Best plus size activewear for curvy women to buy in Australia
From the $89.95 sports bra that will withstand a HIIT workout, to the $24.99 tights made for all sizes, Jessica Vander Leahy shares her top picks.
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OKAY, let’s be real: working out might not be your favourite thing to do so you’ll take motivation from anywhere you can get it, right? Including a fire activewear outfit.
But while the performance wear market seems to be thriving – it’s become a standard play for popular brands to release some kind athleisure line since the pandemic started – finding something high-performing yet on-trend when you’re above a size 14 can be tricky.
Be it tights that threaten to go see-through with each squat or crop tops that smoosh your chest into oblivion, rather than contour and control it; there are functional yet flattering choices out there for plus-size women, you’ve just got to know where to look.
Thankfully, I’m only too happy to do the heavy lifting for you and found some aerobic-friendly outfits you should give a run.
COTTON ON
Every workout wardrobe needs a solid shade bottom so Cotton On’s Active Core Capri Tight is an option that will complement your colourful crops without breaking the bank.
Available in sizes: 2XS-3XL.
Price: $24.99
RUNNING BARE
Bike shorts are somewhat of an enigma for the curvier customer, but Running Bare has managed to nail the High Rise Bike Tight 7” – a short that sits in just the right spot on your thigh and doesn’t threaten to ride up during your workout. They’re also available in a slightly longer 9-inch length too.
Available sizes: 8-22
Price: $64.99
FABLETICS
Founded by Kate Hudson, Fabletics is a stylish and inclusive range of workout gear. A top pick is the Ella High-Impact Zip Front Sports Bra which is available in eight different colours and features an ultra-convenient easy-on, easy-off style.
Available sizes: S-4X
Price: $64.95
NIKE
Flashes of colour-blocked sports bras are one way to spice up an otherwise dull exercise outfit. The Nike Indy crop, available in a few colours, looks great teamed under basic sweatshirts.
Available sizes: 1X – 3X
Price: $40
BERLEI
A great workout wardrobe is built from the bra (c) up! The Berlei Pro Elite Mesh Crop is geared at keeping your bust supported during high impact sports and features easily adjustable hook and loop straps for comfort.
Available sizes: 10DD – 20E
Price: $89.95
ACTIVE TRUTH
Drawing from a love of vibrant colour yet rooted in technical design Brisbane-based label Active Truth is the go-to for many curve customers who want a confidence-boosting workout wardrobe. A signature style is the Power Full Length Tight – a perfect all-day uniform available in fierce prints.
Available sizes: S-3XL
Price: $129.99
HOW TO PICK THE BEST WORKOUT CLOTHES?
While the athleisure market has exploded with exciting textiles and unique silhouettes, the most important thing to ask yourself before you invest in a fitness outfit is, can I actually wear this to workout?
I mean, sure you could wear anything, but if something is going to have you pulling and plucking at yourself while you’re supposed focused on a sweat session, then you’re best skipping it.
HOW TO WEAR ACTIVEWEAR EVERYDAY?
I’m not the biggest fan of letting performance wear overrun your entire wardrobe but I do believe that fashion and function can coexist to create a versatile sporty chic look, appropriate for spin class and the street. Picking styles that can be easily accessorised – think the right sunglasses or bomber jacket – will mean you’ll get more kick out of your gym kit.
WHAT ACTIVEWEAR FABRIC IS BEST?
If you’re serious about getting sweaty then make fabrics your best friend to ensure your workout gear will go the distance. You’ll find you can get technical yarns, like nylon and elastane blends, that allow you to stay dry and comfortable while exerting yourself.
The other fashion staple everyone needs in their wardrobe is a great white T-shirt.
Are you looking for more style ideas and fashion staples? Check out our Best Of Fashion section.
Jessica Vander Leahy is a model, writer and the founder of Project WomanKind, you can follow her on Instagram here.
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