Cute Workout Clothes

Really,  can you can look cute and sweat at the same time AND believe it or not, feeling cute is motivational. When I first embarked on my lose weight/feel healthy quest - I would go out in some comfy shorts and loose cotton t-shirts (a no-no for running). Mr. Man made the prediction that I would soon be investing in running clothes. I started researching what runners should wear with such articles as this... And then the below began to resemble me...



Phase 1:
I started noticing how the other runners dressed - I really liked the cute, colorful leggings but felt I was too heavy to sport them out in public. I found with shorts that I do not like them postage stamp size and I hate when they bunch up between my thighs.

First - the shoes - Brooks Glycerin is my go to

Second - running socks - my favorite are Thorlos experia

Then...
I found running shorts at Old Navy, I think they are more like bicycle shorts,  but I love the compression and the side panel/pockets are fab. The length is perfect me as well.  The side pockets hold my keys and cell phone with no problem. I cannot figure out why any of the work out pants do not have a place for your keys.



Phase 2:
My second purchase was a sports bra - I even ran once in the pants and just the sports bra - it was freeing. I was a tad self-conscious but it did make me envious of men and how they can run without a shirt. I prefer sports bras with the removable pads - I am not a big chested woman but have prominent nipples and do not want them pointing at folks while I am working out. I have bought some bras at Old Navy, JCPenny, Kohls, and Amazon. If I had to pick one - the TEK gear is the most comfortable and moisture wicking. I do prefer the ones for the A cup and have some for the B cup as well - just need the padding..



Phase 3:
For running pants my absolute favorite is JcPenney's Xersion brand - most of them have this cute, hidden, key pocket. I do not really have a preference on the length - warmer weather I do not wear the longer ones but still pair with a moisture-wicking tank and sports bra. Cooler weather, I top with a zip quarter pullover with the thumb holes. I initially thought they were weird but now love them - I got an Under Armour pullover for Christmas and it didn't have a thumb hole - that felt weird to me. So far I own pants in Under Armour and  Xersion. I love the tanks with cute sayings and bright pants (I like the bright bras too)




I feel more like a runner in a cute outfit which makes me more mentally prepared do my run/workout without thinking/comparing myself to others. I have always believed that how you FEEL sets the stage on how will DO.  Do you agree? What are your favorite workout clothes?