Nerd Alert: My Workout Outfits

There are women who go running in color-coordinated lululemon uniforms. They have bouncy ponytails and perfectly matching yoga-pant-sports-bra combos that make you think that maybe Pinterest is real life for some people. And then there is me. I have a lot of workout outfits. Very few of them are flattering.

It happens unexpectedly, as most terrible outfits do. I've done a lot of races and kept all the shirts, regardless of obnoxious color or logo. Bright purple shorts generally go on clearance more often than the sober-colored ones. I hate wearing sunglasses and hats make me overheat, so a visor is an obvious choice. Mizuno discontinued my favorite running shoes but sell a very similar version of trail shoes in bright blue. Where am I going to put my keys, ID, and phone? Fanny pack. Duh.

All of this adds up to a pretty dorktastic outfit.

No shame.

Now, some people can't handle the awesomeness of my running gear. I have had people refuse to leave the house with me because of just how ridiculous my outfit is. But here's the thing, I have never, ever, looked at someone running and thought, "Umm, girlfriend's top and shorts don't match. Why did she even leave the house?" To be honest, if I'm out running I'm usually focusing on my run and trying not to get hit by cars or bicyclists. I can summon the energy for a smile or wave to my fellow runner, but I rarely if ever register what they are wearing. And that's as it should be! Wear what you want! Plus, maybe my crazy color scheme helps said cars and bicyclists notice/not squish me. So this is really a matter of safety, not being too lazy to buy new gym clothes...

That said, races aren't as apt to give away pants and shorts as they are tech t-shirts and I could probably use some new bottoms. And maybe some tops that don't have a date, location, and distance on them. Here are a few that I'm currently coveting:

lululemon Run: Inspire Crop II

I am a recent convert to lululemon. But I bought a coupon for 5 hot yoga classes and realized I didn't have anything to wear. So I bought a yoga top and some shorts on clearance. Holy moly. I understand what the fuss is about now. I believe their yoga pants are knit from the down of angels' wings. They are so freaking comfortable. I can only imagine that their running crops are a similar level of magical. They are a little pricey for me, but if I save my monies maybe I can justify purchasing them as a birthday/Christmas gift for myself.

Ellie Sail Away Tank and Under the Sea Capri

I have never bought anything from Ellie, in fact I just learned about about the company and their Fit FashionistaClub where you choose any two pieces each month for $49.95. But let's just talk about this outfit for a second. Super cute. I don't think anyone would refuse to go out with me if I were wearing this. Plus, it's from their California Dreams collection. We are meant to be.

Under Armour Interval Running Singlet

Okay, it may not look like much, but I got an Under Armour running singlet for a race and this shirt is way comfy. Like, you can run miles and miles without chaffing comfy. I don't bestow this compliment on just any shirt. Plus in white it would match way more outfits than my bright blue UA singlet would.

Nike Tempo Track Short

I can't resist a good pair of purple shorts. They are just so much more fun than black. These aren't too pricey either and I could definitely stand to replace a few of my old pairs for this updated version.

So that's what I would buy to upgrade my workout wardrobe. What are your current favs?