• Fashion
  • Lifestyle
  • Beauty
  • About
  • Services
  • Testimonials
  • Contact
  • Fashion
  • Lifestyle
    • Home
    • Wellness
    • Travel
  • Beauty
  • Home
  • About
  • Services
    • List
    • Testimonials
  • Contact

What I’m Lovin’: Workout Wear Road Test

January 6, 2015

Happy 2015! You may have noticed that I took a brief hiatus after Christmas.  I’m back now and with a resolution to make this blog bigger and better in its second year (that’s right, I’ve been at this 1 year!!).  This includes more posts, diverse content, and (ultimately) a refined design.  I’ll get there…stay tuned!

_9779912(1)
Zella Live-In Leggings

To get kick-started into the new year, I’m dedicating a series of posts to workout wear.  Nothing motivates you off the couch or out of bed better than knowing you’ve got a stylish outfit to strut in the gym (a penalty fee for a missed class also helps)!

My original idea for this post was to find several alternatives to higher-priced, popular workout brands.  Therefore, I decided to road-test 3 brands – a consistent sampling including a pair of leggings, a sports bra, and a sweatshirt from each.  Below are my initial findings:

Fabletics

I began with a new online, membership-based service called Fabletics. Touted as an alternative to Lululemon (at a fraction of the price), Kate Hudson is not only the face of the company but a partial owner as well.  Need-less-to-say, I was eager to try it.

FL141112-1_577x866
Fabletics “Breezy” Outfit

Pros

  • Price.  None of their leggings exceed $70 and shipping is free when your purchase is over $49.  They also advertise that you can get an entire “outfit” starting at $49.95 (more on that below).
  • Quality and design.  On-trend colors and designs revival other more expensive brands.  The leggings were of sturdy construction and the thick material provided great compression.  No see-thru concerns here!

Cons

  • Membership requirements. The membership offers the best prices…but, unless you remember to “skip a month” before the 5th, you get charged $49.95 each month (whether you intend to make a purchase or not).  This total remains in your account until you apply it towards a purchase.
  • Outfit pairings. While your first “outfit” may be as little as $25, I would prefer to create my own outfits (I don’t operate well within constraints).
  • Fit.  I ordered my normal size yet all of the pieces were extraordinarily small.
  • Free, but not easy returns.  Returning requires a phone call and, while the customer service agent was very friendly, I was unable to exchange without them first receiving my return (due my reduced price for my first outfit).  Therefore, I still have a credit in my account awaiting my re-purchase.

EXP Core

I’ve seen a lot of EXP Core in fashion magazines and on other blogs. The concept is fashion-forward athletic wear made by the trend-driven retailer Express.  Their leggings and bras are offered in fun prints with unique detailing, such as pockets large enough to fit your iPhone.

b60950c32963515716e2ed31ad433a2a(3)
EXP Core “City Lights” Leggings

Pros

  • Price.  Again, their leggings are generally under $70 and they often offer promotions. **Currently buy one, get one 50% off!
  • Fun design. I love the prints and unique details.  For example, the sweatshirt I ordered has an open back, perfect for showing off the strappy sports bra that also came in my delivery.

Cons

  • Cheap material. The leggings had a sheen to them, which is often a symptom of inexpensive material.  And although compression, they were not flattering – particularly in the pattern I chose.  Perhaps this last one is more “user error” in that the print was not flattering on me…in the least.
  • Low in-store inventory.  I found the pieces I wanted and at a discount online.  The site offers easy returns either via mail or in-store.  Returns were easy enough when I went into my local store; however, there was very little EXP Core inventory in the store.  Therefore, in-person exchanges or even shopping seems unlikely.

GapFit

Where to go when on the hunt for quality yet inexpensive and on-trend pieces to update your wardrobe? Well, look no further than The Gap, of course.  Brick and mortar Gap stores can be found most anywhere, yet only certain ones carry their athletic line, GapFit.  You are guaranteed a larger selection and often better deals can be found online, with the ease of returning to your local store.

cn8955888
GapFit Medium Impact Bra

Pros

  • Quality product and solid construction. If you’re a Gap shopper, their workout line is consistent with the quality and design of their apparel line. Also, the style is in keeping with their “classic-with-a-twist” aesthetic.
  • Price.  Again, when looking for a less expensive alternative for workout wear, their leggings are also less than $70 full-price.  And, you will often find some kind of promotion or sale at the Gap..wait for it (always).

