Fashion Friday: Classy Workout Clothes

Once Jan.1st hits the gyms become packed, people buy a brand new pair of running shoes to kick off the start of a new program and no new workout commitment would be complete without the introduction of some new workout gear. There's something about the investment of all that newness (although not essential) that makes one feel ready to tackle their fitness goals. You might as well look good while sculpting a brand new body, right?

A classy woman puts her best effort into all that she does including how she presents herself to the world in her daily work life, time spent out on the town, at home as well as in the gym. While it's not essential to have a new workout wardrobe (and in some cases these may be items that don't fit into your current budget), it is essential to look put together instead of frumpy using what you already own. Too many times I've seen women working out in what appears to be their man's sweats. They look to be about 2 sizes too big (perhaps an attempt to hide the weight they wish to shed) not realizing that this makes them look larger than they actually are not to mention sloppy and as if they have no sense of pride in their appearance. I personally don't even own any of the aforementioned "sweats" always opting for more form-fitting fitness attire which allows me to focus on and see the muscle group I'm working.

Depending on how often you plan to work out, it's important to have the right amount of workout gear, because after a super sweaty session, everything needs to go straight into the washing machine, re-wearing is not an option even if you only lifted weights and don't "feel" sticky and sweaty. Gym clothing is notorious for breeding bacteria and you don't want that against your skin as it can cause irritation, breakouts and infections not to mention that it's just plain gross, so it's best to take it off as soon as possible, get showered and into clean clothing.

If you're planning to work out 3-5x per week and wash laundry fairly regularly you can get away with purchasing less workout gear.

Essential Workout Gear:

(2) pairs of full length yoga pants for cooler weather
(1) pair of capri length yoga pants for warmer weather
(2) pairs of running shorts for summertime runs and cardio workouts
(1) pair of quality running shoes that properly fit the shape of your foot and arch
(3) t-shirts that are slightly body skimming but not tight
(2) tank tops-perfect for summer or a super-sweaty cardio session
(1) black sport skirt for tennis, running and more. (the ruffled/tiered options are really playful and pretty)
(3) sports bras that properly fit your bust and keep you supported while wicking moisture away
(1) black zip up long-sleeved collared workout jacket
(5) pairs of white ankle length gym socks (or no-show gym socks)
(2) hair bands/(1) package of hair elastics and a few clips or bobby pins to hold stray hairs in place

What to Look for in Your Workout Gear:

1. Comfort-I prefer soft fabrics that are breathable. This is a must-have for socks and underwear, and for that reason mine are always cotton. However, most workout gear is made of performance fabrics which are man-made and provide a lot of stretch. Have fun with it and choose an array of fun colors for tops and the basics of dark gray, black and navy for bottoms. I always choose tops that cover my bust area well so that if I'm bending over, my lady bits aren't visible (a good sports bra will help with this too). Likewise, pants need to sit up high enough that underwear aren't seen and your bottom is fully covered when you bend over.

2. Stretch-An essential part of workout gear is the "stretch" factor. When performing yoga moves, stretching or running, it's essential that the fabric move with you easily with you. The good news is most workout clothing these days has stretch built in.

3. Moisture-Wicking-It's important to wear clothing that will wick away moisture during a workout. Performance fabrics and natural bamboo are great examples of this, bamboo is actually anti-bacterial also. Performance/Technical fabrics do a great job of keeping you dry by pulling sweat away from your body and not holding it there as some natural fabrics do, helping to keep you warm also.

4. Stylish-When I go to the gym I certainly am not dressing to impress others but looking good just makes you feel good. Who wants to wear workout gear from the 80's when there are so many comfortable and beautiful options today? I typically keep my bottoms darker and go for a punch of color such as hot pink on top.

5. Seamless Undergarments-Whether you opt to wear thongs or full coverage panties, make sure they are seamless, cotton is best as it is breathable. Just as with a beautiful dress or great pair of pants, nothing ruins an outfit faster than visible panty lines. There are so many options these days that this should never be an issue.

