YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Workout wear

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Workout wear https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Wed, 10 Jun 2026 17:14:10 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php MicheleLee on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear/page/2#post-1161116 Sat, 08 Feb 2014 17:26:32 +0000 MicheleLee 1161116@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I love distance running to the point that my guest room closet is referred to as the running closet. I have no issue paying for good shoes and the gear that I need. Fit and performance of the fabrics is crucial. Looks is secondary but a lot of brands are incorporating bright colors which is nice. Anonymous on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear/page/2#post-1161114 Sat, 08 Feb 2014 17:15:11 +0000 Anonymous 1161114@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ The main exercise I do is running, so I have dedicated clothes for that because I can't think of anything I'd want to wear running that would work for anything else. I generally just get cheap stuff from Target or Old Navy because that works just fine for my purpose (which isn't exactly training for a marathon or anything). The only more expensive thing I have is <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.oiselle.com/shop/bum-wrap">this</a> for really hot days because I got really sick of choosing between short-shorts that rode up and capris that felt like way too much fabric. Oh, and my shoes, because that's something I didn't want to skimp on and regret it later. I worry about flattery only to the point that I don't want to wear anything that I'd feel really self-conscious or ugly in. For example, you may notice that the bottom I linked to strategically has a skirt on top to keep it from just being really short bicycle shorts. And I don't wear tops in super-bright fluorescent shades because I absolutely hate them on me, but I don't care if I'm wearing colors I just look kind of meh in. Karie on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear/page/2#post-1161046 Sat, 08 Feb 2014 15:02:13 +0000 Karie 1161046@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I do have dedicated workout wear, but they are mostly items I have made myself. I always wear a good sports bra (which I do not make myself) and good quality sneakers. Astrid on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear/page/2#post-1160979 Sat, 08 Feb 2014 07:10:23 +0000 Astrid 1160979@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I also have dedicated workout wear, but nothing fancy. I always wear a sports bra and one of three t-shirts I use for sports and sleeping. When I exercise at home I mostly just add some leggings, but I have some long and shorter sweatpants for being out in public. I probably need to replace the long pair soon. Ingunn on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear/page/2#post-1160967 Sat, 08 Feb 2014 06:37:33 +0000 Ingunn 1160967@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have dedicated workout wear, too. I'm very picky about the functionality of my sports bras and running shoes. I also prefer certain colors, not too much pattern and some color coordination. I will never go back to an ordinary cotton tee after trying wicking materials. Jeanie on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear/page/2#post-1160965 Sat, 08 Feb 2014 06:27:11 +0000 Jeanie 1160965@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Glad you are having fun with your capsule.  I do stick to a bit of figure flattery rules with workout wear keeping the need for the sport in mind.   I feel like clingy workout gear really emphasizes my hourglass figure more than day clothes so I have to be careful.   V-necks are a must for me.  However, I have to add a good sports bra and a long tank underneath to keep everything from popping out of the v-necks when doing downward dogs!   Laura (rhubarbgirl) on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1160860 Sat, 08 Feb 2014 03:14:59 +0000 Laura (rhubarbgirl) 1160860@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Wicking fabrics make a big difference for comfort, I have found. I've got some pants from Lucy that are definitely worth the higher than Target price. But the Champions line is pretty decent. I try to choose colors and silhouettes that are reasonably flattering on me, but comfort and functionality are also important. Sharon on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1160770 Sat, 08 Feb 2014 01:02:45 +0000 Sharon 1160770@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have dedicated work-out wear. I look for clothes that give me freedom of movement, are cool to wear and don't feel horrible when I sweat. I have tried various brands, but now I just buy Lorna Jane because they are well made, use good fabrics and they last. I have tights that have still look good after two years of being washed at least once a week. I wear colours that I would never wear in my normal wardrobe (workout clothes seem to be designed in garish colours) and I don't follow figure flattery guidelines. Tights don't hide much, and I have to wear tops with high necks if I don't want all the bros at the gym getting a view of my chest when I bend forward in front of the mirrors shemarie on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1160675 Fri, 07 Feb 2014 23:18:24 +0000 shemarie 1160675@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Fun to read all of these responses! Like Janet and others, I am a BIG TIME sweater and my top priorities are functionality, wicking fabric, sun protection, and comfort.  $$$ go to shoes (or else I inevitably lose toenails or get horrible blisters from running and hiking). Then everything else can be found on sales or clearance...usually Nike, Under Armour, prAna, Gapfit, Adidas...fabrics have improved so much.  I like figure-flattery if I can find it (LOL @ Suz...small chest with compression and it's all over indeed!), though I've never been able to understand how all the beatutiful people worked out at my gym and finished with yet perfect hair, perfect make-up, and $$$ workout wear? When I leave, I'm a hot, red, drippy mess.  But I have to repeatedly stop and remind myself:  Wait, THAT's what the gym's for, isn't it?! :-)  sarah on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1159331 Thu, 06 Feb 2014 14:46:29 +0000 sarah 1159331@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I absolutely wear dedicated workout gear - but I go to pilates 3x/week and when I work out aerobically, I'm like Janet - I sweat like crazy. I have a lot of Alo and Zella gear, and I've been very happy with it. ladell on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1159300 Thu, 06 Feb 2014 14:13:43 +0000 ladell 1159300@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Yes to dedicated exercise attire.  Not so much concerned with figure flattery as I am with comfort and modesty. Have a variety of shorts/pants/capris in different lengths and for a variety of purposes; tops in sleeveless, ss and ls. cold weather gear consists of those mittens that have flaps to reveal fingers (so I have dexterity to operate mp3, hats with ear flaps and thermal tops and bottoms to wear under compression items. Usually do not spend much on these items.  I do however, shop intentionally for good sports bras and for running shoes.  Really should go through what I already own and discard some and identify needs that are surely present. I do occasionally lounge in my workout attire.  Suz on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1159275 Thu, 06 Feb 2014 13:29:37 +0000 Suz 1159275@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Dedicated workout wear for sure! It really helps me. It's not like I have an extensive and fashionable looking workout capsule, but I DO have a highly practical one for my purposes. And for me, that's key. My priorities are comfort in varying temperatures, freedom of movement and avoidance of injury.  I often pick up my stuff at Winner's (discount store, like the American TJ Maxx) or at Mountain Equipment Coop (a Canadian gear store) on sale -- they sell the major workout brands. I don't really look at the maker's name -- I just check that the fit is good for me.  I have a couple of good bras, a pair of crop pants, a couple of shorts, running tights, and dedicated sweat-wicking tops. Also for cold weather, base layers, mid-layers, and then I have stuff for rainy weather and puffers for the cold, plus snow hiking boots. And yoga pants.  As for "figure flattery" -- I don't really think about that. Since workout bras compress my already tiny bust, I sort of lose any figure anyway! :)  Anonymous on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1159231 Thu, 06 Feb 2014 10:53:46 +0000 Anonymous 1159231@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Er, um, I've only recently bought some Next joggers and a sports bra. I don't work out.... but I should Alexandra on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1159229 Thu, 06 Feb 2014 10:39:50 +0000 Alexandra 1159229@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Dedicated workout wear, definitely. In hot weather, I wear a tank top (with built-in bra) and a skort. When it's cooler, I switch to a regular sports bra with a short- or long-sleeved performance top and long yoga-style performance pants. Summer stuff is from Athleta, winter stuff is Nike. The most important things to me are comfort, temperature regulation, and injury avoidance. So comfy workout clothes and shoes that fit well, specialty socks and performance knits that wick away sweat and stay in place, and a snug bra. Then all I have to pay attention to is where and how I'm running. Louise on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1159220 Thu, 06 Feb 2014 09:27:06 +0000 Louise 1159220@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thanks for the insights ladies it's interesting (I'm nosy) to hear your thoughts x Gigi on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1159076 Thu, 06 Feb 2014 02:15:52 +0000 Gigi 1159076@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have a few pieces of workout wear--a pair of shorts, a pair of shorts with a skirt over the top (like a tennis skirt but shorter), a sports bra, and a tank top. All of these are 100% nylon, I think. I got them all from American Eagle because I didn't want to spend an arm and a leg on workout wear, and I also needed very small sizes, which they carry. Sometimes I just wear an old pair of shorts and an old T-shirt and an old pull-on cotton bra that can double as a sports bra. I do try to stick to the rules of body type when buying, but I don't go overboard and am not nearly as picky as with regular clothes. I do also try to stick to the colors that I know flatter me. Dee on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1159063 Thu, 06 Feb 2014 02:02:27 +0000 Dee 1159063@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I do buy dedicated workout wear. I like any of the wicking tops by UnderArmour for basic gym workouts and all the yoga gear from Athleta. I'm less concerned with figure flattery, but I do make sure tops don't gape weirdly (small bust) and pants are cropped or short enough not to drag (petite) and possibly get caught while using the bike or elliptical.  