Hip & Healthy: When Fitness Meets Fashion

Cotton tees and mesh shorts be gone. Finally there are more workout apparel options than old t-shirts and baggy sweatpants. At first, my transition to proper workout gear just meant upgrading to moisture wicking fabrics and clothes with pockets for keys. But over the last few years there has been a fitness fashion revolution. Lululemon first introduced me to fitness clothes that flatter the body and make me feel feminine and confident--even when I am dripping with sweat.  

Now I consider not only the function of my workout gear, but the style too. So many times I run errands before hitting the gym or go to coffee straight from a run, so it’s great that so much of the workout gear popping up in stores lends itself to a nonstop, multitasking lifestyle. Cute ruffled capris only need a leopard print turtleneck or a draped merino wool hoodie to take them from treadmill to the juice bar. 

Summer fitness fashion is pretty easy to figure out, cute running skirts and fun tanks, but winter apparel is a bit trickier. To get the expert opinion on the latest cold weather options, I spoke with "Runner’s World"  Executive Editor, Tish Hamilton.  Her “Fastinista” column dishes on the latest running fashions, but of course, nothing makes the magazine if it’s not functional as well as stylish.  

Hamilton explained that one of the main changes in fitness fashion is color. Bright, bold colors and prints are showing up alongside, and maybe even in front of, the basic blacks and grays. Hamilton suggests looking for rouching, moisture wicking merino wool tops and patterned leg warmers to add some flair to your winter apparel.  While it can be tempting to try and save money on cheaper brands, Hamilton suggests spending a little more for higher end outfitters, such as Lululemon, Athleta, Patagonia and Runningskirts, who will offer you style as well as “functional details” such as extra hidden pockets, detachable sleeves and light weight, but warm fabrics. I love to look cute, but I can’t live without pockets to stash my keys, phone and a few emergency dollars.

With fashion, fit and practicality in mind, here are my favorite winter workout apparel picks:

Lululemon Turn Around Jacket. Once again Lulu has thought of everything, this quilted jacketed manages to be warm, but not bulky for a slim silhouette. It has zippered pockets for storage and reflective fabric for visibility, and if you get too warm, simply open the zipper vents. It’s a must-have for winter runners. 

Athleta Namaste Top. This top could be worn to brunch or the yoga studio.  The slouchy crowl neck adds style and the drawstring waist will keep it in place during downward dog.

Mums Pinkalicious Arm Sleeves. from RunningSkirts.com The delicate flower pattern proves there is nothing wrong with running like a girl, and the handy energy gel pocket makes it easy to store extra fuel for long runs.

Snakeskin Running Tights by Stella McCartney for Adidas.  These tights are good for a run or the runway. Fierce designer patterns and Adidas quality, it’s a win win. 

Asics GT2170s in Blue and Neon Pink. Lady Foot Locker has the best shoe brands in the wildest coolers.  I rarely stray from my favorite line of Asics, but finally I have some choice in color.  Crazy patterns and neon colors make sneaker shopping a little more fun.  

Lucy Yoga Siren Racerback. This cute workout top has a hint of whimsy with a rose print trim, but doesn’t slack on support with removable bra inserts. 

Champion Cotton-Rich Racerback Sports Bra.This bra provides the soft feel of cotton but still wicks away moisture to keep you dry.  This new line of bras comes in many colors, patterns and support levels, so they mix and match with your outfit and your workout. 

Melissa is a NYC resident and workout junkie. She keeps motivated to stay fit and active by trying out new workout classes, signing up for races, and keeping an eye out for a fun fitness challenge. She hopes to complete the New York City Marathon for the second time in 2011. Read more about her healthy adventures in New York City at her blog fitnessnyc.wordpress.com.

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