Workout gear can range in price. What I recommend spending the money on is properly fitting workout bras and bottoms such as yoga pants. The cheaper ones don't always fit as well, often fade quickly and don't offer an array of lengths. I love LuLuLemon for yoga bottoms, they also happen to give your tush a little lift which makes you feel great. Zella is another great brand, they feel so great you can live in them at home-so comfy! The material doesn't fade and they last far longer than the other brands I've tried. For sports bras, I love Victoria's Secret sport, Champion for Target and I've been known to find some great tops and bras from discount retailers like TJMaxx, Marshall's and the like, even some on the clearance racks. Lately, I'm loving the workout options from Nordstrom online because they offer free shipping and free returns too if  something doesn't fit-less time driving and shopping, more time for working out!

Below are some of my current favorite workout pieces, if you're in the market for some new apparel, these will help you put together a new workout wardrobe of quality. If your budget is tight, evaluate what you currently own and use the best of what you've got. As you're able to, add in the items you're lacking over time as finances permit until you have a more complete workout wardrobe. I would focus on bottoms, bras and running shoes first. You can always get away without having fancy moisture-wicking socks, t-shirts and tanks, you can use what you have there instead.

If you cannot afford a gym membership or simply find it more feasible to workout from home to a DVD given time constraints or balancing a schedule with kids, I highly recommend ballet barre, yoga and anything by Jillian Michael's.

The great part about wearing more ladylike, classy workout clothing is that if you must run an errand on the way to the gym you won't mind being seen. You can use this gear for all of your outdoor needs too such as light hiking, trail walking, jogging, running etc.What are some of your favorite brands of workout gear?

Thanks for Reading!

XO




*image sources: all Nordstrom

Fashion Friday: Stella & Dot Fall Favorites

It's been a while since we've had a Fashion Friday post but fall is my favorite season so I couldn't let it pass us by without sharing some great accessories. More fashion posts to come in future weeks! I'm loving the new fall collection over at Stella & Dot and in case you weren't aware they have expanded from jewelry only to a full accessories line including handbags, wallets, tech accessories and jewelry travel rolls.

I'm a big fan of their jewelry because I know it is quality, I never have to question whether it contains nickel (which contains lead) and is not safe for children or adults, which quite a bit of fashion jewelry contains. Their entire collection is nickel free which is important as they have a girls' jewelry collection too. They are always so on trend and their pieces are built to last not to mention they are so beautifully packaged they make for a lovely gift!

I took a peek at their fall collection recently and have included 9 of my favorite fall items:

{Right to Left}:  black stud earrings  //   statement necklace   //  drop sparkle earrings 

red cross-body bag  // gold link bracelet  //   tangerine printed scarf

snakeskin print handbag   //  black & gold necklace  //  leopard iPad case (mini version here)

Stella & Dot is not only just an online boutique where you can purchase beautiful jewelry and accessories, but they create flexible opportunities for women to be work-at-home entrepreneurs as an independent stylist. Whether you're a stay-at-home mom looking to earn income, working full-time or part-time and are looking to create extra savings or fun money for yourself OR you just want to score a lot of beautiful jewelry for a steal, until the end of this month anyone who signs up as an independent stylist will receive $450 worth of gorgeous jewelry that you hand select for just a one-time $199 sign up fee. Isn't that awesome?!

With Christmas and the holidays right around the corner, what a great way to save up for your shopping or use the pieces as gifts. Now that kids have established themselves back at school, what a great opportunity to create a business of your own in your free time. If you're interested, click THIS LINK for more info or to sign up. This is the best deal I've seen them run so far, if you've been thinking about starting your own business with Stella & Dot, now it's such a great time to do it! :)

Which pieces are your favorite? Have you purchased any new accessories for fall yet? I'd love to hear about them!

Thanks for reading, happy weekend!

XO




*Please note that I was not compensated for this post.

Fashion Friday: Classy Homecoming Dresses

Happy Friday Everyone! I haven't written a Fashion Friday post in quite some time, however we do have many younger readers here who will experience their upcoming Homecoming dance or event shortly. Today's post may apply to you, your own daughter or perhaps a niece, etc. I'm sharing a collection of dresses that provide sophisticated and classy dress options from a company called Dress First. While they have hundreds of beautiful and affordable dresses to choose from, I've selected a few of my personal favorites that have a polished look and aren't too frilly, filled with sequins, tacky or over-the-top as many dresses designed for and offered to young ladies can be.

