I’ve been working out in one way or another since I was pregnant with my first child. I guess that was around the time I grew up and realized I had to take care of my health and that included moving my body. Since that time, I’ve pretty much stayed the same weight, but I find that I have to work a little harder now and eat a little less to maintain fitness. The good news is I’ve lost interest in binge eating on ice cream and cake so it’s a little easier to control my intake. Currently, I’m a runner, so I buy cute running outfits. I’ll get back into the gym when winter starts, so I’ll need some cute weight lifting and aerobic training clothes. I do love the way Lululemon looks but frankly I think they’re overpriced.

I wanted to share my favorite brands for workout gear. I’ll start with the pricier clothes that last a little longer and have more style. Click on the clothing item to go to the website if you’re interested in purchasing (I do not get any sales commissions from these companies), so I’m recommending these items just because they are something I would buy.

Affordable Workout Wear

Here are some cute ideas for workout outfits (completely affordable!) that you can click on and purchase from Amazon. (aff, links). There is something very sexy about an open back top — it’s a part of the woman’s anatomy that gets sexier the more she lifts weights:

Here’s some higher end workout brands that you may enjoy exploring. These were posted almost a year ago so these links are no longer working. But explore the brand online stores and see what’s new!

Adidas by Stella McCartney

You have got to shop around with this brand. Their clothes are higher end with sports bras @$60 Leggings @$80-100 Jackets @$100. But if you have the budget and the desire to own top of the line workout wear, go for it! However, you can find bargains. For instance these leggings, below, you can find online anywhere from $60 at Shopbop to $120 on Carbon38. Now, I don’t think this busy floral print with built-in white knee highs is for every body type, but if you want to make a fashion statement these are great! Most body types look best in a black full length legging.

They’ve also got cute tees like this slouchy tee that’s a mix of jersey and soft mesh. I love the way this structured tee flows over the midsection. Looks both comfortable and chic!

Yummie

Yummie makes shapewear, too, which I’ve talked about in previous shapewear blogs. I haven’t tried their workout clothes yet, but I’m sort of interested to try since they started as a shapewear brand. I’ll bet they’re pretty flattering! Check out this example with sexy mesh inserts, on sale for $48.

Beyond Yoga by Kate Spade

If you’re looking for a chic run-around-town in athleisurewear look, this adorable Kate Spade Neck Bow Jacket is for you. This is for someone who loves big bows and wants a dressy, put-together look.

I like the look of leggings + a slouchy sweater, especially for running errands after a workout. This short sweater could be worn over a longer workout top, as a layered look. It will make your legs look a mile long! The slouchy bordeaux-colored sweatshirt is my kind of style. It looks finished and polished but it’s so comfortable you can run around in it all day.

My best advice is to shop around for the sales (and almost *all* workout gear goes on sale eventually, as the trends change) Now that so many are in the athleisure game, it doesn’t make sense to be too loyal to any brand. So many have cute items. I love the online stores, HauteLook and Gilt for the latest looks. For instance, Electric Yoga is on sale now, with really well priced items: leggings @$30-50 and very cute workout tees as well. I might pick up a sports bra. 🙂

Also, people sell items New With Tags on eBay, so if you know your size and favorite brand, it’s a great way to get a smoking deal on a mistake someone made.

Now, on to a little less expensive and still stylish workout wear! I love Target. I trust them to sell a product that will be cute and hold up to actual workouts.

Target Mossimo Supply Co.

These mesh leggings in black are highlighted by two diagonal stripes. Super stylish! Pair with a favorite tee shirt for a walk around the neighborhood or add a cozy sweatshirt for relaxing around the house. This is a high rise waist which will keep your “muffin top” to a minimum. The lace shoulder sweatshirt is a feminine top for the leggings. And, how about that C9 Champion Legging designed for comfort and performance with the multi-colored color blocks? I would put these on and FEEL powerful and just plain cool! The low-waisted band is something I would be sure you’re comfortable wearing.

Old Navy

Old Navy is my go-to for the latest fashions at affordable prices. They have men’s, women’s, and kid’s departments, and they carry plus sizes and maternity, so it’s one stop shopping!

This lattice-back sweatshirt is ideal for a cold day workout as well as athleisurewear to run around town. Comes in many colors.

GAP

I wear GAP boyfriend jeans, ankle length trousers, and other bottoms. I think they make really well-tailored pants. I’ve never worn their athletic clothes, so I can’t vouch for them. But I love these colorful and sculpted workout pants. They are a bit pricey at $69.95 but if you buy during a sale you’ll get a great price. I tend to wear this mid-calf length most often because it gives me just enough coverage to stay warm while not being too warm and confining for a good run.

How do you stay in shape?

What’s your favorite workout outfit?