The Running (Wo)Man

I'm that girl who buys workout gear because it was cute, placing no consideration on functionality. But that has definitely backfired on me. Take for example, that time I lost ONE glove because I placed it in the pocket of my jacket that had no zippers. What do you do with one glove?! Then there was that time I had to pin running food to my top, because once again, my jacket had no zippers, nor my pants for that matter. The worst lesson of all? Wearing 'running' capris that had no drawstrings. I kept hiking up my pants every few stride. Moral of these tales? Always look for zippers, pockets and drawstrings! The good news for us is that fashion and functionality can coexist in activewear. So we can work on our fitness while looking caaayyuuuutee! About two weeks ago, I was invited to attend a blogger Summer 2014 Preview Event at Athleta in Back Bay. I am always on the lookout for good activewear so this was a great opportunity to learn about the brand. When I stepped into the store, I didn't know where to focus because I was visually stimulated by all the bright colors and bold prints. Luckily, the employees working the event that night were really helpful, giving me the lay of the land and guiding me towards items that would be good for running. I tried on the Be Free Knickers and immediately fell in love. It features a neverend drawstring which means no more losing one end of the drawstring to the inside of your pants. I despise when that happens. As for storage? Plenty. Internal key pocket, rear pocket with zipper, and deep side pockets. Lastly, the purple blossom print for the win! I also tried on the color block fast track tee, which is also an amazing product. But since I was not in the market for a top, I had to leave it behind. AND I also had to keep myself on a budget, or I would have bought the entire store! As I am getting ready for my next half marathon in June, I'll definitely be back for more.

I have gone on a couple of runs with these pants and they have definitely become one of my favorites. The wicking and ventilating mesh keeps me cool and dry! Give them a try, you will not be disappointed.

Outfit Details: 

Long Sleeve Top: City Sports. I won a gift card as part of a running group I participated in about two years ago and purchased this top. It has lasted me this long! For something similar, try the CS by City Sports Core Long Sleeve, $19.98 (sale).

Blossoms Be Free Knicker: Athleta, $64: paid, $29. Athleta was very generous by gifting bloggers in attendance with a $25 gift card. An added bonus? If you shop with a Banana Republic, Gap or Old Navy store card, you earn points! I was able to redeem one of my $10 reward certificates for additional savings. Also, check out Athleta's sale selections if the full priced items are above your price point.

Slide Proof Headbands: Goody, $4.49. I have the hardest time finding a headband that actually stays on my head while working out. My hair is super silky and heavy, so headbands tend to slip off my head. I have tried ones from Lululemon and Lucy and no dice. Until I found these awesome Goody ones for under $5!

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