Make Sweat The Fashion With These Chic Workout Outfits

When your gym outfit is so fierce, even the treadmills are trying to keep up with you.
Image credit: @carolinafreixa

Wearing the wrong gym outfit is one of the biggest mistakes, especially during summer. Selecting an outfit blindly and prioritizing fashion over function can lead to a range of problems. For example, wearing non-breathable or heavy fabrics will trap heat and cause excessive sweating.

Whether you are working out for long hours to achieve your fitness or professional goals, it’s not only hard to carve out time and energy for your workout but also to get the right outfit. Have you ever shown up to the gym wearing an outfit that’s either too tight to move in or too loose to get a grip on?

Outfits with improper fitting can cause chaffing and irritation. While fabrics that cannot wick moisture effectively will make you feel damp, increasing the risk of infections and irritation. All these factors not only disrupt your workout regime but also hinder your progress. Thats why, it’s better to choose the right gym wear that not only makes you look chic but also feel better, more confident, and enjoy your workouts fully.

Since the summer requires you to go for gym wear that is breathable and wicks moisture, an outfit made of polyester, spandex, or nylon is the best. Avoid cotton as it may seem light, but when you sweat a lot, it will stick to your body giving you an uncomfortable feel. Your outfit should also be lightweight and stretchy to allow you to move freely.

Just like crop tops that are trendy and functional and when paired with leggings or shorts, provide more freedom of movement. If you want to stay comfortable during an intense workout while avoiding those stares due to your see-through shirt, try a t-shirt with mesh paneling. It will lower your body temperature and is durable enough to get along with a high-intensity sweaty workout.

For those suffering from chaffing issues, running shorts made up of lightweight and stretchy materials are your thing. These are comfortable, and fashionable, and the waistband string does not dig into your skin, hence improving blood circulation while avoiding chafing.

Leggings and capris are also another great option. These are made of compression fabric to improve blood flow, reducing muscle fatigue, and are best for running, yoga, pilates, and other gym OR outdoor activities such as playing tennis or golf.

Remember that the right summer gym or running wear elevates your performance, comfort, and confidence. So whether you are a beginner or pro, a seasoned athlete, or an amateur fitness freak, check out these must-try 28 chic workout outfits that are the right summer wear to hit the gym.

Summer Chic Workout Or Running Errand Outfits

Outfit #1

Light gray seamless set + Light gray zip-up hoodie + Tan slip-on shoes + White headphones

If you’re like me, gym outfits usually consist of a matching set. I am a fan of these when I’m gearing up for a summer workout. Athleisure sets have been the lazy girl’s saving grace for gym outfits since their conception, and I believe the best place to wear them besides the gym is while running errands.

Outfit #2

White crop top + Beige seamless set + White jacket tied around the waist + White socks + White and silver sneakers

I’m a big supporter of layering for a workout day. It makes getting out the door that much faster, especially when you’re ready to hit the gym or go for a run. Most times when I head out without a jacket, I find myself wishing I had brought one to tie around my waist just in case. The seamless sets are a great choice for keeping everything in place during a workout, and they also look good when paired with your favorite sneakers.

Outfit #3

Dark navy workout co-ord + White sweatshirt tied around the shoulders + White sneakers

Look, sometimes you just need a reliable outfit that can handle your gym session and a casual day around town. Above outfit is perfect for this. The white sweatshirt tied around the shoulders adds a bit of layering in case it gets chilly, and the white sneakers keep it all looking fresh.

Outfit #4

Beige long-sleeve crop top + Light beige high-waisted shorts

Filing this under “outfits to wear when heading out for a quick workout or a run.” This outfit is a go-to for summer fitness. A beige long-sleeve crop top paired with light beige high-waisted shorts makes for a comfortable and coordinated look. I picture myself wearing this for a morning jog or a gym session. The light, breathable fabric keeps you cool, and the high-waisted shorts offer great support.