Classically Casual on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1159046 Thu, 06 Feb 2014 01:47:39 +0000 Classically Casual 1159046@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I think it's easiest to acquire workout wear over time as one learns exactly what is needed to perform well.  I do believe in "coming dressed to play".  The correct shoes, bra, degree of breathability for the activity/temp make all the difference.  That said, I love Zella bottoms for gym workouts and walking.  They're comfortable, look good, and last forever if you take care of them.  And there's unfortunately a new Athleta store near me, and so far everything from them has been great.  Shoes are really individual.  Personally, I try to look reasonably decent, but I care more about the workout. Linda on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1159034 Thu, 06 Feb 2014 01:35:17 +0000 Linda 1159034@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Oh, and YES, I definitely "suit up" even if I'm doing yoga at home -- it just seems to help me be serious about the workout and feel good as I move through the poses. Linda on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1159031 Thu, 06 Feb 2014 01:34:27 +0000 Linda 1159031@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Haha, funny b/c on the RunnersWorld online forum, there is a kind of reverse-snobbery about how you can't be quite a serious competitor if you are too well-dressed!! I definitely began accumulating separate workout wear when I began running, because I, too, sweat a lot when I run.  If you don't change and air sweaty workout wear out promptly, you risk both social ostracism but also, sometimes, health impacts. I do like wearing things that don't look as though they're the last things left in the drawers.  I try to buy mostly things in a couple of color families and yes, I DO sometimes consider whether they match my shoes.  I gravitate toward things that offer some camouflage of my middle which is now my problem spot.  I don't have a problem with my legs so I'll gladly wear shorts or cropped pants unless the temps are low when I like my winter running pants.  I splurged on those, although they're a running store brand (Roadrunner Sports).  I keep an eye out for good deals, in workout clothes, because when you wear them a lot and sweat a lot, you sometimes want to replace them often.  I've found good buys at REI, as well as Kohl's, and Target, and AmericanEagleOutfitters.  I also am willing to spend seriously on shoes, since when you run, you're pounding on your poor feet a lot.  I do yoga and some pilates and weight training too, but all of those are pretty forgiving about what to wear, and I can usually wear a sports bra with a burnout tee over just fine.  Since my bottom half is shapely, I don't mind lounging or doing errands in yoga pants, in fact, I find them extremely comfy and pretty nice-looking, when I wear the right top pieces. Emily, twinsies, I bought a pair of galaxy leggings (el cheapo, from F21!!) for running in -- it doesn't always get really cold here.  Too funny!  Actually, if you don't need super heavy-duty wear, F21 has had quite a few things that work for yoga or low-impact kind of workouts.  I've also always heard that Victoria's Secret sports bras are amazing for some women runners, I haven't tried them yet. Glory on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1158994 Thu, 06 Feb 2014 00:30:30 +0000 Glory 1158994@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have dedicated work out wear. I have 3 pairs of runners which I rotate, several pairs of slim fit capris and an assortment of tank tops. Also sport bras. The best capris I have found are from Costco of all places. They have the slim fit style in right now.  Beth Ann on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1158983 Thu, 06 Feb 2014 00:11:54 +0000 Beth Ann 1158983@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I definitely buy "real" workout clothes.  Since I"m on a budget, I put the biggest dollars into shoes, and buy my workout gear at Kohl's and JC Penney.  If I were a little more financially endowed (lol) I would be all over Athleta in a heartbeat.  That said, I'm found that I like my pants to be semi-fitted, but with a drawstring in the waist, otherwise they threaten to slide and reveal more than my fitness prowess!  The most important thing about a workout capsule is to wear it --- vigorously and often! ATLynn on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1158976 Thu, 06 Feb 2014 00:05:37 +0000 ATLynn 1158976@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ When I started working out 3-5 days a week, I figured out really quickly that I feel better about going to the gym if I look pulled together vs. wearing sloppy oversized crop pants and boxy man tees.   I only do laundry once a week and can't repeat workout clothes (I sweat) so I stocked up on Old Navy compression capris (love these, under $20 w/ discount codes), shaped target tees sized up to cover some of the squish, and  Reebok dance leggings from JCP (love these because they have a tie at the waist and don't fall down when I jump or run).   I spent less than $200 on a capsule of decent quality, good looking items that make me feel good when I walk in the gym.  