Did you know that there's a real connection between the clothes you wear while working out and your performance while wearing them? Your workout clothes actually play a big factor in maintaining the habit of exercising. Lucky for us, a lot of local activewear brands have nailed the perfect combo of fashion and function, so you don't have to look far for the perfect gym (selfie) outfit. So if you're thinking about adding new cute pieces to your athleisure wardrobe, here are some local options to choose from.
MillennX Athletic Gear
This true-blue Filipino brand, created by the GJ Coher design team (Glenn Hernandez and Jamille Co), proudly display a bold aesthetic of sophisticated colour palettes and unique designs. While the top-notch materials they use are sourced from different countries around the world, GJ Coher designs and manufactures each and every piece in the Philippines. Their pieces are a favourite amongst Filipino celebrities, including Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach and actress Nadine Lustre, who have worn their designs in performances and appearances, channelling that edgy-chic athleisure vibe.
Ina Activewear
Looking for tried-and-true workout pieces? Ina Activewear is the namesake brand of Ina Feleo, a Filipina former competitive figure skater and professional dancer. Driven by the need to make more stylish and comfortable activewear that she personally likes to wear while training, Ina designs her pieces with the perfect balance of classic and sexy in mind. The best part? They’re all within an affordable price range. A piece starts at PHP380/~USD7.38.
Yumi Active
Ever thought about celebrating your Asian heritage through activewear? Singapore’s Yumi Activewear has fitness apparel with distinctly Asian prints such as Singapore's Vanda Miss Joaquim national flower and Peranakan tile motifs. Its founder, Diana Chang, is also heavily inspired by haute couture so Yumi Active pieces always bring a little essence of the runway to the gym or yoga studio. They also use custom-made multi-tasking materials in their activewear, which is very important in making you feel comfortable and supported throughout your workout.
Banana Fighter
With a name this quirky, who wouldn’t be intrigued? Banana Fighter Activewear is a labour of love by Malaysian wardrobe stylist Mandy Yap. Her designs are the perfect fashion-activewear fusion that you can wear from studio to the streets. If you’re searching for hip workout pieces without the heavy price tag, this is the perfect place to start.
HERMS
To cap off the list, we have HERMS, an activewear brand from Malaysia. Hermione Goh started the brand with the belief that women can strive to live a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing their sense of style. The HERMS collection has affordable pieces made to perform well and look great as you sweat it out in the gym. If you’re more of a beach goddess, they also have a swimwear collection with the same fashionably functional features.
(Cover photo from: @millennx)
Here are some more suggestions for your athleisure shopping.
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