Working out and being active is a big part of my routine. I’ve come to love getting up early, throwing on my workout clothes, and moving my body. Trust me, ten years ago that was NOT the case! Over these past seven years, I dedicated myself to making healthy movement a habit. I focused on consistency, not perfection.
When I first started working out, I wore whatever outfit that was already in my closet. But once I committed to staying fit, I began to invest in key pieces and I started to find outfits and brands that made me feel good which encouraged me to continue to show up for myself. As cheesy as it may sound, having workout clothes that you really love can really motivate you to get your sweat on!
My workout clothes, or what I lovingly refer to as my FIT ‘fit on IG stories, might be a higher-end brand, or it may be a really inexpensive find from somewhere like Amazon or Forever 21. This probably goes without saying, but after seven years I have learned that quality matters. Many pricey leggings I have invested in have long outlasted my bargain finds.
PRO TIP: I bought my first pair of expensive leggings after reaching a specific fitness goal. This makes it really fun and memorable! Read more about this in my post about creating habits that stick.
So let’s get into how I found what works for me. I want to share this part of my journey so you understand, it’s a process! Every trend doesn’t work for everyone – try new things and find what feels best on YOUR body.
I’m a proud small chested girl and I’m lucky that I can wear pretty much any style top, BUT I fell in love with high-neck and crop top sports bras during my postpartum fitness journey.
For obvious reasons, the high-neck sports bras made me feel secure and able to just focus on the workout – not on whether things were falling out or getting uncomfortable. The cut is super flattering on your shoulders too, so that’s a plus!
What began as a new nursing mama necessity became a really fun style trend and I find myself choosing this type of sports bra more often than others.
Let me walk you through my fav workout clothes!
I usually go with all ONE color and a splash of pattern.
This first workout outfit is definitely one of my favorite combos. These leopard leggings were a splurge but I have been wearing them once a week for YEARS. They are high-waisted and not too hot for an outdoor Florida sweat-sesh. The brand is Onzie and I always find this brand at Nordstrom.
I paired it with a simple black crop top sports bra. I love any kind of detailing on a timeless piece and mesh does this for me. This bra gives me the high neck + detailing at the same time. This sports bra is by Glyder [a subscription box brand I’ve come to love] but is such a popular style.
Depending on the workout, I may just wear leggings and a black sports bra. I’ll often complete the look though with a loose-fitting muscle tank, which is usually the same color as my leggings or sports bra. This is a little of a splurge tank from Alo Yoga, but again, the quality is great and I get so much use out of it. There are many alternatives for this style shirt in a ton of price ranges.
If I’m feeling extra feisty, I’ll throw on a leopard headband [soulvation society] and call it a day. I get a lot of my headbands from small shops on Instagram like Ace Revolution, Soulvation Society but also really like JUNK headbands too.
This layered outfit is so simple – but does the trick for me whether I’m doing barre, spin, weightlifting, or interval training workouts.
I’m pairing my ALL TIME fav leggings – the Leopard High Rise 7/8 Takara Legging from Carbon38. These are a definite splurge and I’ve never met a legging I love more. The length is perfect for my shorter legs. The waist is high with a thick band that helps you feel supported while the rest of the legging fits just right.
I love pairing these leggings with my black Adidas shoes. Fun story, these are school-age boy’s shoes. I bought them so I could match my son Roux and they didn’t make them in women. Don’t be afraid to size down and shop the boy’s sections if you can!
I’m wearing a crop top sports bra that zips up the back. I would only recommend this top to women who have a smaller or more athletic chest – only because the sides cut in a little narrow and may not work well for support during your actual workout. BUT, my ladies in the small girls club, you’ll love it! It’s by Zella and I have been wearing it for years!
That’s my basic black layer with a splash of leopard.
Next, I’d layer another muscle-style tank on top – but this time I chose rainbows. It seems like an obvious choice. This tank is by Spiritual Gangster. It’s just the right amount of happy vibes for me.
I paired it with a cute pink headband from Soulvation Society and a little fohawk braid.
On chillier mornings, I usually start my workout with a pullover of some kind. This white one by Adidas is a good pick. It always comes off after my warm-up, but the layer is cute and gets me going!
If I didn’t sweat that much or [real life] don’t have time for a full-on shower yet – I might just put that pullover back on and now I’m ready for a quick errand or mama life.
What are your go-to workout clothes? Let me know in the comments!
