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If you’ve spent any time scrolling through TikTok over the past few years, you’ve probably noticed—and taken sides—in quite a few clothing disputes between Gen Z and millennials. First, there was the debate about jeans: skinny or loose? Then, socks entered the mix: ankle or crew? Now, activewear is under fire: tight-on-tight or tight-on baggy?
In case you aren’t familiar with the latest lingo (no judgement here!), tight-on-tight workout clothing is exactly what it sounds like: a tight top paired with a tight bottom. For instance, a sports bra and leggings or bike shorts. Tight-on-baggy, on the other hand, is a tight top paired with a loose-fitting bottom or vice versa—like a form-fitting tank top with oversized sweatpants or a roomy T-shirt and leggings or bike shorts.
Millennials have been rocking the tight-on-tight trend for years, but recently, Gen Z has entered the chat with the tight-on-baggy look. And social media has thoughts: In a TikTok video championing tight-on-baggy style, the sound used says the following: “There’s a new age of women who no longer aspire to be skinny or skip meals. These women are fueled by food and lifting weights.”
This TikTok sound is in direct opposition to the messaging millennials grew up hearing—”nothing tastes as good as skinny feels,” supermodel Kate Moss infamously said in a 2009 interview. Or how Anne Hathaway’s character, Andy Sachs, in The Devil Wears Prada was considered “too big” at a size 6. It stands to reason that wearing nothing but skin-tight clothing upholds society’s obsession with being thin.
With that being said, millennials are having a tough time letting go of a trend they’ve worn for years. “I was today years old when I learned that my ‘tight-on-tight’ gym fit is out and makes me look old,” one TikTok user said. “Gen Z hates to see me coming in my tight-on-tight workout outfit,” another creator said.
Regardless of your preference, we put together a list of our 12 favorite pieces of activewear that encompass both trends so you can feel stylish and confident the next time you hit the gym.
6 tight-on-baggy pieces of activewear we can't get enough of
Lululemon Align 6-Inch High-Rise Short
$64
Lululemon is known for using stretchy, buttery soft material—and these bike shorts are no different. They stay put, thanks to the wide waistband that doesn't roll down. Plus, they feature a small, hidden pocket where you can safely store items like your credit card or house key.
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Slim Racerback Cropped Tank
$68
If tank tops are more your speed, rest assured this one from Beyond Yoga is the perfect pick. It features soft, stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric, plus a built-in sports bra, straps that won’t dig in, and UPF 50+ protection to shield UV rays from the sun. Additionally, this tank goes up to a size 4X.
Beyond Yoga LuxeFleece Wide Leg Pant
$118
These roomy, fleece mid-rise pants from Beyond Yoga were created to flatter every body shape. “Every style we produce is wear-tested on our in-house team to ensure the best fit in every size,” the website states. They’re great for low-impact activities like weightlifting or walking.
6 tight-on-tight pieces of activewear we love
Athleta Transcend V-Neck Crop Bra
$55
This soft, breathable sports bra from Athleta is stretchy and lightweight—perfect for low-impact activities like walking, yoga, barre, or Pilates. Not to mention, this bra stretches to fit any body type and maintains its shape throughout your entire workout. Plus, it’s made with UPF 40+ protection.
Athleta Salutation Stash High-Rise 7-Inch Short
$41
41% off
These supportive bike shorts are the perfect length: Not too short but not too long. They’re super soft and have two pockets that are big enough to hold your phone, credit cards, and keys—perfect for anyone going for a walk or run outside needing to carry the essentials. These shorts go up to a 3X.
Nike Zenvy Rib Longline Sports Bra
$60
This Nike sports bra is size-inclusive and comes in two size ranges: standard and plus. The standard size goes up to a 2XL and the plus size goes from a 1X to a 3X. Its ribbed material is extremely on-trend, and the bra moves with you during any activity you choose to wear it during.
The bottom line
Whether you prefer the tight-on-tight or tight-on-baggy trend when it comes to activewear, there are options out there for everyone. At the end of the day, fashion trends come and go, so wearing what you feel most comfortable in matters most. As long as you get a good workout in, who cares what anyone else thinks!
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