If you’ve ever scrolled social media and felt inspired by the sleek, comfy vibe of athleisure but weren’t sure how to make it work for plus size bodies, you’re not alone. Finding the right balance of comfort and style in athleisure can be a real confidence booster, and the best part is that this look is as versatile as it gets. I’ve picked up a few smart tricks from years of trying out different brands, fabrics, fits, and tweaks, so here’s my honest, practical guide to rocking athleisure as a plus size person.
Athleisure Basics: Why It Works Well for Plus Size Bodies
Athleisure is more than just workout clothes worn for errands. It’s all about comfortable, sporty pieces you can style into casual daywear. For plus size bodies, this trend is really handy because it blends stretchy, breathable fabrics with relaxed cuts. Lots of pieces, like leggings or oversized hoodies, are already made to fit and move well, which means you get comfort without sacrificing style.
The fashion world is catching up, and more brands are offering extended sizing and better fit options. The days of settling for dull black leggings and a baggy tee are fading out fast. With more brands offering cool patterns, bold colors, and thoughtful designs in sizes 1X and above, plus size folks now have way more choices for building versatile athleisure outfits.
Getting Started: Building a Foundation with Fit and Fabric
A strong athleisure look starts with the basics. Think leggings, joggers, bikershorts, tank tops, and hoodies. For plus size bodies, paying attention to fabric and fit is super important. Don’t underestimate the power of a truly comfortable fabric and the right cut for your body.
- Fabrics That Feel Good: Look for fabrics with a bit of stretch, like spandex blends or performance knits. Sweatwicking materials are great for staying cool on the move, while cotton blends are ultrasoft for lounging. I usually avoid super thin materials since they can go seethrough or roll down at the waist.
- Fit That Flatters (and Moves): Don’t settle for anything that rolls, pinches, or gaps. Highrise leggings that offer tummy support, joggers with an adjustable waistband, and oversized tees with a structured shoulder are all winners in my book. Trying gear on at home and moving around—walking, squatting, sitting—can be the best way to check how it really fits.
Keep a close eye on seams, too. Flatlock seams help prevent rubbing or irritation, which can be especially helpful if you’re on the go all day. Also, look for hidden pockets, especially if you want to carry your phone or small items with you.
Styling Athleisure for Everyday Confidence
Plus size athleisure isn’t just for gym sessions. Here are my tried-and-true ways to build stylish looks for school, errands, or even casual meetups without feeling underdressed. The key is to make athleisure work for your lifestyle and body type—don’t be afraid to play and find what feels best.
Layer Like a Pro
Layering makes athleisure look intentional and polished. I throw a denim jacket or lightweight utility vest over a sports bra and highwaist leggings for a look you can wear anywhere. Oversized buttondown shirts left open over a crop top plus joggers give a sporty streetwear vibe. Choose layers that are flowy but not shapeless to avoid hiding your curves. Consider a bomber jacket for evenings to add a little edge and extra warmth.
Play with Color and Prints
While blackonblack is always a safe bet, I love switching it up with colorful sets or statement prints. Colorblocked sneakers, tiedye bikershorts, or a printed mesh top under a jacket make outfits pop. If you’re new to bold pieces, try bright accessories or shoes to dip your toes in before going for allover color or prints. Mixing colors also gives a boost to both your mood and the overall outfit vibe.
Mix Up Proportions
I mix tighter pieces—like fitted leggings or a crop tank—with oversized sweaters or relaxed jackets for dimension. On the flip side, a boxy crop top with highrise, wideleg joggers feels easy and on trend. Mixing fitted and loose pieces keeps the look balanced and comfortable. It’s all about matching silhouettes so nothing feels overly bulky or too tight.
Sneaker Game Strong
Good sneakers are the real hero of athleisure. Chunky sneakers or slipon trainers pull an outfit together and are easy on the feet all day. Look for shoes that have a cushioned sole and solid arch support, especially for wider feet. A white sneaker pairs easily with any outfit, but don’t shy away from picking something a little eye catching for that nextlevel cool factor.
Common Challenges and Smart Solutions
Even with more brands expanding their plus size lines, some challenges can still pop up. Here’s how I work around a few of the bigger ones:
- Waistbands That Don’t Stay Put: Adjustable drawstrings, higherrise leggings, or tights with reinforced panels help leggings and joggers stay up throughout the day.
- Chafing: Antichafe bikershorts under dresses, moisturewicking fabrics, and using a little antichafe balm on skin contact points make a huge difference.
- Limited InStore Options: Shopping online opens up way more stylish options, even if it means ordering multiple sizes to try on at home. Brands with free returns make it easier.
- Finding the Right Lengths: Some brands now offer “tall” or “petite” plus fits for pants and sleeves. Cuffing or knotting tops is also a simple way to adjust hemlines on the fly.
Waistbands That Don’t Stay Put
I’ve found that a wide elastic waistband with a drawstring keeps leggings from sliding around during the day. Compression fabric helps with support, but make sure it doesn’t dig in or roll at the back. Sometimes, simply opting for a thicker waistband can solve this annoyance entirely and let you move freely.
