SPORTS BRA

TANK

TANK {on sale!}

Anyone who has said looking cute has to cost you a fortune was sorely mistaken.

This is especially true when it comes to workout apparel. I know the $110 Alo Leggings or $100+ Koral Sport Bras are super fun and eye-catching but with the Athleisure movement here to stay, finding reasonably-priced gear is easier than ever. The best part about everyone and their mom creating fitness pieces is that no longer are we forced to sacrifice quality for affordability. Gone are the days of Lululemon and Athleta ruling the female fitness apparel roost, although those giants aren’t going anywhere {and don’t get me wrong, my obsession with both is undeniable}. Instead, wallet-friendly retailers like Old Navy, Forever 21, Target and Victoria Secret have totally stepped up their game in this area. Major shopping hot spots like Nordstrom, Shopbop and Revolve have all also grown their workout wear sections and their inventory spans a wide range of price-points.

When it comes to Fitness apparel, I am the pickiest of the picky.

In all honesty, if I find a fabulous-fitting pair of capris that are $90, I will buy them. But that is also true if the tag says $9. I care so much less about what brand is stitched on the inside tag and so much more about what I feel when I put something on. I follow a strict ‘Rule of 3’ when it comes to purchasing new things to get my sweat on in: moisture-wicking, mobility and comfort. In terms of mobility I am looking for no movement restrictions, full range of motion and pieces that stay PUT. Typically for capris and leggings I gravitate towards high-waisted options so I do not have to worry about them falling down or sagging when I’m running or doing squats. If I fall in love with a tank or shorts because it ticks my three boxes, I usually buy the item in multiple colors. That’s actually a philosophy I would like to carry over into my regular wardrobe but it’s less justifiable. My thought process is that because I don’t do laundry every day and I can’t re-wear sweaty clothes, I need to have more than just a few options; since I can usually wear a pair of denim 2-3+ times before washing, I’m less likely to need 3 pairs of the same ones. Don’t judge me for my logic! 😉

I’m giving it to you straight.

Since this isn’t a sponsored post, you can rest assured I am only giving you opinions on things that I own/have owned and have done multiple workouts in. Along with 3 ‘Affordable Options’ –affordable in quotes because all of our incomes and spending capabilities are so different, so I’m giving you what I would deem affordable to me personally– I am also sharing 1 ‘Splurge’ in each category, as well as why I feel it’s worth the extra $$$. My point is, some ladies will spend more on a sports bra but really want to cut corners on tanks while others can drop extra money on leggings but seek out deals on shorts so I’m trying to cover a lot of area.

Sports Bras:

Save / Save / Save / Splurge

{*My favorite is #2 and I have it in 3 colors. I love the support & style and it’s gotten me through so many high-intensity workouts! The splurge option is steep for a basic sports bra but I promise, if it’s in your budget, you will NOT be disappointed; it’s extremely comfortable, breathable and the color combos are totally unique*}

Tanks:

Save / Save / Save / Splurge

{*My favorite is again #2. I have it in the yellow and wish I could wear it EVERY day. I paid full price, which I still think is pretty reasonable, but now that it’s barely $20 I am adding the teal & coral colors to my drawers. I love the material and the narrow racer back gives me tons of room while lifting. My splurge choice is by 1 of my absolute favorite fitness brands and this mesh singlet is everything. Would make a great gift!*}

Shorts:

Save / Save / Save / Splurge

{*#2 are my favorite Saves because they’re perfect for quick, short distance runs or long weekends on the trail. The length is just right and the cut works really well on my stockier build. The splurge options are actually my go-to workout shorts–along with THESE. I always end up with gift cards around my Birthday & Christmas and these shorts are what I purchase first.*}

Capris:

Save / Save / Save / Splurge

{*My top pick for capris are hands-down #1. The other two are great in their own way but something about the Zella brand has converted me to a cult-like follower. The waist band is slimming and with a slightly thicker fabric, they’re never see thru. My splurge choice are super feminine and equally as functional. I love how soft they are and find myself grabbing them for workouts AND for lounging around in.*}

Leggings:

Save / Save / Save / Splurge

{*Target has seriously upped their game which is why #3 is my favorite pair in this set. I love the mesh panels and the darker slate color is unexpected in a good way. They’re comfortable and sexy AND priced right. My splurge leggings are ones that I have in 3 colors–black, grey & navy–as well as 3 colors of the capris. MAJOR investment but they keep their shape workout after workout and are incredibly flattering!*}

Thank you to all you amazing ladies who flooded me with suggestions on new Workout Wednesday topics. I’ve got a list going and can’t wait to bring you some of my favorite body part-specific workouts, favorite pre & post-workout foods and so much more in the coming weeks. Let me know what else you’d like to see in the future!!! <3