Cons

  • Inconsistent sizing.  The tank I ordered was huge yet the leggings and bra ran small; meanwhile the sweatshirt was true-to-size.  Ordinarily, I am a consistent size in Gap apparel, so this was a surprise.
  • Lackluster design elements.  If you’re in the market for black and grey, GapFit can be a solid option.  However, I’m interested in fun colors and patterns.  The patterns I found to be unexciting and had an inexpensive quality when stretched.
  • Sale pricing.  A con? I know…what am I saying here? The Gap’s pricing seems a little like finding the price you want to pay for an airline ticket – everyone on the flight paid a different price for the same seat.  The Gap does not consolidate their online and in-store businesses; therefore, you never know if you’re getting the very best price when you are shopping online or in the store.  Personally, this really annoys me.  I’m willing to pay what I was rung up for (obviously, I made that choice when looking at the price tag), but to know that someone else got the exact item, at the same time for less really chaps me!

Overall, I wasn’t entirely sold on the items that I ordered.  As stated above, quality and sizing were consistent concerns.  And, as I’ve said numerous times previous, it’s not a deal if you have to frequently replace an item or if you don’t wear it because you don’t 100% love it.  In the end, finding just the right piece that makes you feel good and motivates you, may be worth the higher price tag.

Stay tuned later this week for outfit shots and details on what I ended up keeping (both from the 3 brands above and including other favorites).  Finally, this week’s “Friday Favorites” will feature 5 workout must-haves.

What’s your resolution? What do you want to see more of in 2015? Leave a comment with any inspiration – comments and suggestions always welcome.  Thanks for reading! ~Jenn

