Well, January is here in all it's grey glory, bringing it with a fresh determination to do (some) things differently in 2025. As I'm sure is the case with many of you, I have once again included "working out more" in my list of resolutions, but I've been down this road before. While I'm fuelled by the new year energy and enthusiasm through the first few weeks of the month, by February I've inevitably slipped back into old routines and find my gym attendance has reduced back down to virtually zero. I know I'm not alone—running app Strava has gone so far as to pinpoint January 18th as the date that most of us quit our New Year's fitness resolutions. So how can I ensure things go better this time? Well, I think the answer lies in finding chic workout outfits that make me actually excited to book a class and go to it, before heading for my post-workout coffee after.
Ok, I know that might sound silly, but I genuinely do believe that feeling good in a workout outfit will encourage me to hold that plank for a little longer. Just think about how much your mood is boosted when you know you've wearing a particularly stylish look? Feeling great about your workout set and powering through an effective workout means a double hit of endorphins and dopamine—win-win.
Plus, these days activewear has become seriously chic. Just look at the collaborations between designers and sportswear labels, such as Wales Bonner and Stella McCartney with Addias, Reformation with Veja and Loewe with pioneering footwear brand, +On. This means the options are varied and stylish, combining performance design with sleek aesthetics.
Looking to join me on this fitness fashion journey? Scroll on to see my pick of five outfits I plan on recreating this month, and some extra selects of standout workout pieces.
What to Wear to the Gym: 5 Chic and Easy Looks:
1. An All Black Set
Style Notes: Sometimes, simple really is best. For me, the highlight of gym-wear is the sleek silhouette it provides, and there's no better way to embrace that than by opting for a minimalist black t-shirt and legging combination.
Shop the Look:
I'm a big fan of Lululemon's close-fitting pieces.
The versatile legging for every kind of workout.
I love this chunky twist on the classic Samba.
A baseball cap is a great way to add a subtle fashion twist to the workout look.
2. Leggings + Long Coat + Suede Bag
Style Notes: As someone who doesn't typically walk around in workout gear, I'm always keen to find chic ways to commute from my home to the gym, and Kim's outfit is a perfect example of how to pull it off. The slouchy sweatshirt and leggings keeps it relaxed, but the long coat and suede bag means you could happily head out for coffee or lunch after, too.
Shop the Look:
A long-sleeved workout top is ideal for January exercise.
These are a bestseller for a reason.
I can see myself living in this sweatshirt all winter long.
The ribbed socks with leggings and trainers combination is an influencer go-to.
Chunky perfection.
This refined coat would instantly elevate any outfit.
I love the slouchy silhouette of this suede tote.
3. Slogan Sweatshirt + Leggings
Style Notes: Want to keep things simple? Put a fun twist on an easy outfit by opting for a slogan sweatshirt that can brighten your mood as you head to the gym.
Shop the Look:
I love this subtle, buttery yellow colour.
Ideal for layering underneath.
Soft grey leggings are a brilliant alternative to the classic black.
So many fitness enthusiasts are singing the praises of ON's sneakers.
4. Sweatsuit + Trench Coat
Style Notes: The hardest thing about sticking to fitness resolutions in January is finding the motivation to go even on the coldest, greyest day. I think the key is in making sure you're cosy enough to brave the journey, and a sweatsuit is a great solution. If you don't like to work out in sweats, you can easily wear leggings and workout tops underneath.
Shop the Look:
Don't sleep on M&S's easy workout pieces.
Perfect for the most bracingly cold days.
The ruched detailing is so cool.
Is there anything better than a classic trench?
These chunky soled trainers are brilliant for those cold, rainy walks.
5. Colourful Set + Chunky Trainers
Style Notes: Looking for an extra dopamine hit to motivate you to head to the gym? Follow Emili's example and opt for a punchy hit of bright colour in monochromatic form. And what better colour to go for than the still-trending red?
Shop the Look:
My fitness enthusiast friends are big fans of Adanola's sets.
I'm a sucker for a square neckline.
Keep the red coming.
I love the retro look of this New Balance pair.
SHOP MORE GYM PIECES I LOVE:
I personally think that Marks & Spencer's Goodmove collection is one of the best activewear options on the high street.
This cosy fleece is ideal for the journey to and from the gym.
These flared leggings could be styled for in and outside the gym.
Throw this over your workout set and you're ready to brave the January freeze.
An oversized hoodie is an influencer go-to for workout outfits.
A great option for those who want a hint of colour.
For those really intense workouts.
I'm obsessed with Adidas's Wales Bonner collaboration.
Because you really do need the full set...
Hoka's are the new must-have sneaker.
I've added these to my gym outfit wish list.
The perfect piece to layer under your coat.
Such a lovely colour.
These look so comfy,
