, eye-catching one pieces, street style-esque layering pieces and playful skorts that are perfect for summer workouts.
From the best gym leggings and petite gym leggings to matching loungewear sets and cosy outerwear layers, these brands have it all - and at great price points too. Keep scrolling to shop our edit of the top pieces worth investing in that can be trusted to perform in terms of both functionality and fashion.
Cool girl activewear brands: Quick shopping links
- Chelsea Peers: Sustainable gym, swim and loungewear
- Monday Body: Standout silhouettes
- Lovall: Chic, everyday regular and maternity pieces
- Girlfriend Collective: Big variety of size inclusive workout gear
- Oner Active: Huge collection of loungewear, gym wear and Pilates pieces
- TALA: Sustainability-focused activewear brand
10 best cool girl activewear brands that MC UK Editors love
1. Chelsea Peers
What you wear to and from a workout is just as crucial as what you wear for it - especially if you want to keep those muscles warm. Chelsea Peers makes some seriously chic sweat sets that are made sustainably and come at a great price point compared to other brands on the market.
2. Lovall
Finding the perfect sports bra takes some serious trial and error, but I think this one might tick every box for low impact workouts. It's lightweight, moisture-wicking, adjustable, and with four-way stretch. I love the minimalist colourway that has a cooler feel than black, and the longer cut means it can be worn with high waisted leggings without the need for a top.
3. Girlfriend Collective
It's harder than you would think to find a skort that's comfortable enough to do a variety of workouts in, but I think this one has managed it. The slightly longer cut means you don't have to worry about it riding up too much, and it features hidden pockets to hold the essentials. Ideal for jogging, walking, or even Pilates, it is a brilliant stylish investment.
4. Oner Active
Exercise onesies are my guilty pleasure. I think they look so chic and make me feel much more put together than when I wear leggings. I love this scoop back style and the different leg lengths on offer, and the built-in bra ensures lasting comfort and support.
5. TALA
The balletcore hype isn't over yet. If you want to master the Pilates Princess look, a wrap cardigan like this is essential - and it is the ideal layering piece for wearing between classes. The lightweight fabric makes it suitable for low impact workouts like yoga and Pilates, but be aware that it isn't sweat-wicking; this is a predominantly fashion-driven pick.
6. Arne
Flared leggings just scream cool, and they're just as practical as tight-fitting cuts. With a double layer waistband to help you feel supported and the same soft stretch fabrication as the brand's other activewear products and regular and petite leg lengths, you're guaranteed a perfect fit.
7. Monday Body
Monday Body takes classic activewear items and reimagines the silhouettes with a modern edge, without losing the practicality elements. This bra offers an adjustable fit and endless style points - perfect for lower impact workouts when you want to make a statement.
8. Free People
Our Senior Health and Sustainability Editor, Ally Head, swears by this Free People cami. It's seen her through half marathons and everyday workouts in style, and it offers plenty of breathability to keep you cool, even when exercising in the sun. Cutting just above the waist, it's the ideal length for pairing with high-waisted bottoms - and who doesn't love a playful and colourful pattern to perk them up for a sweat session?
9. GapFit
Did you know that Gap makes seriously chic yet affordable workout gear? These neon pink shorts are right on trend, and they're made with soft, breathable, stretchy sweat-wicking fabric as well as 86% recycled polyester. They also have pockets for handy storage and an elasticated waistband for the perfect fit.
10. Adanola
You don't need me to tell you that Adanola is one of the ultimate cool girl activewear brands. It's been leading the athleisure charge for years now, and is a celebrity and it-girl favourite. This unitard is my personal favourite, but every piece we've tested stands up in terms of quality, practicality, and style.
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