Sweat in Style: The Summer Workout Edit
Let’s be real, I live in activewear all summer (year) long. Between Pilates twice a week, picking up tennis again (once a week and loving it), and my near-daily 2-mile walks, workout clothes are basically my uniform. And since I work from home and chase a toddler around, I need pieces that perform, but also look good enough to wear through the rest of my day. Whether you’re working out, working from home, or just working through a busy summer, these are my go-to picks for staying cool, comfortable, and cute.
Let’s start from the top(s)
When it comes to workout tops, I’m team bra coverage only, please. I don’t wear racerback sports bras because they hurt my neck (shoutout to my sports bra guide if you’re in the same boat), so I need tops that actually cover the goods and straps. This two-pack of short-sleeved tees has been a great, affordable find that I’ve had for a few years now. I wear both colors regularly. If you're looking for something buttery soft and sleek, the Momentum Seamless Tee is an elevated workout basic that layers beautifully while also standing alone, as seen here. This affordable, size-inclusive tank is great for walks and tennis, lightweight and breathable without clinging.
And for Pilates, I’ve been loving tanks like this (use CARALYN15 at Spanx) and this that are tight enough that I can actually wear them without a bra (a rare and beautiful moment), just my CAKES nipple covers (use CARALYNM), and I’m good to go.
onto skorts and shorts
I’m not usually a shorts girl, but I’m fully on board with the skort resurgence. They’re cute, practical, and perfect for walks, tennis, errands, you name it. And yes, they all have side pockets, which is non-negotiable at this point.
I just got this $20 skort in the mail, and it is such a solid budget find, lightweight and easy to move in. The Athleta skort is one of my favorites, so easy to wear, super flattering, and has more structure, making it great for tennis or a put-together athleisure look. It also has light grippers on the inside of the leg, which help keep it in place. I used to swear by the Get Moving Spanx skort that (RIP) they discontinued, but I just ordered their new 14” style, and I have high hopes because it looks similar, so I will report back. And if you’re more into shorts, these bike shorts are my MVP for oversized tees or for low-impact workouts. If you’re looking for a more traditional short, I’ve heard great things about these!
Athletic dresses
Dresses that feel like loungewear but look like you tried? Say less. I love throwing on a workout-friendly dress in the summer, whether I’m heading to Pilates, walking with Conrad, or just trying to stay cool while still looking put-together.
This under $30 dress blew me away, I'm truly impressed with the quality for the price, and love that it’s bra-friendly. This active dress is a great plus-size friendly pick (sizes 10-30) with longer built-in shorts that don’t ride up (a must). I just got the Spanx tank dress and already know I’ll be living in it, it’s supportive enough to wear without a bra, just my CAKES nipple covers, and still feel held and cute. And this one is another affordable, size-inclusive find that’s easy to throw on and go.
AND A FEW EXTRA ESSENTIALS
These no-show socks are a recent find, slightly thicker than the ones I’ve shared before, and perfect for sneakers (no slipping, no blisters). Speaking of sneakers, I got these new tennis court shoes, and they’ve been a comfortable addition, not just cute, but also genuinely supportive. Hydration is non-negotiable, and this no-spill Brümate bottle keeps my water cold and my toddler from dumping it everywhere. And if you’re in the market for real support up top, this high-impact sports bra is one I love so much I bought it in two colors. For more sports bra recommendations, be sure to check out my sports bra guide here!
leggings i SWEAR BY
I don’t reach for leggings as much in the summer, but I still wear them regularly for walks, Pilates, or cooler mornings. When I do, I stick to styles that feel good and stay put. The Spanx Booty Boost 7/8 is my go-to when I want high compression and support (also available in full length). And a friendly reminder: none of these should roll if they’re the right size. The OnForm Leggings are like butter, super smooth, body-conforming, and ideal for comfort. For a budget option, I love the CRZ leggings; they’re weightless, come in plus sizes here, and honestly rival way pricier pairs. And the Athleta Elation Leggings have stood the test of time, mine have lasted years and still look brand new.
For more ATHLEISURE AND LOUNGE WEAR,
see my LTK collection here.
Summer Sweat Styles I Love
Sharing a few recent looks I’ve been living in lately, whether I’m walking, playing tennis, doing Pilates, or just chasing a toddler with a cold brew in hand. These pieces are cute, comfy, and made to move.
SPORTS BRA (I SIZED UP IN THE BAND) | SIMILAR SKORT
MORE PLACES WORTH CHECKING OUT:
ABERCROMBIE | AERIE | AMAZON (SEE MY CURATION HERE) | ATHLETA | CALIA | GIRLFRIEND COLLECTIVE | LULULEMON | OLD NAVY | SPANX | TORRID
Thanks for reading!
Whether you’re hitting the mat, the court, the sidewalk, or just trying to survive summer in mom mode, I hope this guide helps you feel a little more comfortable (and a lot more put-together). Here’s to moving your body, feeling good in your clothes, and finding pieces that work as hard as you do.
xx CMK