Happy New Year and welcome to 2013! I’m hoping everyone’s holidays were absolutely fabulous and if they were anything like mine, you overindulged in plenty of food and drink. And now that can only mean one thing – time to hit the gym to drop those holiday pounds and start those New Year’s resolutions.
Hitting the gym can be tough, but looking fabulous while breaking a sweat doesn’t have to be and investing in some new fitness gear is always an extra little motivator to get that workout in. So here are 10 great items to get your fitness on in style!
T by Alexander Wang Knit Hoodie, $285. This hoodie may be on the pricier side, but it’s worth it because of how incredibly functional it is. It’s loose and baggy, which lets you layer your workout gear under it, and it’s incredibly fab so it will easily transition you from gym to errands/lunch/whatever in a snap. And an added plus is that it’s long so that it looks more “tunic-y” for running around doing whatever you need to get done so you don’t look entirely like you just finished a good workout. Hoodies are perfectly casual to wear to your workout, but I like to invest in ones that look just as great outside the gym as they do inside and this is definitely one of them.
Old Navy Adjustable-Strap Sport’s Bra, $11.50. You don’t need to spend an arm and a leg on a sports bra, especially when no one sees it half the time (unless you’re one of the lucky ones who has washboard abs and loves showing off your hard work in the gym – in that case, I’m jealous!). BUT, why not try investing in a couple bold colors and show off under a sheer/lightweight top? Rock this under a white tee or try pairing under a black or gray semi-sheer for an added pop of color. My only major tip here: make sure whatever bra you purchase fits well and provides the support you need.
Nike Free Advantage Print Women’s Training Shoe, $105. And of course we’ve got to talk about shoes! New trainers are always one of the best (if not the best!) purchase when starting a new fitness routine. Why not pack some serious punch with this bold pair? This fun hued shoe will definitely lift your spirits and will look awesome with the best and worst of your workout gear. If you’re looking for something more unique, try the NikeID store – there you can create custom styles of your favorite shoes to really make you stand out.
BDG Brushstroke-Patch High-Rise Legging, $29. Leggings are great to workout in – they don’t bunch, they don’t get in the way, and they’re comfortable. Since they’re such an essential, why not mix it up a bit and buy a pair or two in a funky color or print. Throw these leggings on for a Saturday morning yoga class and then pair with a sweater or henley to meet your girlfriends for coffee and breakfast after – a great transition piece.
Eberjey Heather Pant, $69. And since we’re talking about pants, the sweat pant has to be discussed. Just as much as leggings are essential to your workout wardrobe, so is their polar opposite. Not only are these sweats chic (well, as chic as sweats can get) but they look incredibly comfy too. Use these as some extra warmth to take you to and from the gym and paired with those awesome Nikes these will transition you into errand running while still looking fab.
JOE’S JEANS Cleo Tank, $22. Right now is a great time to buy fun and bright basic tanks for discounted prices. After holiday sales are still going strong, so why not pick up a few basics to add to your fitness gear. What’s great about these basics in comparison to some traditional workout wear is that 1) They’re usually much more comfortable. These basics are light and soft so they’re great if you’re looking for something of the sorts. And 2) They’re much more fashionable and come in a variety of styles (why not try something with graphics on it) and colors that you can’t get with fitness gear. Take advantage of the sale now (and why not pick up a couple extra for your everyday wardrobe).
Jonathan Adler Arcade Ear Buds, $20. Music is a great way to get pumped up during your workout and also a great way to add a little touch to your gym ensemble. There are a TON of really fun, really fab headphone/ear buds out there (my Lady Gaga beats are my fave) and they surprisingly really do add to your fitness mood! Pick anything from patterns to crystals to crazy colored full on headphones – whatever you choose you’ll definitely make a great statement.
Longchamp Personalized Le Pilage Tote, $145. Life can be a bit hectic and sometimes you don’t have the luxury of running home before or after you hit the gym, forcing you to lug your shower supplies and a change of clothing around during the day. This Longchamp bag is a great option because it can easily fit all your essentials and the oversized handles make this tote easy to carry around. It also comes in a variety of colors and can be personalized. You can also carry it as a purse on your off days, making it a great investment.
Threshold Global Bath Towel, $7.99. Towels, for me, are an essential for when you’re literally breaking a sweat. Regardless of the intensity of your workout, sweat happens, so invest in a towel that will keep your brow dry at the gym. I like bold patterns for mine, mainly so it’s easy to remember which are for home and which are for the gym when doing laundry or grabbing one while running out the door.
Tasha Skinny Leather Head Wrap, $20. If you already have headbands, definitely try using them at the gym. If you don’t, invest in one. Why, you ask? Because not only will this help keep bangs and fly-aways out of your face, it will help you style your hair a little bit when heading into the office, to meet friends for lunch, or to run errands when you’re short on time. Touch up your pony or short cut by re-applying the headband after your workout, or carry a comb and tease the hair at the crown of your head after spraying with some dry shampoo to give you some added volume for a more sophisticated look.
—–
So there you have it – 10 items that will have you looking fit and fab. If you already have a good supply of workout gear, why not treat yourself to a new item to make getting dressed for the gym more exciting. If you’re starting a new routine and are limited on workout gear, start slow. Invest in some key basics and add as you go. Good luck on your fitness in 2013!
xoxo,
Emiko
Emiko Vaughn is a personal stylist and wardrobe from Cleveland, OH. She currently owns and operates personal styling company Lageson & Vaughn with her business partner, Kirsten Lageson.
Find her here:
www.emikovaughn.com
twitter.com/emikovaughn
pinterest.com/emikovaugh