Style Flash From DressZing: Workout Wardrobe

New York Incubator Member Susan Sommers of DressZing offers tips on how to look good while working out.

My Secret Workout Weapon

Happy New Year. Since January is the month when many people resolve to lose weight and tone up, I thought I'd share my secret with you for sticking to a workout plan.

 

Although I like the results of exercise, I hate to do it. For the last six months though, I've been addicted to spinning. The classes I attend mix cardio, flexibility and strength to the best music around. While finding a great class is essential for staying with a plan, it's not my secret.

 

My exercise outfit is. When I like what I wear and in it, look like the athlete I'd like to be, I'm more apt to work out. My favorite brands are Lululemon. Nike, Adidas, Moving Comfort and Champion. But there's a lot of good stuff out there at all price levels.

 

So guys throw out those old gym shorts and ragged top and ladies, that pair of old tights and baggy T-shirt. Get yourself some cool gear and it will make all the difference. Some ideas:

• Go techno: Look for clothes made of high-tech fabrics that wick (keep the moisture off your skin). Nike has a fabric called Dri-FIT: blends of cotton and polyester and polyester and spandex that keep you cool and dry; other brands have different mixes. Avoid pure cotton. It absorbs sweat, becoming a sodden mess when wet.

• Get sleek: Select a look that skims your shape, rather than hiding it. The outfit doesn't have to encase you like a sausage, but it shouldn't be baggy and shapeless.  For women, bootcut tights are chic and flattering, topped with a fitted tank. For men, think Lance Armstrong: sleek bicycle shorts with a tank top.

• Spotlight your assets: Consider cut and proportion when selecting workout wear. If you have great calves, bicycle shorts are the answer; great arms, go sleeveless. (If you don't like your arms and can't find a top with sleeves, buy a long-sleeved exercise T and shorten the sleeves to just below the elbows). Always wear supportive undergarments... they will also visually perfect your body.
  

• Color up: All black is sexy and slimming, however a burst of color can really brighten your mood. Think about black bottoms with a colorful top.

• Pack it in:  Get a good-looking gym bag to carry all your stuff and always stock it with a clean outfit and socks. 

Whoops. Gotta go to spinning class. I have on black cropped bootleg tights with a semi-fitted Lululemon dusty pink tank, which extends over my hips to elongate my torso. Best, I got it on sale.