Workout Gear Is No Longer Confined To The Gym – So Up Your Game & Get Kitted Out In Style
Whether you’re a fitness fanatic or you just want to look the part (hey, there’s nothing wrong with dressing for comfort – and activewear is still a thing – plus it might even inspire you to book that class, sign up for the forthcoming Dubai Women’s Run or get involved in the Dubai Fitness Challenge), one thing’s for sure, your old workout leggings and crappy t-shirt just aren’t going to cut it anymore.
With my workout gear in desperate need of an upgrade, I sought the help of some of my fashionista fitness friends (who can often be found rocking some very cool kit on the running track or in the gym) about their favourite places to shop for fitness wear. Get ready to upgrade your look (even if it’s just for the school run – we’re not judging..)
Pre-loved gym wear at Barre Effect
This brilliant initiative by our favourite barre studio Barre Effect is running throughout October in support of Pink Caravan and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Think gently used high-end workout leggings (there’ll be no sweaty old stock allowed) that’ll have to pass the pre-loved test and be fit for wear before being sold. Simply visit Barre Effect’s Al Wasl studio between October 2-15 to donate and then between October 16-29 to buy and pledge to support Pink Caravan.
www.barreeffectdxb.com
@barreeffectdxb
Read More…Luxe Loves Barre Effect
H&M
Yes it’s true, you don’t need to splash out to workout in comfort and style! H&M have got a fab range of mix and match leggings, shorts, crop tops and vests in neutral tones. Occasionally they’ll also release patterns to die for (oh how I still long for those animal print leggings that never made it into my basket!). Oh and actress, activist and fitness icon Jane Fonda is the face of the brand’s Empower campaign – pretty cool right?!
www.hm.com
@hm_move
Lululemon
Still one of the best places to buy activewear that looks good, feels good and is going to last! It’s not cheap but you get what you pay for – whether you’re a runner, a yoga bunny or the aforementioned fan of hanging out in leggings….
We visited the MOE store where a very charming sales assistant helped pick out the perfect set for our workout schedule. Comfy but potentially a little on the small size….
www.lululemon.com
@lululemonme

Squatwolf
Well priced and well fitting – plus created here in Dubai –what’s not to love?! For the biggest selection shop online or head to Adventure HQ. Don’t expect patterns and colour – but do expect a great cut and lovely comfy fabric with subtle detailing (love the cut-outs in the leggings we chose). Stood up to the barre class test well!
www.squatwolf.com
@squatwolf
Oysho
Spanish brand Oysho has the softest and most flattering leggings EVER – and they won’t slip while in downward dog. In seasonal colours, go for matching crop tops and cycling shorts (or real shortie shorts if you want to show off those legs) – they also do a gorgeous range of leisure wear (the kind that makes you look stylish while on a flight) and some seriously sassy swimwear too. High quality but affordable at the same time – the only thing to watch out for is the underwear which is lovely but comes up very small!!
www.oysho.com
@oysho
L’Couture
Another brand homegrown here in Dubai (yay!) – lovely quality and really well priced. Expect plain colours, no prints and great cuts. They have the most gorgeous flagship store on Al Wasl Road (also in most malls) so you can go try it all on while being offered treats – honestly the shopping experience alone was worth it! Beautifully soft fabrics, lovely colours, WE LOVE!
www.lcouture.com
@lcoutureofficial
Stronger
A Swedish brand inspired by nature and committed to sustainability – super quality and cut – whether you’re into plain or print, there’s something for every kind of exercise and taste. And their ethos to empower women and minimise environmental impact ticks every box.
www.strongerlabel.com
@stronger
words by Kaya
featured image by Annemiek Smegen on Unsplash
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