Mo on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1158951 Wed, 05 Feb 2014 23:29:31 +0000 Mo 1158951@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Oh, forgot I bought a proper triathlon set by Zoot when I did my race almost 6 years ago and am hoping to finally repeat the same race this July.  Glad to have it on hand - you don't want to mess with not having the right stuff for that kind of event IMO. Helena on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1158948 Wed, 05 Feb 2014 23:23:26 +0000 Helena 1158948@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I just created a workout capsule; however, I used inexpensive pieces from good old Target and they are working just fine. I'm not big into spending a fortune, although if I needed something particular for safety or was a top-level performer at something then I would invest. It's just a few fitness classes for me so a few basics do the job! Mo on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1158943 Wed, 05 Feb 2014 23:20:09 +0000 Mo 1158943@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Ha to Janet's, I'd never leave the house if worried about flattery in my workout wear!  Kinda the same here.  I try and find stuff I like the look of but I usually end up in what's most functional for running in the heat. yesterday I wore my new orchid tank that's kinda long over my Nike shorts that ride up and become kinda short, with a standard bra under a racerback.  Not the best look but with heat index 89, it worked.   I ditto the best shoes (as a runner) and I wear sports bras, but am not large chested so it's not imperative to have the 'ultimate' support.  The rest of the clothing just needs to wick well and not chafe at the seams.  I have Adidas, Brooks, Champion tops, Nike pants, Reebok shorts, whatever I find on sale at TJ Maxx basically!    At home I'll do push ups and whatever in my PJ's or skirts or what I have on at the moment.  Yoga I wear my prAna stuff, but I haven't gone in a long time.  The instructor here rightly mentioned that I could lead the class, which is why I do it on my own time, but don't have the discipline, and so have not been doing it.  Argh.  the classes in Tahoe push me and I am willing to pay for them. MsMary on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1158941 Wed, 05 Feb 2014 23:18:55 +0000 MsMary 1158941@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Yes, definitely, to the good bra and good shoes. My workout pants needed replacing recently and rather than go back to Target and buy what was on clearance, I splurged on some very-expensive-for-me-for-workout-gear knickers from Athleta and OMG!!  SO MUCH BETTER!  They're comfortable, my rear end looks round instead of flat, and they have a zippered pocket in the back so if I need to go on an outdoor hike I can still carry my keys and phone and credit card. Generally I do wear regular t-shirts while working out, rather than dedicated workout-gear shirts.  I have several with my gym's logo on them, which I really like.  Also I like to collect them when I travel and I wouldn't wear them on the street, so I wear them in the gym instead. Edited to add I'm in the gym almost every day  so I want to look and feel good.  And I am having a high happiness factor with my new workout pants!  :) Janet on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1158936 Wed, 05 Feb 2014 23:09:14 +0000 Janet 1158936@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I need dedicated workout wear -- when I workout, I sweat. A lot. These days it's mostly biking and running, so I do wear specific gear for those activities.  Good supportive sports bras are critical for me, as are good shoes -- I replace my running shoes every 6-12 months, but I have an unusual wear pattern to my shoes because of supination and legs that are two different lengths, so if I let my shoes get too worn down I will hurt myself running if I'm training for any kind of distance.  If I worried too much about figure flattery for workout gear, I would likely never leave the house. Bike shorts and running pants are not necessarily a good look on me, but I gotta have 'em. I do try to find cute things that I don't mind wearing for quick errands after or before a workout.  My new favorite source is Under Armour -- they're making some nice things these days, and it's nice to support a local startup since they're Baltimore boys. :-)  Anonymous on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1158934 Wed, 05 Feb 2014 23:02:47 +0000 Anonymous 1158934@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I try to incorporate working out with running errands, so don't wear workout wear. Besides I've never seen any that I like that well. I wear jeans and a tank or tee and athletic flats most days. I don't have enough up front to need a sports bra so just wear a regular one. Nothing seems to cause me to sweat, maybe why heat bothers me more these days. Besides, the gym I go to is like an icebox in the summer. Anonymous on "Workout wear" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/workout-wear#post-1158931 Wed, 05 Feb 2014 22:55:41 +0000 Anonymous 1158931@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I'm with Diana -- I'm all about the good sports bra (Freya) and good shoes (New Balance for me, everyone is different).  And with my fussy feet, I need insoles, too.  (Powerstep Pinnacle Insoles) I do love cute workout clothes, and I have a ton.  I like color on top and mostly black on bottom.  I'm a sweater!  My favorite brands are MPG, 90 Degree by Reflex, and Kyodan. I still have some Lululemon, but I don't plan to buy anymore.  Feeling very over them.