Chafing
Lots of plus size folks know the struggle of inner thigh chafing. That’s why antichafe shorts or leggings with light compression are a staple for me, whether or not I plan to work out. Brands like Thigh Society and Snag offer comfy shorts that vanish under outfits and keep skin happy all day. Some folks also like thigh bands, which are strips of soft fabric worn around the thighs, for extra comfort.
Online Shopping Hacks
It’s totally normal to order two or three sizes of the same piece and return what doesn’t work. Many plus size creators share tryons on social media and break down which brands run small, stretch, or have quirks, so checking those is really helpful before hitting “buy.” Don’t forget to look closely at size guides, reviews, and photos—these often mention if pieces shrink after washes or if fabrics feel especially soft or stiff.
My Favorite Brands and Where to Shop
More brands release plus size collections every season. Here are a few that I’ve had good luck with and why I keep coming back:
- Torrid: Great for supportive leggings, trendy prints, and quality fabrics that last. Their sports bras come in a wide range of band and cup sizes so you can always find your fit.
- Old Navy Active: Solid size range (up to 4X in most pieces), affordable, and soft, stretchy fabrics. Their PowerSoft leggings are a staple for lots of plus size folks and hold up well even after many washes.
- Girlfriend Collective: Inclusive sizing and ecofriendly fabrics. Their highrise leggings and compressive bras hold up well during actual workouts, and the fabric is gentle on sensitive skin.
- Universal Standard: Extended sizing and minimal, classic styles that look higher end. Joggers and basics from here transition easily from home to errands, so you can count on them for versatility and durability.
- Fabletics: Fun sets, lots of prints, and options for different inseam lengths, which is pretty handy for taller or shorter people. Keep an eye out for their membership deals which often make it more affordable to try a few different styles.
Trying on different brands helps you figure out which cuts and fabrics feel best, so don’t be afraid to experiment a bit. Sometimes, pieces you didn’t expect to love can become your go-to favorites. Shopping at small, independent designers on Etsy or Instagram can also lead you to unique finds tailored for plus size bodies.
Advanced Tips for Rocking Plus Size Athleisure
If you’re feeling confident in your basics, these are a few advanced pointers that can really take your athleisure styling up a notch:
- Accessorize: Add baseball caps, fannypacks, or simple jewelry for an “on-purpose” vibe. Functional totes or geometric backpacks are great for running errands and tie your outfit together. Try oversized sunglasses or a minimal watch for a fresh touch.
- Match Sets for Easy Outfits: I go for colorcoordinated crop and leggings sets, then layer with a neutral trench or a statement sneaker. Matching sets are a quick style win and take the guesswork out of getting dressed.
- Bring in Unexpected Pieces: Mix a mesh workout top over a bra with wideleg joggers, or style a hooded dress with chunky sneakers for a twist on classic athleisure. Pulling in nonathletic accessories stops the outfit from feeling too gym bound. Scarves, classic totes, or even a structured blazer can unexpectedly work well in athleisure combos and make the whole look feel fresh.
- Tailor What You Love: Simple hemming or adding a stitch for a better fit goes a long way. If your goto joggers are too long, don’t be shy about getting them tailored. Small alterations can make all the difference in comfort and silhouette.
Another tip: rotate your basics seasonally. In summer, bikershorts and breezy tanks are key. In winter, thermal leggings, cozy hoodies, and lightweight insulated jackets are your best friends for keeping warm while staying true to the athleisure aesthetic.
Frequently Asked Questions About Plus Size Athleisure
Here are a few of the common questions I see pop up when chatting about athleisure for plus size folks:
Question: Can I wear crop tops with athleisure outfits if I’m plus size?
Answer: Absolutely! Highrise bottoms paired with crop tops create a comfortable, trendy silhouette. Layering a lightweight jacket or open shirt over a crop can help ease into the style if you’re new to showing skin. The real trick is to wear what feels right for you and experiment until you feel at ease in your look.
Question: What about support? Are there really supportive sports bras for bigger busts?
Answer: Yes, brands like Torrid, Lane Bryant, and Girlfriend Collective make sports bras with wide bands, adjustable straps, and good coverage. I always check for reviews mentioning support and comfort before buying. Try a few different styles if you can, since body shapes and preferences vary so much.
Question: How do I avoid athleisure outfits looking too “sloppy” or like pajamas?
Answer: Mixing fitted and oversized pieces, adding structure with jackets or vests, and finishing with clean sneakers or subtle accessories help keep things polished instead of lazy. Go for bold earrings or a structured bag to top things off and instantly upgrade the look.
Enjoying Athleisure, Your Way
Athleisure for plus size bodies is less about following rigid rules and more about finding pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable. Brands are improving, options are growing, and with a little experimenting, it’s possible to look put together and feel great. The goal is to curate your own style, embracing fits, colors, and combinations you genuinely enjoy wearing. With a few styling tricks in your back pocket, athleisure can easily be part of your daily routine and make getting dressed in the morning a lot more fun. And remember—a touch of creativity and a dash of confidence will always be the best accessories of all!
Please leave a comment showing your expertise or any extra tips, or feel free to ask any questions.
