Step away from the black exercise pants.
This spring, workout wear isn't just functional, it's taken a fashion-forward turn, with daring prints, intricate details and look-at-me shades. Yes, even in pants.
Bold hues are huge, says Marissa Stephenson, fitness editor at Self magazine. Neons, jewel tones, corals and yellows are some of the top shades for fitted jackets, tops, sports bras and pants.
"The colors and patterns are so new and fresh I'm almost giddy," says Karyn Riale, director of retail buying for the shop Equinox, which sells its stylish wares in nationwide locations.
With prints, anything goes, from hot-pink leopard created by Adidas by Stella McCartney, to bright tribal prints from Nike, to splatter-paint, florals and zigzags.
"To see companies like Nike that are taking risks with patterns and colors, it makes the experience more fun," said celebrity trainer Tracy Anderson, whose clients include Gwyneth Paltrow.
Wearing bright-colored pants can be intimidating, especially for women who prefer the slimming power of black. But, Stephenson says, it's all about choosing the most forgiving shade and flattering cut.
Her pick? A bright-blue capri that hits just below the knee.
If you simply can't let go of black, pops of color and detail add pizazz, such as pants with a print waistband or a bright stripe down the side. Perforated detailing on tops is also hot, as are texturized prints, such as a black-on-black animal print, Stephenson says.
Even neon socks and underwear can add a shot of color, adds Amanda Casgar, area community manager for lululemon.
Getting rid of your stretched out, faded workout wardrobe doesn't just make you look good — it makes you feel good.
Celebrity trainer Tracy Anderson says that dressing well for your workout can increase your motivation.
"Anytime you're making a conscious decision to do something, you're connecting more to the experience," says Anderson, who has studios in Manhattan and Water Mill, N.Y.
One move to avoid? Buying constricting, skin-tight clothing in the hopes of looking thinner.
"If you're doing a workout properly, these kinds of constricting fabrics can cut off your ability to perform well." It's much better, Anderson says, to simply "do your workout well."
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