My blonde-haired sister-in-law Danielle pulled up in our driveway in her Nissan Xterra. Climbing out of the car, I noticed her stylish oversized sunglasses and perfectly coiffed ponytail. She was dressed in running clothes – striped shorts, a white t-shirt layered over a tank top, and silver running shoes. Ever the height of fashion, she looked like a celebrity just on her way to or from a workout at some posh club. She pulled her adorable, blue-eyed baby out of the car and smiled my way.
I smiled back, “Did you just come from working out?“
She laughed, a warm and glittery laugh with a tinge of nervousness in it, “No. I just thought I’d wear this in case I get a chance to exercise.”
The sheer brilliance of that statement has stuck with me over the past few months.
Sometimes just getting dressed for exercising seems so exhausting…so, if you’re “ready to run,” you’re much more likely to do it.
I think I might start dressing in sportswear too. And not just ugly, torn yoga pants with a saggy bottom, mind you. I mean real workout clothes. Cute workout clothes. Something I would feel great about running around in the neighborhood in.
Like…
Viva Flare Pants ($68) from Brooks Running
These stretchy, supple pants have an extra-comfortable waistband and a flattering fit. They gently snug your hips and thighs, and then flare out at the bottom of the leg. Available in black or shadow, these pants will match with just about anything.
Dash T ($42) from Brooks Running
If you’re still exercising in plain, old cotton t-shirts, you should consider buying a breathable, moisture-wicking tee. They really are less sweaty and icky. This shirt comes with an “invisible” pocket for your house key, your debit card, or a few extra dollars. I would like this shirt even better if it were available in a bright, vibrant orange or a striking navy…and the tummy could be a bit more roomy for postpartum mamas. But, overall, it’s a great option. V-necks are the best.
Lite V-Neck Comfort Tee ($36) from Enell
If you’re a busty babe, you will likely appreciate Enell’s tee – designed specifically for curvy women. The silky, lightweight material has just a little extra room where you need it most, yet it glides over your body effortlessly. The shirt is only available in black, but I don’t mind that. Black is so basic, so classic, and…great for a “minimizing” effect.
YOUR TURN: What are your favorite workout pieces? Who is your fitness fashion inspiration?
WIN IT! One winner will receive each of the item’s listed above in the sizes/colors of her choice: Viva Flare Pants from Brooks Running, Dash T from Brooks Running, and Lite V-Neck Comfort Tee from Enell. To enter, leave any topic-related comment on this post prior to Wednesday, June 3 at midnight (Don’t forget to follow the rules…all generic comments like “Enter me!,” “Love it,” and “Cool stuff!” will be disqualified.).
*UPDATE* The winner is #7 Jen Mc. Congratulations!
Long hailed by Oprah, the 
WIN IT!
I don’t spend top dollar on very many apparel items.
I am actually rather curvy, a Marilyn Monroe type figure. And my stride is a little funny. And I run pretty slowly, one foot in front of the other, methodically.
***For more running inspiration, check out “The Gigantic Book of Running Quotations,” edited by Hal Higdon. The GIGANTIC (yes, it really is huge…as in, dictionary huge!) book features hundreds of quotes to inspire, challenge, encourage, and humor runners. I am a “quote collector” so I love having this book on my bookshelf. It really is motivating and would be a fantastic gift for any runner in your life. Only one thing could make it better: pictures. Maybe a few photos of Richard Whitehead or 
It’s been almost 10 weeks since my baby girl was born.
