Two F Words I Love: Fitness & Fashion
I think this guy would make an awesome workout buddy.. (Source)
Sometime over the past few years, the fitness and fashion industries became linked. Perhaps no where is this more evident than athleisure boutique Bandier’s new flagship store which features Studio B, a space with daily classes taught by some of the most sought-after instructors in the fitness industry. From designers launching lines of athletic wear to more affordable companies including active wear in their offerings, athleisure seems to be much more than a passing trend.
Personally, I love the uptick in fashionable sweat sessions. Wearing something that I enjoy makes me feel more confident which directly translates to how I perform in my workout; I’m less likely to psyche myself out after hearing an instructor lay out a road map and I will do everything I can to push through those last eight counts (the slow counts) of jump squats. This is not to say that I place a premium on the superficial or that I always have my look together and judge anyone who doesn’t, far from it. I also fall on the Type-A side of the personality spectrum and always go into something demanding the best of myself. Rather, when I feel comfortable and like me, a feeling my clothing can play a large roll in, everything falls into place in a way that makes any task, no matter how difficult, seem that much more attainable #DressForSuccess. Having fun prints, multiple colors, different fabrics, and a variety of design elements like cutouts and mesh, allow me to express my personality. I also love seeing what others have chosen, what does their power suit look like? Looking at what others are donning and trying to read any shirts with words on them can also make for a great distraction when I’m really feeling the burn. If I’m staring at you in class it’s me, NOT you. You look great; I’m just (a) wondering if I can also pull off that pattern and (b) trying not to fall over.
Left: The infamous Tory Sport pants. Top right: I got these from Old Navy and I love them! They even have a cute ruching from the knee down, not sure how clear that is in the photo. Bottom right: Sometimes you need your Lulu and your colors.
Unlike a lot of fashion trends, what I think is so nice about leggings that can for from bar to barre is that they are offered at all price points. You don’t have to be able to shell out $135 for these pants (actually even if you want to, it will be a while before they get to you as allegedly sold out in one day); Old Navy and Forever 21 both have full lines. Even better, at least amongst the people I know, brands of athletic apparel really don’t matter to them. It’s all about fit, functionality, and fun. If they like a piece and it works, great, if not then pass. There’s no judgment on budget-friendly clothing, in fact I’ve witnessed the opposite. Perhaps that’s because ultimately the goal of these clothes is to allow us to each achieve our best (and let’s be real, they are going to get drenched in sweat). When we work out, we are trying to attain a goal and we need something that will light the fire to get us there, or at least closer to wherever there is. Energy is contagious, thus we want those around us to be on the same page, whether classmates in a group class or the person you’re secretly treadmill racing. Whatever crops bring you there are the crops for you, who cares what name is inside!
Confession: I might have ordered this Lululemon bra top while editing this post. I have a gift card so it doesn't count and it will make me feel good, right?... Or it might get returned; this really needs to be tried on.
Do splurge, save, or both on athleisure? What's your favorite brand? Dressing for success, yay or nay?