Outfit #5

White sleeveless top + White flared pants + White sneakers + Light pink patterned tote bag + White headband + White oversized water bottle

The matching headband and tote bag make even the simplest workout outfit look more coordinated and put-together. Pick the most comfortable flared pants you have in your collection to maximize ease of movement. The real stars of the show here are the sneakers. You’re going to want to pick a comfortable pair that complements your headband and tote bag. 

Outfit #6

Red sports bra + Dark Orange high-waisted leggings

I’m saving this outfit for a quick workout or run when I’m planning to meet someone shortly after. It’s the perfect blend of athletic and casual. The bright red sports bra adds the right amount of energy to your workout look. The dark orange high-waisted leggings complement the top perfectly, making this outfit too good to pass up. You can also add varsity jacket to level up the game

Outfit #7

Light gray sports bra + Gray zip-up hoodie + Dark navy high-waisted leggings + White sneakers + White socks + White headphones

Though this hoodie is a staple, the sports bra underneath is really what impressed me with its quality. It feels like you’re wearing nothing at all while providing excellent support. I’m already planning to get more in different colors. And then there are these leggings. I love how they fit snugly at the waist but are flexible and comfortable throughout the hips and legs, making them perfect for any workout or casual day out. 

Outfit #8

Black sports bra with cutout + Olive green high-waisted leggings + White jacket tied around the shoulders + Black sneakers

You’ll find us relying on versatile outfits as soon as the weather warms up. This combination looks great with all kinds of activewear, but I love how it’s modernized with an olive green pair of high-waisted leggings.

Outfit #9

Light green two-piece set + Light gray cropped hoodie + White socks + White sneakers

On lazy days, you can’t beat a comfortable set of shorts. Tap into this trend with a fresh light green pair, and make it feel cozier with an oversized hoodie and your favorite sneakers.

Outfit #10

Gray crop top + White cargo pants + White sneakers + Small silver shoulder bag

When in doubt, toss on a crop top. Gray complements all shades of white—the two work in tandem to create a fresh summer look. Opt for cargo pants to keep it casual and functional, perfect for your gym session or running errands afterward.

Outfit #11

Black co-ord + Plaid blazer + White sneakers with maroon swoosh + White socks + Small white handbag

One of my personal favorites, this outfit works great when the blazer adds a pop of pattern to your gym look. Ideal for a summer workout.

Outfit #12

Black unitard + Black cap + Beige tote bag

If comfort is your primary concern, then you’ll be hard pressed to find a workout style more up to the challenge than unitards. A sleek black one feels slightly more polished than other styles. Try pairing yours with a matching sunshades and a cap for a put-together finish just like above fit.

Outfit #13

Beige co-ord + White cardigan + White sneakers + Beige crossbody bag

The beige-on-beige combo is a modern take on a monochrome look. It might seem understated, but the matching tones create a sleek and coordinated outfit. The white cardigan adds a fresh layer, making it perfect for a summer workout.

Outfit #14

White sports bra + White zip-up jacket + White high-waisted shorts + White sneakers

It might be an integral part of the fitness aesthetic, but all-white activewear has been a staple in athletic fashion for decades. Clean and versatile, it has been worn in many ways over the years, but nothing feels quite so classic as a coordinated white set for the gym or a run in the summer.

Outfit #15

Olive green co-ord + Black leather jacket + White sneakers + Black headphones

If you’re still on the fence when it comes to combining athleisure with edgy outerwear, perhaps this olive and black combo will convince you. Keep your jacket sleek and your accessories minimal.

Outfit #16

Black long sleeve crop top + Taupe high-waisted shorts

Packing a matching set is a smart way to optimize your workout wardrobe. Black and taupe go with everything, and a crop-top-and-shorts combo can be easily mixed and matched with other pieces.

Outfit #17

Black crop top + Black high-waisted leggings + Beige oversized blazer + Beige baseball cap + White sneakers + Black crossbody bag

On days when it’s too hot for heavy gym wear, take cues from this ensemble by wearing breezy, high-waisted leggings. A beige baseball cap and fuss-free accessories are all you need to complete the look.

