Ask Melanie: Fashion & Fitness

collection of individuals wearing various styles of casual loungewear
Ask Melanie: Fashion & Fitness M&S, Free People, LuluLemon, Vuori

Q. I’ve just committed to working out three times a week and need some new kit, but all I can find is form-fitting clothes that leave nothing to the imagination. Why is it all so tight? Any advice on where I can find comfortable workout clothes that double as stylish everyday wear? - Justine, 49

Hi Justine, like you, I’m SO done with feeling like everything’s on display whenever I step into a gym. Luckily for us, workout brands have finally got the memo and started to offer a wider range of comfortable cuts that can do both – keep you comfy in the gym and on the coffee run.

Your first task is to ignore the compression pants and zone in on tracksuit-style bottoms with a snug-fit waistband. I love the great value relaxed-fit joggers from M&S’ Goodmove collection and Lululemon’s looser Dance Studio trousers. Pair them with a loose-fit cotton T-shirt, your trusted sports bra, and you’re ready.

My personal favourite, though, is the Performance Jogger by responsible US brand Vuori. At £100, they’re a little pricey, but I’ve owned my pair for two years and I’ve worn them hundreds of times, making their cost per wear 50p at most.

For a complete workout palate cleanser, I also adore the One to Beat set by Free People – the matching short sleeve sweatshirt and cropped loose tracksuit trousers bestow instant laidback style both in and out of the gym. Layer a long sleeve cotton T-shirt underneath and you’ll be turning heads everywhere you go.

Let’s end the tyranny of too tight gym gear!


Performance Jogger

Vouri
Vouri

£100.00 at vuoriclothing.co.uk


Dance Studio Mid-Rise Pant Short

Lululemon
Lululemon

£108.00 at lululemon.co.uk


High Waisted Stormwear™ Relaxed Fit Joggers

M&S
M&S

£32.50 at marksandspencer.com


One To Beat Set

Free People
Free People

£88.00 at freepeople.com


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