I have included  homecoming dresses in varying lengths to accommodate an array of options depending on the formality of a specific event and also individual personalities. All of these dresses are available in other color options so if you love the style but prefer a different hue, there are a large array to choose from that's perfectly you. Even if you're past the point in life of attending a homecoming event, these dresses make for lovely party options and other special occasion events.

10 Classy Homecoming Dress Options

Fit for a princess, this more formal A-line floor length dress is shown in silver. I love 

the soft tulle and simple bow at the waist with sweetheart strapless neckline. 

This classic little black dress is a great option, it's color is formal with a bit of 

sparkle at the waist and neckline. It is sexy yet not revealing and has you perfectly

covered for a night of dancing with its full straps. Tea length is always a great choice.

This is the perfect red dress for someone who wants to look elegant but hide their hip/thigh area. 

It is an A-line style, hits right at the knee and has a flattering neckline

which includes straps to make for a fuss free evening of twirling on the dance floor.

For ladies who prefer a soft blush pink over the boldness of red or brighter colors,

this pearl pink strapless above-the-knee dress provides a delicate look with just the right

amount of detail and movement in the skirt for dancing.

This emerald green feminine flowing dress adds the perfect pop of color and would suit 

almost any hair or skin coloring. It draws attention to the waist and yet subtly hides both

the upper-arm and upper leg areas for those who are a bit conscious or who just prefer

a looser style. This dress could be worn again and again, it's so versatile.

A one-shoulder dress prevents fidgeting and allows you to dance then night away

while staying on-trend and highlighting your shoulders-perfect for a lady who considers 

her shoulders to be one of her best features. Body-skimming, but not form fitting, this dress 

is figure flattering and provides just the right amount of sophistication in a bold color.

This trapeze style dress has a beautiful beaded neckline which takes the place of

a necklace. Perfect for a young lady to feel pretty in without having to be fitted. This looser

style accommodates a variety of body types and is comfortable for a long evening.

This classic white tea-length dress is both elegant and sweet. The sweetheart

style neckline provides softness and interest and the flower details are so pretty. 

Depending on the event, this is both a great daytime or nighttime option.

This red longer length dress is perfect for the young lady who considers herself

to be a bit more modest and practical but still likes to have fun with fashion. The pop

of color and details provide a great option allowing her to stay mostly covered and 

provide extra material in the tummy, hips and thighs.

This white ruffled dress with lace bodice and satin bow is flirty, fun yet elegant. It's a 

perfect selection for anyone who wants to dance the night away and show off her legs.

Even though there are many different textures the combination is perfection!

For a limited time from 08/19/13- 08/21/13 Dress First will also be offering free shipping! :)

Whether you're planning your outfit details for your homecoming event or remember your own homecoming from years or decades ago, which dress here is your favorite that you'd choose to wear today if you could?

Thanks for Reading!

XO




*This is a sponsored post however, all opinions and dress selections are my own. I carefully select each and every sponsor I work with and only partner with those which represent you, 'The Classy Woman' reader.

Fashion Friday: 5 Best Memorial Day Sales!

How are you all doing, is everyone ready for a relaxing long weekend? I know I am but I'll be working for most of it but I hope you have something fun planned to celebrate the unofficial start of the summer. This weekend is a time to reflect on the freedom we have living here in the U.S. because of the brave men and women all over the country who risk their lives daily. It also happens to be when a lot of really great sales take place if you're in a shopping kind of mood.

I thought for this Fashion Friday post, I'd share the best deals that I know about in case anyone is looking for just the right swimsuit, cute pair of sandals, maxi dress, new handbag or the perfect fitting pair of white jeans for summer. :)

Memorial Day Deals

1. Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale- Save up to 40% on clothes, shoes, bags and much more!
2. J. Crew- Up to $75 off your purchase, use code: SHOPNOW
3. Banana Republic- Save 35% off your entire purchase, use code: BRDIVEIN and free shipping on all orders over $50.
4. Piperlime- Up to 40% off all dresses & sandals!
5. Shoe Dazzle- 20% off full priced styles as well as up to 35% off all other shoes and handbags.


