8 Contemporary Activewear Brands You Need to Know This Summer

The day I swapped my Sergio Rossi's for Nikes was one of the best sartorial decisions of my life. With an evergrowing number of activewear brands to chose from, I no longer have to sacrifice style or fit in the name of comfort. 

If you're already familiar with contemporary brands like ALALA, Michi, Outdoor Voices and Varley and are looking for something a little different, this list has got you covered! 

Here are 8 contemporary activewear brands that are worth adding to your wardrobe:

1. SLINKII

 

@slinkii_athletic

SLINKII is an Australian luxury sportswear label that is perfect for minimalists. Their collection combines high quality pieces that are both refined and functional. SLINKII also partners with the global charity One Tree Planted and produces it's pieces with 100% organic cotton.

Their Florentia Bra (AUD 89) is made from a moisture-wicking fabric and is designed to fit your body without constricting it during exercise. Pair this with a light washed denim jacket and white leggings for a tropical-inspired attire that will take you from barre to De Maria in no time.

2. BELOFORTE

 

@beloforte

BELOFORTE is committed to crafting stylish activewear for confident women. The brand's range combines beauty with functionality as you'll discover for yourself while browsing their online shop. BELOFORTE's name is derived from the Portuguese words for beauty & strength.

Their Beverly Bra (USD 66) is handmade in California, features a soft stretch, high performance fabric and comes in a dreamy, romantic blush color (as well as Combat Green). Pair the bra with their matching Bootybreak 2.0 Legging and APL's TechLoom Pro White sneakers for your next workout or errand run.

3. Nimble

 

@nimbleactivewear

This Bondi Beach-based label believes in feminine, edgy and functional activewear. Nimble's high-performance compression fabrics are created with the perfect blend of polyester and spandex, ensuring that their pieces remain flattering, well-fitted and flexible over time.

I love Nimble's Monochromatic Set featuring their Criss Cross Jungle Leaf Sports Bra (USD 69) and Lauren Jungle Leaf Tights (USD 95). Their Neoprene Bucket Bag (USD 89) is also water resistant and machine washable, making it perfect for the gym or the beach, giving clean freaks like me a peace of mind.

 

4. Dharma Bums

 

@dharmabumsactive

Sydney-based activewear label Dharma Bums has the most colorful and fun prints I've ever come across on Instagram. Each new design is tried and tested on yogis worldwide before being ethically produced in Australia.

These Butterfly High Waisted Full-Length Pants (AUD 69) are bound to look great both inside a yoga studio and out on the streets of New York. Pair it with their White Qi Flow Bra (AUD 55) for an effortless, casual look.

5. NO KA'OI​

 

@shopnokaoi

NO KA'OI is a high-fashion activewear brand inspired by the powerful energy of Hawaii and the superior design heritage of Italy. Their collection features vibrant colors, organic patterns and unique details. Their pieces are designed using the finest couture principles and hand construction techniques in order to produce high quality items that are bold and undeniably stylish. 

Go wild mixing and matching your own unique outfit with a color block item and a moda one. You'll discover that the sky is the limit with their fun pieces.

6. NUXactive

 

@nuxactive

NUXactive was created for confident, intelligent and stylish women. Their high quality pieces were designed with both form and function in mind. Their items are manufactured in California.

NUXactive's Alana Bra (USD 53) and Alana Capri (USD 83) both feature an intricate pattern and cut out details and come in 6 colors. This matching set is understated yet beautiful and can be worn from season to season.

7. Girlfriend Collective

 

@girlfriendcollective

Girlfriend Collective uses recycled plastic to create their line of ultra comfortable and flattering bras and leggings (read more about the entire process here). When they first launched, they only offered one black legging and ran an awesome promo: all you had to pay for was your shipping cost to receive a pair of leggings in the mail. That promo might be over but Girlfriend Collective recently launched new styles and this Powder Blue color is a clear winner. Most Powder Blue pieces I had my eye on are already out of stock in my size so hurry over to check it out!

8. L'urv

 

@lurvsportswear

Melbourned-based L’urv designs limited edition pieces in flattering silhouettes and contemporary colors. Their pieces are made with superior fabric and showcases unique details. Their Neutral Collection are everything a minimalist's girls dreams are made of, meaning it took every fiber of my being to not purchase their entire store.