I don’t know whether it’s the same at every Uni, but at Exeter there’s a definite trend of sporting your gym kit on campus. Whether it’s head to toe stash, full on lycra or the mere glimpse of running leggings beneath a baggy jumper, everyone has their own approach to the sportswear on campus look. We all have at least one friend that can somehow manage to look effortlessly cool and stylish despite being dressed for the gym, and it’s annoying, to say the least, seeing her looking so great and being active at the same time. So here’s a brief guide on how to achieve that perfect harmony between practicality and style; the laidback sporty look.
Fortunately for us, lycra is becoming more and more fashionable and it’s possible to look good even without the carefully styled oversized jumper. H&M has a great sportswear range; the neon purple sportsbra (£14.99) is an ideal starting point. True, no one on campus is going to see it, but the old saying that great underwear also makes you feel great goes for gym time as well as play time.As for the bottom half of your outfit, leggings are pretty much the safest, most comfortable and most stylish bet. It’s personal preference as to which length you go for, but Her Campus recommends the cropped style. Nikeleggings are incredibly chic but not surprisingly pretty pricey,however H&M offers a much cheaper and equally attractive alternative (£14.99).
Whether you’re a leggings or a yoga shorts kind of girl, gym-wear exposes the bits of our bodies we are most self conscious about. The ‘problem area’ (inner thighs) is emphasised in both of these items, so finding a loose fit oversized jumper is a must for trips onto campus. Especially if you’re trying to kill two birds with one stone and have planned in a library session prior to your gym session – you don’t want to be bumping into the guy you fancy in your skimpy lycras when you are merely in the beginning stages of acquiring your dream physique. The Cooperative Oversized Mono Crew Sweater (£45) from Urban Outfitters will not let you down. It’ll look perfectly understated paired with your Nike trainers – and yes Nike is probably the only option when it comes to trainers, and if you are really keen and join the Nike Running Club you get a 10% discount in the store. Try to avoid being tempted by fashion trainers, as these will not support your feet during sport. There are loads of stylish sports/running trainers though, so you won’t be short of options. Head to Sports Direct to grab yourself a bargain as their permanent closing down sale offers some great price cuts.
It’s getting colder and colder by the day so a coat or a scarf of some sort is essential to complete your on campus gym kit look. You can’t go far wrong with a hooded parka, and you’ll be spoilt for choice, as they are everywhereright now! Zara have got several parka options but their khaki parka with the detachable fur collar (£69.99) is ideal for flinging on over your sports kit and power walking onto campus. With this new look you’ll feel so great that you may find yourself hitting the gym more frequently, but even if you still only manage a quick session once a week, you’ll walk onto campus with your head held high knowing that you are the girl who’s nailed the sporty-stylish look.
Picture credits:
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