Recommendation Women's Fashion · Men's Fashion

The Best "IT" Athletic Clothing Brands for Fitness and Style

For Whom/What:

everyday wear from gym to running errands

Budget:

$200-ish

Requirements:

trendy

wash well

Extra Details:

What are the "IT" athletic brands to wear right now? What was your experience with these brands? Are the quality and design there? I'm not a huge leggings person (only wear them when I work out), so I'd appreciate recommendations on more casual, everyday pieces.

bearmama
16 hours ago

Athleta is hands-down my favorite "IT" athletic clothing brand because it nails that perfect combo of style, comfort, and function. Their pieces are super versatile—you can crush a workout, run errands, or even chill at brunch without feeling out of place. Plus, their fabrics are chef’s kiss—soft, stretchy, and sweat-wicking, so you stay comfy all day.

What I really love is how inclusive they are. They’ve got a wide range of sizes, and everything is designed to actually fit and flatter real bodies, which feels rare in activewear. And let’s not forget those pockets—Athleta just gets us.

Oh, and they’re big on sustainability too, so you’re not just looking good, you’re doing good. Whether it’s their leggings, sports bras, or cozy athleisure pieces, Athleta is like that one friend who’s effortlessly cool and reliable.

Easy Fleece 1/2 Zip Hoodie
Brand: Athleta
Easy Fleece Crew Sweatshirt
Brand: Athleta
hollywoodvibe
3 weeks ago

Alo has been a favorite lately because of its unique blend of style, comfort, and functionality that really sets it apart from other activewear brands. Their pieces aren’t just for working out—they’re designed to seamlessly transition from the gym to everyday wear, so you get both performance and a stylish, elevated look. The quality is top-notch, with buttery-soft fabrics that feel incredible on, and they hold up well even with frequent wear. 

Alo’s designs are on-trend but timeless, so they feel fresh without being overly seasonal. It’s easy to see why it’s become a go-to for both fitness and casual style.

Denim Knit Shawl
Brand: Alo
Make Waves Sweatpant
Brand: Alo
Helen Reid
2 months ago

Varley has emerged as an "IT" athleisure brand due to its seamless blend of high-performance functionality and chic, contemporary design, making it a favorite among fashion-forward fitness enthusiasts. 

Known for its luxurious fabrics (DoubleSoft is to die for!) and attention to detail, Varley offers versatile pieces that transition effortlessly from the gym to everyday life, embodying the perfect balance between comfort and style. 

The brand’s collections feature muted, sophisticated color palettes and sleek silhouettes that appeal to those who want to look polished while staying active. Varley’s commitment to innovation is evident in its use of advanced materials that provide optimal stretch, support, and breathability, ensuring that each piece not only looks good but also performs exceptionally well during workouts. 

Additionally, Varley has cultivated a strong presence in the fashion world, often seen on influencers and celebrities, which has further cemented its status as a must-have label in the athleisure market. By combining fashion-forward aesthetics with technical expertise, Varley has become the go-to brand for those who refuse to compromise on style or performance in their activewear.

Varley has several popular pieces that have become staples in the athleisure wardrobes of many.

Hawley Half Zip Sweat
Brand: Varley
Alder High-Rise Short 5.5"
Brand: Varley
The Slim Zip Hem Pant 29.5"
Brand: Varley
lorigranito
1 month ago

Obsessed with Vuori lately. 

And I see so many people wearing it - at malls, cafes, grocery stores, etc. I like how their designs are kinda down to earth. You'll find their designs lean toward clean aesthetics combined with functional features. 

My top 3 items from Vuori: 

1. Performance Joggers: These remain a fan favorite for their ultra-soft fabric and versatile style, perfect for lounging or light workouts. 

2. Pose Fitted Tee: It's incredibly soft and makes me look fit, haha. 

3. Halo Performance Hoodie: It's great for layering and can be worn from workouts to weekend outings.

Pose Fitted Tee
Brand: Vuori
Performance Jogger
Brand: Vuori
Halo Performance Hoodie 2.0
Brand: Vuori