I plan to take advantage of these sales for a few items that I've had my eye on lately....

These Gucci 58mm oversized sunglasses at Nordstrom

This Banana Republic Glamour Link Bracelet

This Banana Republic Evan Convertible Leather Cross Body Bag in Cognac.

I have Monday off so hubby and I plan to either enjoy a picnic in the park nearby or head to the closest beach less than an hour away-the weather is supposed to be beautiful. What do you all have planned for this long weekend?

Thanks for reading and have a safe, happy and memorable Memorial Day Weekend!

XO

Fashion Friday: Spring Favorites from Asos

It's no secret that I prefer shopping for clothing online. No traffic, no parking lots to circle, no lines to stand in to try items on or to pay and of course it helps keep our gas budget down too when I'm not driving all over town trying to find some new staples for my wardrobe.

ASOS is no exception, I love this online retailer for many reasons, one big one being that they offer FREE shipping both ways and their return policy makes things a breeze if something isn't for you. They have a large selection of regular, petite, curve (plus size) and even maternity for women as well as accessories too and they have so many great styles at affordable prices. They show each item from multiple angles and even have a 10 second runway video of the model walking in each item so you get a much better idea of how an item hangs, how long it is and overall what you're ordering.

Come take a peek below at what some of my favorites are for Spring and also for you expecting mamas like myself, I have an additional collection of my personal maternity picks too because a gal has to look stylish and classy for Springtime-bump or not. :)

{Find it here}:   1. Blazer  // 2. Ruffle Tank  // 3. Red flowy skirt //  4. Black Dress 
  5. Bonjour Top  //  6. Green Pleated Skirt  //  7. White Dress  //  8. Feather Clutch 

{Find items here}:   9. Nude Blouse  //  10. Lace Dress  //  11. Navy & White Maxi    
12. Black Dress  //  13. Green Striped Top  //  14. Navy Striped Dress  
  15. Baroque Print Dress  //  16. Black Maxi Dress

Spring has so many wonderful options-bold prints, flowing skirts, the classic stripe, bright colors, ruffles, lace, satin and soft textures just to name a few.

I'd love to hear from you! Which are YOUR favorite ASOS styles shown above? What's on your list of items to add to your spring wardrobe?

Thanks for reading!

XO




*Please note that this is not a sponsored post nor was I was not compensated for writing this post about ASOS clothing, all opinions are my own.

Credits: All clothing images by ASOS, all text images belong to me. 

Fashion Friday: Outerwear with Flare (Guest Post)

{source}

We're switching things up here for today's Fashion Friday with a guest post from a celebrity stylist! Let me introduce you to Anya Sarre who is one of Hollywood's most influential trendsetters. A nationally recognized celebrity Stylist, Sarre is known for her impeccable eye and ability to tie any look together with the perfect accessory. Named "Best Television Fashion Stylist" for her appearances on Entertainment Tonight, The Insider and countless other media outlets, Anya is the go-to fashion expert for Hollywood's biggest celebrities.

Here are Anya's tips on Outwear for the Fall and Winter Seasons:

Outerwear Offers Fashion Flare

Fashion trends this season offer variety and volume: velvet, fur, leather, and print! Whatever items you choose to elevate your wardrobe, you are not done shopping until you have invested in the perfect outerwear and shoes. Consider retro chic, modified trench coats with an eye to accessorizing for a feminine finish.

{on sale}

Style and Attitude

High-waisted trousers with wide legs in a range of earthy tweeds are cozy basics this season. Accentuate this androgynous piece with a tailored Oxford shirt, a necktie, and even a vest or sweater thrown over the top for added warmth. Choose a brown plaid wool trench coat with cuffs and detailed buttons to ward off the chill; for the fashion bold, don a bowler-inspired hat in a coordinating color to draw attention to your feminine features. A metallic or leather briefcase in lieu of your handbag with elegant short booties finishes the look.

