by Nikki Duckworth
On a recent shopping trip a dear friend said something that really stuck with me.
On a recent shopping trip a dear friend said something that really stuck with me.
She said that cute workout clothes made her actually look forward to exercising.
It made perfect sense and I couldn’t believe that I hadn’t made the connection before! I’d forgotten about our conversation until I picked up new running sneakers a few weeks later. I’d gotten them for function, but I couldn’t ignore the stylish touches that made them feel special.
Whenever I run in them, I can’t stop staring at my feet! Even on the days that I realllly don’t feel like working out, I get more motivated just looking at my lovely sneakers sitting by the door. I know for sure now that my friend is really on to something.
When you think about working up a sweat doing it in style may not be your first thought, but there’s no reason why fashion and fitness can’t coexist.
With that in mind, here are 6 tips to keep you looking good before, during and after your workout:
Tip 1: Upgrade your gym bag
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| Nike Victory Bag |
Embrace your woman on the go status with a fashion forward gym tote. I’m thinking about a bag that not only looks good on your arm, but keeps you organized and can handle anything you throw at it. No time to shower right away? Stock your bag with face/body wipes, dry shampoo and deodorant to freshen up in a hurry.
Tip 2: Keep it fresh
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| Lululemon Nice Asana Jacket |
Speaking of freshening up, when it comes to workout wear wicking technology is your best friend. Moisture wicking materials pull sweat away from your skin to keep you feeling dry. Terms like Dri-fit, Dri-more and GoDry indicate that the fabric is designed to keep you from feeling like a sweaty mess no matter how hard you’ve just trained.
Tip 3: Make it personal
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| Old Navy Fun Fearless Free Tee |
Want to inject more personality into your workout wardrobe? Try grabbing a graphic tee or tank that speaks for you. Get one with a motivational saying that will inspire you and your gym mates. Added bonus: This kind of top holds its own style wise once the workout is done.
Tip 4: Work it out in prints and patterns
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| Women's UA Perfect Tight Fitted Capri |
Prints of all kinds are going strong in fashion. Carry the trend over to into a street and sweat friendly workout ‘fit. Just the thought of doing a downward dog or lunges in your favorite print makes the impending exercise seem more fun.
Tip 5: Add Color
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| Nike Free Run 5.0+ |
If prints aren’t your thing, play with adding a splash of color. Even it’s just a pair of sneakers or bright socks, color is sure to brighten your mood and fitness session. Of course if you’re feeling adventurous don’t be afraid to mix prints and colors!
Tip 6: Flatter your figure
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| C9 by Champion Women's Yoga Layering Top |
Put away the oversized sweats and opt for gear that better celebrates your body. You’re working hard to whip (or keep) that body in shape, why suit up in clothing that doesn’t fit or flatter for a workout?
Whether you’re working out to whittle your waistline, increase strength or just to maintain your health, using these tips to elevate your fitness look is no sweat at all.
Nikki Duckworth is a personal stylist armed with nearly a decade of fashion industry experience and a passion for helping women look their best. She loves helping clients banish frump to hone a sense of style that works for their real lives, real bodies and real needs over at NikkiDuckworth.com.