Outfit #18

White crop top + Beige zip-up hoodie + Beige high-waisted leggings

Call it classic, or call it the ultimate activewear look, but ever since replacing my basic gym outfits with coordinated crop tops and hoodies, I’ve felt much more put-together. For nearly every workout session or casual outing, this timeless combo never goes wrong. For the gym-goer, a lightweight hoodie is always key for warming up or cooling down.

Outfit #19

White top + Black high-waisted leggings + White sneakers + Transparent tote bag

As much as I admire retro gym styles, there’s no way I can constantly wear heavy, restrictive outfits during workouts. If you feel like updating your athletic look like how fitness enthusiasts did back in the day, look no further than a well-coordinated crop top and leggings set.

Outfit #20

Black graphic t-shirt + Black biker shorts + Orange and white sneakers + White socks + Black crossbody bag

There’s nothing quite like discovering a scenic running trail while on vacation. If you’re anything like me and live in comfortable clothes 24/7, the opportunity to head out for a run in a new city calls for the best activewear. No matter the location, weather, or current trend cycle, a graphic tee and biker shorts never go out of style.

Outfit #21

Dark green compression co-ord

In 2024, staying motivated for workouts is my personal public enemy number one. While tackling different fitness goals and still remaining comfortable, I’ve turned to fully embracing the coordinated set vibe: sports bra and high-waisted leggings just like above. 

Outfit #22

Teal seamless co-ord + White socks + White sneakers

Fun teal workout sets are so on-trend for summer 2024, and we love how they pair with crisp white sneakers.

Outfit #23

Olive green workout set + White sneakers

Olive green has been having a serious moment as of late. 

Outfit #24

Black bodysuit + Black high-waisted joggers + Black backpack

Nathalie’s outfit is the perfect after-hours ensemble. Paired with a sleek black backpack, a lightweight tank top, and comfy joggers, the all-black look pops under the evening light.

Outfit #25

Blue activewear set + Navy blue zip-up jacket

The most subdued color coordination you’ll ever meet, blue on blue is effortlessly stylish. Plus, these cool tones are the perfect antidote to the summer heat. Complete this fresh look with a navy blue jacket for an extra layer during your workouts.

Outfit #26

White zip-up crop top + Light green high-waisted shorts + White headphones

All hail the headphones and their many uses: As a workout essential, a motivation booster, and, traditionally speaking, a fitness staple. In this case though, they complete the look, perfect for summer workouts. Worn with high-waisted shorts, it’s a match to behold for summer.

Outfit #27

White sports bra + Maroon zip-up jacket + Light gray high-waisted sweatpants

The soft fabric of the zip-up jacket offsets the structure of the high-waisted sweatpants in this look, and we’re happy to spotlight any outfit that celebrates comfort and functionality right now.

Outfit #28

Light blue unitard + Black sneakers + Light blue socks + Beige headphones

You just can’t go wrong with a light blue unitard and sneakers. Make like the pros and opt for coordinated socks and headphones to give the look a slightly sportier feel.

Tessie McKnight is a Deputy Commerce Editor at YouDoYourWay who is always on the hunt for the latest trending outfits and covers them once curated. Tessie enjoys using platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Reddit to trend-spot and write about viral outfits that she fine mesmerizing. Prior to joining YDYW, Tessie worked as a Content Marketer at fashion media company based in Pittston. As of now, she writes for YouDoYourWay Media Publication, and has been specializing in fashion and beauty shopping content for the last two years. Outside of work, you can usually find her running to a Pilates class or sipping on a Starbuck’s Iced Caramel Macchiato in the park.

To keep things crystal clear, whilst we may receive a commission or sometimes other compensation from the links on YouDoYourWay, we never allow this to influence our opinion – read our about page

Share This Experience With Others

Facebook
Pinterest
Reddit
Email

Please note that we aim to credit the right sources for every image we use. If you think we’ve credited the wrong source, please let us know at copyright@youdoyourway.com.