Comments: 0   //   Category: What I'm Lovin

Share this post:
Felt like today was just the occasion to don a seq Felt like today was just the occasion to don a sequin dress. I didn’t make it far in the heels. 
#inaugurationstyle #sequinsfordays #itsjustfashion
Each day I’ve intended to post here. I greeted t Each day I’ve intended to post here. I greeted the new year feeling inspired with a renewed intention for my account; to share with you the goodies I love, wear, try. Unfiltered and honest. That’s what I’m here for. But then...2021 arrived feeling much like her older sister, 2020. Instead, I’ve avoided a lot of social media; choosing to tune into various news outlets and into my family. So, HERE WE ARE. A post proving that I got dressed yesterday, wearing some of my new favorites (these @flamingosshoes white boots!) and steady stand-bys (year 2 wearing this @notmondaymercantile beanie on repeat). I took the kids out after school to run a couple of errands and connect with a business I love to support; we made plans for a spring share. Man, it felt good to get out! And now, I’m posting early before I’ve read the morning news. So, it’s happened. 
•
Please stay safe, remain respectful, and true to yourself. Social media is a beautiful way to connect, create, and inspire...but can also be a dangerous rabbit hole of misinformation and an opportunity for people to behave in a way they ordinarily wouldn’t in person. Off my soap box. Have a lovely Friday!#wordsfrommyheart #realoutfitgram #flamingosshoes #whiteboots #notmondaymoments
Happy New Year my dear friends! I’ve missed you Happy New Year my dear friends! I’ve missed you all but enjoyed a nice long break. Heading back home after some snow time and I’m feeling re-energized (for now). Isn’t it funny how a change in the calendar can make you feel different? Are you a “new year, new you” kinda gal or more indifferent? I do like a good reset. Even though we’ll be doing more of the same early this year, I’m feeling more optimistic. For now. Cheers to 2021!
•
•
Also, posted in stories a nearly identical photo of us from last January at the top of @schweitzer_mountain. While the photos look the same, it’s fun to think that we now are Sandpoint homeowners! A positive outcome of 2020. #newyearonthemountain #snowbest #schweitzermountain #skifamily
Snow plus a Christmas sweater...I’m checking all Snow plus a Christmas sweater...I’m checking all the boxes this year. Thinking of everyone not able to spend time with loved ones this year. I’m so grateful for our little family but really missing my parents, siblings, nieces and nephews, my in-laws.  Over a year seems far too long to be apart; but we all need to continue to be safe. It matters. #christmassweater #christmas2020 #staysafestayhome #vintagesweater
Let’s make merry! Although holiday traditions ma Let’s make merry! Although holiday traditions may look different this year; we have an opportunity to get creative and share in new experiences. Like the new-to-me homemade marshmallow recipe, @thekirstyfiles and I have the pleasure of bringing to you in partnership with @pacific_place. We encourage you to invite a few pals to a zoom date, pop a bottle of bubbly, and create these delicious confections together. I promise they’re relatively fool proof (I pulled them off!) AND a sugar-high afternoon spent with friends (even virtually) will be sure to get you in the holiday spirit! Tune in to Pacific Place’s IGTV or YouTube to see the full tutorial, including my gaff when my marshmallow began moving into the “hard ball” territory (note: this recipe does require a candy thermometer and the ability to read it!). Cheers to making the most out of holiday 2020! #homemademarshmallows #pacificplaceseattle #craftingtogether
Ooooh...how I love a good shopping day with a frie Ooooh...how I love a good shopping day with a friend. The belly laughs, chit chat, and groans (as we tried on a number of jeans) provided the escape from reality that I needed. Sometimes you don’t realize just how much you miss something until you get to enjoy it again!
.
.
Other things I love? Soft luxury cashmere, designer denim that fits like a glove, and packable hats (yes, packable!). All can be found @willaseattle; a small, women-owned boutique located in the heart of the Queen Anne neighborhood in Seattle. Be sure to check out our stories as @thekirstyfiles and I share holiday-perfect gifts for your sister, mother, girlfriends...yourself! Lucky for Kirsty and I, our husbands also know the lovely owner, Liz (and she has our wishlists on file)! 
.
.
Also very near and dear to my heart, Willa is the epitome of shopping local. The shelves are stocked with unique, small business designs; including many Seattle businesses. When you shop local, you not only support your community but also curate a look all your own!
#shoplocalseattle #seattleboutique #seattlestyle #happytoshare
Continued chronicles of dressing stylishly for you Continued chronicles of dressing stylishly for yourself, aka #stayathomestyle. Sure, 2020 may be the year of the sweatpant (combined with a sleeping bag-like coat, as seen here). And yes, a mask chain is this year’s hottest accessory. BUT I still take care to actually get dressed each day. And while lipstick may no longer be a part of my daily routine (I mean, was it ever??), it’s still important to be pulled together..if only for my own mental health. And even if no one else sees it but the grocery clerk. #whatmamaworemonday #sweatpantsseason 
•
•
PS. Did you know I usually tag everything that I’m wearing? It may not all be current, but DM me if you want more details.
A few days late but still so grateful. We’ve spe A few days late but still so grateful. We’ve spent a lot of quality time as a party of five, braved a few big changes, and (mostly) survived 2020. #dontjinxit #partyoffive #practicegratitude #seattlefamily 
photo: @chelseamacorphotography
On the eve of Black Friday sales bonanza, I hope t On the eve of Black Friday sales bonanza, I hope to inspire, remind, urge, and even beg you to ignore all of the crazy cyber sales that have been creeping into your inbox for the past week and instead SHOP SMALL this holiday season. Yes, perhaps it’s less convenient and even less of a “deal” but this pandemic is putting an even greater strain on the small and local businesses that are the absolute life blood of our communities. And, in addition to supporting an entrepreneur and neighbor, you’ll likely find more creative, individual, and unique gifts for your loved ones by shopping a small business.
•
Are you in the Seattle area?  Hit me up with questions about my favorite local haunts and finds. I’ve got so many ideas to share; together we can help blow your holiday giving out of the water this year! #shopsmallthischristmas #supportsmallbusiness #shopsmallseattle #seattlestylist

welcome to my blog

Thanks for reading! I began this blog in early 2014 as an outlet to share my styling tips and tricks, and disseminate shopping wisdom. I am honored when readers make a connection; whether it’s learning how to make the latest fashion trend your own or finding the perfect new addition to your wardrobe. Thank you for stopping by and spending a few minutes of your day sharing in my passion for fashion and style! ~Jenn

Search Posts

Subscribe to Posts

Enter your email address to follow this blog and receive posts by email:

Categories

  • #InstaSTYLE
  • Beauty
  • Fashion
  • Friday Favorites
  • Giveaway
  • How To
  • Lifestyle
    • Home
    • Travel
    • Wellness
  • Outfits
  • Wellness Wednesday
  • What I'm Lovin
    • Gift Guide

Archives

  • January 2020
  • October 2019
  • August 2019
  • June 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • January 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • March 2017
  • February 2017
  • January 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • May 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015
  • August 2015
  • July 2015
  • June 2015
  • May 2015
  • April 2015
  • March 2015
  • February 2015
  • January 2015
  • December 2014
  • November 2014
  • October 2014
  • September 2014
  • August 2014
  • July 2014
  • June 2014
  • May 2014
  • April 2014
  • March 2014
  • February 2014
  • January 2014
All Content ©2017 - Jenniferlovin.com
Website by Made to Thrive

Copyright © 2021 · Jennifer Lovin on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in