Lowanna Power Tank $117.
Spring is finally here and now that we’re through most of the cold wet weather of winter, we are keen to get out and stretch our legs. One of the things I get asked about most often is activewear – there’s a misconception that there aren’t any plus size activewear brands out there, when in reality there are more than a few to choose from. Here are some that are available both in New Zealand and online.
Olive Leopard Full Length Leggings AUD $114.99 (far left), Mama Full Length Pregnancy Tights AUD $119.99 (left), Botanical Essential 3/4 Length Tights AUD $104.99 (right), Midnight Palm Ultimate 7/8 Length Tights AUD $109.99 (far right).
Active Truth is an Australian activewear label that makes size S-3XL (8-26). They make a few different pieces, but what always stands out is their leggings – they come in a few different lengths (3/4, 7/8 or full length) and are even available in a maternity fit. They have great designs (midnight palm and grey leopard are my favourites) and I love the high waist.
Slingback Mesh Top $113.00 (left), Summit Long Sleeve Top AUD $95.00 (centre), Mesh Sculpt Tights $123.00 (right).
Another great Aussie label is Lowanna (also available from Zebrano in New Zealand), they do sizes 14-26 and have a whole bunch of great styles. Lowanna really embraces mesh as one of their fabrics, so keep an eye out for cool mesh details in their pieces. I really like their bright blue power tank (featured image, above) because the mesh neckline insert means your cleavage isn’t on full show when you’re bending over – something you don’t necessarily think about until you’re at the gym!
Crop Top $69.90 (left), Eyelet Insert Tee $79.90 (centre), Active Jacket $119.90 (right).
New Zealand retailer K&K have made their first foray into activewear this season. There’s only a few pieces to start with, but they’ve got the basics covered in sizes S-3XL (10-26). We’re loving the hot pink amongst the black and grey marle, and the active jacket is our favourite piece from the range – it zips up, has a hood, comes with zip pockets (perfect if you’re out and about) and is lightweight, meaning you can wear it over the warmer months without getting too hot.
Stripe Tee $34.99 and Mesh Insert Leggings $54.99 (left), Space Dye Crop Top $34.99 (centre), Mesh Insert Tee $49.99 and Leopard Panel Leggings $54.99 (right).
Another newcomer to the activewear market is Autograph with their range Active by Fiona Falkner. In sizes 14-26, this range also embraces the black and grey marle we’re loving this season plus pops of coral and leopard print. I’m a little torn for a favourite at the moment, but that crop top is leading the way so far.
Sacred Geometry Eva Print Tank USD $39.95 and Black Florence Capri USD $34.95 (left), Maria Bra USD $26.95 and Sacred Geometry Florence Capri USD $36.95 (centre), Black Marble Jane Print Bra $47.00 and Black Marble Simone Legging $69.00 (right).
For the last year or so, I’ve been wearing US activewear brand Rainbeau Curves almost exclusively. Their gear is available in US size 14-32 (that’s 18-36 in NZ sizing), and in New Zealand you can find it at Active Curves. They have a wide range of styles and do a number of colourways every season, so this is an activewear brand that is very much catering to the fashion side of things as well. The sacred geometry print is a firm favourite and I highly recommend their leggings, which are very high waisted and comfy to wear.
Meagan Kerr also writes at This is Meagan Kerr.
Images supplied.