Pack Your Gym Bag: The Post-Workout Pieces You Need for a Seamless Transition to the Office
July 24, 2018
For many of us, if we don’t set the alarm for an early-morning workout, exercise isn’t happening that day, period. But sometimes the biggest hurdle isn’t waking up or working out—it’s the annoyance (or impossibility) of changing into an office-appropriate outfit in a crowded, clammy locker room afterwards. The key? Pack your gym bag the night before, have your post-shower routine down pat (in a pinch, a slicked-back bun always looks elegant), and bring a streamlined outfit that won’t wrinkle en route or make you start perspiring all over again. Read on for our tips for building a polished post-workout outfit.
Post-Workout Outfit #1: If You’re Super Sweaty (Spin Class, Hot Yoga)
The Sarah dress in deep indigo.
If you’ve ever had to put your sports bra in a plastic baggie, you know what kind of workout we’re talking about—even a cold shower won’t cool you off entirely. You need a lightweight, sleeveless, zip-and-done dress that won’t get dark spots if you’re still, um, a little damp. The Emily is a polished option, especially for petites, as is the Shirley or the Sarah dress pictured above. If you’re taller, go for the Annie, or the Aditi. Both are made from a stretchy, breathable fabric blend that dries quickly and holds its shape—whether it’s been squashed in a duffel or worn for twelve hours straight. Keep a jardigan close at hand, in case you get chilly later (or if you know your office is freezing).
Post-Workout Outfit #2: If You’re Medium Sweaty (Dance Class, Weight-lifting)
The Rachel dress in black.
Even after a lower-impact workout, it’s still easy to get overheated, and there’s nothing worse than feeling sticky right after you’ve rinsed off. You’ll want to avoid long sleeves and separates (too much to deal with), and turn to thicker, tailored fabrics—like our soft, ponte—to keep you looking crisp and fabulous. The Rachel dress (shown above) is a great choice, as is the Lydia. Or you can try the ever-popular Tory dress, which features discreet, sweat-absorbing pads inside the sleeves to keep you fresh as a daisy.
Post-Workout Outfit #3: If You’re Slightly Flushed (Gentle Yoga, Brisk Walk)
The Didion top in rust and the Oshima pant in black.
In this case, your top priorities are packability, efficiency, and comfort—changing out of yoga clothes into something stiff, creased, or constraining is no one’s idea of a good time. For a one-step solution, try the classic Etsuko or Alexandra dresses, which all feature elbow-length sleeves. Alternately, you can mix and match our jersey separates: the Fey top, the Winfrey top, and the Soho skirt are designed for easy combinations. Finally, if you’re more of a pants person, try the Oshima: it looks like a polished trouser, but feels like yoga tights. If the Fey feels too fitted, substitute the breezy Didion top, and you’ll be ready to take the day by storm.