Whether you’re a dedicated gym-goer, live in athleisure or want to explore the sports-luxe trend emerging from pre-spring runways, premium activewear brands are an investment your wardrobe will thank you for. If you’ve made a New Year’s resolution to upgrade your fitness routine (and your wardrobe), you might be wondering where to start. We’ve curated the best women’s activewear brands to suit every activity, from running to yoga and everything in-between.

If you’re looking for a conscious women’s activewear brand, Girlfriend Collective is the one for you. The label uses fabrics made from recycled plastic bottles (rPET) and recycled fishing nets, among other recycled materials. Additionally, the brand’s clothing is OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified, ensuring all materials used are non-toxic and safe for consumers. Expect staple sweat-wicking base layers including sports bras, leggings, tank tops and more in neutral tones to seamlessly transition you from work-from-home to gym-class-ready in no time.

Lara and Ben Mead met in 2010 while training for the London Marathon. The couple bonded over their shared passion for practical, luxurious loungewear and activewear and before long Varley was founded. Built to cater to all seasons, the collections offer everything from sweatshirts and loungewear sets to joggers and jackets. Quality fabrics, warm tones and loose silhouettes epitomize Varley’s clothing, emphasising the brand’s focus on elegance and comfort.

For the athleisure fans among us, there are few things greater than a sportswear/luxury designer collaboration — and few have been as popular as adidas by Stella McCartney. From Primegreen products made with a minimum of 40% recycled materials to vegan insulation seen in TrueNature puffer jackets, Stella’s sustainable credentials consistently deliver. Similarly, adidas brings performance-enhancing technical details such as flexible sneaker midsoles and water-resistant fabrics for outdoor pursuits. Whether you’re running, training or hitting the tennis court, adidas by Stella McCartney is there to up your game and your sportswear rotation.

This Paris-based label is all about swimwear and activewear that embody effortless, elegant appeal. Look to classic swimsuit and bikini silhouettes in the form of bandeaus and halternecks, comprised of the brand’s signature shape-retaining and ultra-soft ‘peau douce’ fabric. For yoga and pilates outfits that promise to make you feel your best, opt for ruched jumpsuits and simple leotards. And the perfect New Year’s resolution reward? An understated beach dress to throw over your swimwear.

Founded in New York in 2014, Sporty & Rich initially started out as a moodboard on Instagram and later grew into the retro women’s activewear brand that we know today. Preppy and vintage inspired, the brand’s offering includes logo sweatshirts and hoodies to layer on top of tennis skirts or ribbed leggings. Runners will rejoice at the running short selection while gym lovers will love the performance layers. At the end of your session, throw your belongings into a branded tote and head home.

Formerly On Running, the brand’s design philosophy centers on the concept of ‘walking on clouds’. The award-winning label creates science-driven sneakers, with Swiss-engineered CloudTec® soles that boost take-off while cushioning the foot. Standouts include Cloudmonster and Cloudsurfer styles favored by runners everywhere for their striking design and Helion™ superfoam cushioning. Not just for running, On also provides sneakers for tennis, hiking and training as well as streetwear-inspired gym clothing.

Elastane

Also known as spandex or Lycra, elastane is a synthetic fiber offering impressive movement. It’s what allows your leggings to stretch and return to their original shape. It’s important to highlight its non-biodegradability. However, sustainable options do exist such as LYCRA® EcoMade Fiber made from recycled materials and Roica™ V550 which is not only made from 50% recycled materials but also claims to biodegrade.

Nylon

A synthetic polymer known for its durability, abrasion resistance and elasticity, nylon is a versatile material. In activewear it’s sweat wicking, lightweight and quick drying. However, nylon is less breathable than natural fibers as well as being a petroleum-based, non-biodegradable plastic. Alternatives include ECONYL® which is made entirely from recycled plastics and Nylon 6, which is more easily recyclable.

Polyester

Polyester is considered more UV and water resistant, speedier at drying and more adept at sweat wicking than nylon, yet it lacks the same stretch and strength. Found in almost every type of activewear, polyester is extremely versatile. Again, it's a petroleum-based plastic so if you’d prefer a more sustainable alternative, opt for rPET made from recycled plastic bottles. Biodegradable options are hard to find though there is CiCLO technology which can be used in production to aid biodegradation of synthetic fibers.

Cotton

100% natural, cotton boasts excellent breathability and softness. It’s naturally moisture wicking but doesn’t dry that quickly. If you’re into high intensity workouts, cotton isn’t the best choice but it’s recommended for pilates, yoga, hiking and other low intensity activities.

Merino wool

Sourced from Merino sheep, this prized type of wool is naturally sweat wicking, non-itchy, odor resistant and regulates temperature impressively. Often used for base layers, it’s a popular choice for skiers and hikers. Like cotton, it's 100% natural and a renewable resource.

- Air out activewear that smells before you wash it.

- If the smell persists, submerge items in a mixture of one part distilled white vinegar with three parts water for an hour before washing according to the care instructions.

- Always wash inside out to tackle hard to reach dirt and grime.

- Wash on a cold cycle and don’t put items in the tumble dryer.

- Don’t use fabric softener on synthetic fabrics as it can diminish their sweat wicking ability.

- Avoid ironing as high heat can damage synthetic materials.

An enduring trend that shows no signs of slowing, athleisure may appear effortless, but requires thoughtful styling to keep it looking current and on-trend.

We asked our in-house merchandiser, Charlotte Berry, how she would approach styling athleisure. Here’s what she had to say:

‘Nowadays activewear isn’t just for the gym – it can be worn for your everyday errands and even elevated with other wardrobe staples for a sporty but chic look. In order to make your activewear pieces cross-functional, ensure you stick to neutral/trending tones that are versatile, avoiding any overly sporty elements or logos. Layering is key: pair with wardrobe staples such as knitwear or a trench coat for an instantly elevated look. Also invest in functional but stylish trainers to tie together the whole look.’

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Olivia Woodhouse is an SEO copywriter at FARFETCH, where she optimizes on-site content and has helped relaunch the fashion blog as the Fashion Feed. With a background spanning fashion, lifestyle, tech and travel, she brings a versatile voice to every project.