“Who are you? Are you in touch with all of your darkest fantasies? Have you created a life for yourself where you can experience them? I have. I am f$%&ing crazy. But I am free…” So says songwriter, Lana Del Rey.
Though Lana’s quote concerns dark fantasies (which I generally don’t discuss in this space…yet), her overarching point is vital: Get off of the hamster wheel of predictability, stop the drab monotony of “safe” mundane, joyless routine, and step into your unique self to live freely in every part of your life. The impact the clothes you wear have on your mood is often underestimated. This is especially true for one’s gym attire. I urge you to leave your comfort zone, try something new, try an outrageously fantastic piece. It feels great. This notion of a unique and independent self is embodied in a pair of feminine and flirty yet quirky workout leggings.
Strategically placed patterns synching in your waist, seams that make even the most neglected glutes Kardashian-esque, and provocative colors will force any bashful wallflower to sashay towards a lifetime full of unimaginable confidence. Whether the Lululemon Luxtreme pants were on a girl at my coffee shop, or whether those speed shorts worn by a flirty runner on the canal, or either piece paired with the perfect yoga tank top on the “alarmingly flexible” girl in yoga class, each conveyed the powerful message: feminine, stylish and brazen workout gear.
I could not resist their haunting siren song any longer. Like the starving cartoon lion seduced by the wafting aroma of a big juicy steak, I was drawn into Lululemon. I surrendered (Don’t judge me!). One would think, being a runner my whole life I would automatically adorn myself in crazy, so-ugly-its-cute workout gear. You do know what I’m talking about. I am referring to the shorts, leggings, and crops you typically only see on the obsessively dedicated runners.
I remember my first pair of wacky workout crops. A pair of Ikat purple and black print Wunder Unders from Lululemon. As soon as I brought the pants home I second guessed my purchase. I immediately wondered the reason for my purchase. Had I really wanted them? Did I get duped by that unbelievably happy Lululemon sales girl who seemed to have had a big hearty bowl full of sunshine just before commuting to work on a rainbow. I confess, the Wunder Under crops stayed neatly folded on a shelf for weeks. Then I remembered Rule #74 “I own the pants, they don’t own me.” I was not going to let the pants bully me into buying another pair of solid workout pants. Ridiculous right?! I called upon my inner-“Liberace” and all was well. A great quote from legendary artist Salvadore Dali captures the potential power and confidence one can gain through a unique and eclectic wardrobe: “I’ve rarely sunk to the level of dressing in civilian clothes. I always go in Dalí uniform.” Diary of a Genius.
Eventually, the crops came off of the shelf. First my right foot, then my left. I shimmied into my Wunder Under’s, then took them out for a spin. I owned the cheetah-like Ikat purple crops and it awakened the ‘ugly-runner’ inside of me. Today I seek out audacious colors and patterns (thanks to Lululemon!). In fact, I prefer them. My pants are legitimately awesome! Dip into the creative and vivacious world athletic clothing designers help to create. Hit the pavement with a solid top, your favorite watch and let your gorgeous body and fantastic gear do the talking.
HAPPY SHOPPING!
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