SEPTEMBER is to the summer what January is to Christmas, i.e. the month when we resolve to repair all the damage done by a sustained stint of overeating and abandoning our exercise plans.
Getting back on the fitness track can be an arduous task, but the Second New Year has two major advantages: First, it's not utterly freezing outside, so going for a morning run isn't quite so depressing, and second, all the autumn/winter sportswear collections have arrived, so you can treat yourself to some kit to boost your morale.
Here are six brands that make activewear so attractive, you'll be raring to get to the gym.
1. OW Fit
Brand new to the UK, Colombian brand OW Fit makes amazingly comfy, breathable leggings in a range of gorgeous prints, from minimalist marble to technicoloured abstract.
OW Fit Street Leggings, £60 (top, stylist's own)
2. Sundried
Used coffee grounds and plastic bottles are two of the materials recycled to make Sundried's activewear. The eco brand, which was founded by athletes and personal trainers, favours a sleek, sporty look with bright block colours and useful details, like hidden key pockets and thumb loops.
Sundried Grand Tournalin Women's Turquoise Hoody, £60 (reduced from £80); Ruinette Capris, £50 (shoes, stylist's own)
3. Fabletics
Fabletics (co-founded by Kate Hudson) continues to make some of the most stylish and on-trend fitnesswear around. This season, we're loving the ballet-inspired blush pink sets and rose gold fabrics.
Fabletics Sahar Two-Piece outfit, £61 (£48 for members; arm warmers, stylist's own
4. Lorna Jane
Bright stripes and pretty prints alongside basics in black and grey make Aussie brand Lorna Jane's AW17 collection easy to mix and match with your existing workout wear.
Lorna Jane Vital Sports Bra, £55; Pipeline Core F/L Leggings, £89 (available next week; other items, stylist's own)
5. Zakti
This season, Zakti has again collaborated with choreographer (and former Pussycat Doll) Kimberly Wyatt on an activewear collection which includes floral prints and dance-inspired designs. For when it gets really cold out, the range also features some standout padded jackets and gilets.
Zakti Metallic Padded Jacket, £79.99 (available September 19)
6. Avenue C
Caroline Lucey, founder of ActiveinStyle.com, obviously knows a thing or two about what to wear when you're working out, so it's no surprise her own sportswear capsule collection, called Avenue C, combines function and fashion beautifully.
Avenue C Cedar Tee, £39; Camrose Leggings, £59 (other items, stylist's own; ActiveinStyle.com)
