Ask The Expert: How to make sportswear look stylish, not post-workout

Choose less shiny fabrics so that they don’t look like your workout gear. Photo: Moncler

Ask The Expert is a monthly column on fashion and beauty. This time, Malaysian stylist Azza Arif shares tips on how to pull off sporty chic – one of the top fashion trends.

How can I incorporate sportswear into my everyday wardrobe as a fashion-forward person? – Lorraine, Klang

Fitted swimstyle bodysuits, windbreakers, track jackets, fitted tanks – and now, the return of the refined legging – are having a moment, but styled more like tailored essentials than gym gear.

Treat athletic pieces as your statement base: layer a fitted top under a blazer, a leotard with a long chiffon skirt or a cute fitted swim-style bodysuit with high waisted trousers or style drawstring pants – or leggings – with a polished knit.

It’s all about creating a fun balance – comfort, but curated.

How can I style athletic pieces like leggings or joggers to look more polished? – Jinni, PJ

Think less “running errands”, more “off-duty fashion editor”.

Start by upgrading the styling around them.

Stylist Azza Arif says that the top advice to elevate sportswear is to layer them properly, and choose the right accessories. Photo: Azza Arif

Leggings aren’t just for workouts anymore – they’re being styled with oversized blazers, sheer trenches, and even crisp shirting.

I’m loving the look of split-hem or stirrup leggings paired with a boxy linen blazer and barely-there heels – it feels effortless but considered.

Joggers in tech satin or washed silk can look incredibly chic when worn with a cropped utility jacket or a fitted tank with sculptural shoulders.

Tonal dressing is huge this season, so try layering soft sage or sand tones head to toe for a look that feels modern and curated.

And don’t be afraid of accessories. Structured crossbody bags, and statement earrings instantly elevate the vibe.

The secret? Keep the silhouette neat and make it look deliberate, not leftover from a workout.

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What are some must-have fashion accessories to elevate a sporty look? – Jesrina, Kuantan

Simplicity with edge works best. Minimalist jewelry – like chunky hoops or a sculptural cuff – can instantly add refinement.

A crossbody bag with a strong silhouette, a cap in a luxe fabric like suede or canvas, or even sporty wraparound sunglasses can shift the look into street-style territory.

And don’t underestimate the power of good socks – crisp, visible, and intentional. Details matter.

Are there specific fabrics or colours to avoid? I want to look runway ready and not like I’m dressed for a pilates class. – Neel, Butterworth

Skip anything overly shiny, sheer, or neon unless you’re committing to a full look.

Glossy lycra, sheer mesh, and loud contrast piping can easily tip into “gym mode”.

Instead, look for matte finishes, soft knits, and woven tech fabrics that hold their shape.

Colours like bone, clay, midnight or muted citron feel modern and fashion- forward, whereas overly saturated hues can feel dated or too casual.

You want your clothes to suggest movement – not a workout.

How can I mix luxury or streetwear pieces with sportswear without looking overdone? – Riya, KL

Focus on tension and restraint. If your base is sporty – say, leggings and a tank – add one strong luxe piece, like a structured coat or tailored vest.

Even a tracksuit can look high fashion if you switch up your footwear, like in this picture, worn with Mary Janes. Photo: Wales Bonner

If your streetwear item is the hero (like a cropped hoodie or cargo jacket), balance it with clean basics like a midi skirt or wide-leg pants.

Limit the palette to two or three tones max, and let texture do the talking. When each element has breathing room, the look feels considered, not chaotic.

What footwear styles best complement a sporty-chic outfit? Aren’t sneakers too cliched? – Bryan, Cheras

Sneakers are still in – just not the ones you’d wear to the gym.

Think streamlined shapes, interesting materials, or unexpected colour pairings.

If you want to avoid sneakers entirely, try slides with a minimalist edge, mules, or even a square-toe boot to add contrast.

Sporty-chic doesn’t mean predictable – it means knowing how to twist the rules just enough to make them your own.

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What’s a top tip to easily transition my look, from workout clothes to a casual brunch or social event, without changing completely? – Maya, Shah Alam

Layer something structured over your activewear.

A cute boxy jacket, tailored vest, high waisted pants, or crisp shirt instantly reframes the entire outfit.

Swap your shoes/trainers out, mules or sandals in – and add a handbag that doesn’t scream “locker room”.

Keep a bold lip or slicked-back hair in your toolkit too.

Do you have any questions on fashion and beauty? Email us with the subject heading Ask The Expert at [e-mail]. Please include your name, address, contact number and if you prefer, a pseudonym.