{on sale!}

Tempting Textures

The winter runways are teeming with a melody of fabrics and textures. If the luxury of velvet, leather, and fur elicits a soft sigh from you, consider adding pieces to your closet that will keep you purring through the dark, cold months to come. Choose black or basic gray for the bottom. Skinny leather pants, a leather pencil skirt, or even tone-on-tone patterned coated leggings pair well with a simple tunic or a silk blouse in a jewel tone—like burgundy or jade. When bracing for the cold wind, look for a plaid trench coat with a wrap closure. An asymmetrical fur collar adds visual interest and a touch of elegance. Black leather handbag and matching pumps are the final touches.

{source}

Sixties Style Updated

This season the sixties are hitting the scene. Top a playful pink mini-skirt with white tights and a fitted white turtleneck. Accessorize with round white sunglasses—for a Jackie O inspiration—a silver vintage chain, and black leather knee-high boots. For venturing in the outdoors, choose a shorter fitted trench with a side button closure. Look for a trench with a scalloped collar and pair it with a fun black beret and elbow-length leather gloves.

Whatever your personal style, there is a fun trench coat that will add warmth and pizzazz to your wardrobe. Be adventurous and try on something unexpected! You may find the love of your winter.


Thank you so much Anya for your fabulous tips, it was my pleasure to have you guest post here on The Classy Woman blog today!

If you'd like to read more of Anya's fashion advice, here is her website.

As a Canadian gal who has braved many cold winters and knows the importance of keeping warm and dry, if you live in a really cold climate and warmth is your number one factor along with a pretty fur-lined hood, I highly recommend looking into Canada Goose Jackets. You don't have to live north of the U.S. border to appreciate them, I know many of you around the globe cannot wait until spring but until this long and crazy winter weather comes to an end, this will be your warmest option!

Thanks for reading!

XO

Fashion Friday: Stella & Dot for 2013

Don't you just love the feeling of fresh and new?! That's one of the reasons I really love ringing in the new year and everywhere we look new trends for 2013 are popping up, including late winter/early spring designs and colors. Stella & Dot jewelry is no exception, they just launched their new spring collection and it includes some colorful, spring pieces that I wanted to share with you all. It may be chilly, cloudy or gloomy where you are but you can add a bit of cheer to your day by incorporating bright pops of color to any outfit to get you through winter as we transition into spring.

You might remember that I shared my all-time favorite Stella & Dot pieces in this post just a couple months ago. I'm glad to see that these pieces are still around  because many of them are still on my wish list, I'm still adding to my 'fun money fund' so I can grab the pieces I'll wear most often.

My Top 10 Spring Collection Favorites....

1. Fiona Earrings   //  2. Jolie Necklace   //  3. Hudson Leather Wrap Bracelet

4. Lily Chandelier Earrings  //  5. Carmen Necklace  //  6. Christina Link Bracelet

7. Seychelles Chandelier Earrings  (also here in mint & cobalt blue) //  8. On the Mark Necklace 

  9. Raina Earrings  //  10. Betty Hoops

While Stella & Dot is one of our sponsors, this post is not a promotional piece for them, I'm just really excited about their new line and love the quality and affordability of their beautiful jewelry.

It's January, which means Stella & Dot is offering an amazing deal again to those who want to increase their income this year and also do something they love by becoming their own independent stylist/consultant. It's perfect for stay-at-home mom's, those who work from home already or really anyone looking to make some extra cash on weekends or weeknights, etc. Included in your start-up kit is hundreds of dollars of jewelry so that you can select pieces that you love best (the best part is you'll have a whole new assortment of pieces to jazz up your everyday outfits-bonus!) and will include all the materials you need to make your business a success!

So, if you love fashion, have always wanted to start your own business with minimal investment and have fun along the way, this is a great way to do it. Make 2013 the year you achieve all your dreams!

Click here to see the full spring collection. So, which new pieces do you like best from the new 2013 Stella & Dot line?

Thanks for Reading & Happy Friday!

XO