I have to confess I am having a major love affair with mesh anywhere on my athletic gear. Mesh on sports bras, tank tops, jackets, or leggings is nearly irresistible to me. Mesh is a smart detail, helping to keep you cool while giving your workout clothing an uncomplicated edge.
Gallivant around the gym in these Alo Mesh Inset Leggings. Do not, I repeat DO NOT, wear too much mesh. I don’t care how “really, really good looking” you think you are [Zoolander], you will possibly be mistaken for an extra from a circa 1986 Motley Crue video. But seriously, these versatile mesh inset leggings are an anchor piece that allow a seamless transition from workout gear to sportswear with a few quick changes.
Pair these leggings with an unembellished top like this one from Solow Deep Armhole Muscle Tank . Avoid baggy bottoms with this shirt unless resembling MC Hammer is your thing or you practice the martial art of Rex Kwon Do [Napoleon Dynamite]. Wear this playful bohemian Onzie Sports Bra (See similar here by Onzie: Double Strap X-Back Sports Bra). You work hard for a toned back and these pieces show it off! Throw on a pair of Nike Free’s (Nike ‘Free TR Connect 2’ Training Shoe), a terrific shoe whether your workout focus is power, quickness, or endurance. This combination is the total package; wear it to the gym and strut your stuff.
Now let’s explore how easy the transition is to sportswear. Disco is not dead, baby. I came across this faux fur coat from NastyGal.com (Glamorous Tone Up Faux Fur Coat) that I could not resist pairing it with the aforementioned mesh leggings. Some of you see fur and immediately want to be covered in it. You know who you are. The temperature takes a dip and you immediately wrap yourself in every fur piece you own. A snuffaluffagus-like vest, fur hat, fur boots. Gaudy head-to-toe fur outfits are as tired as Pamela Anderson’s red bathing suit (and this reference to Pam Anderson, frankly). To be clear: There is no such thing as a stylish Ewok. One statement piece should be enough to quell your primal cavewoman cravings. Keep this look casually cool with this blackberry Free People ‘Canyon’ Henley and leave the gym in a pair of embossed Aquatalia by Marvin K. ‘Scout’ Weatherproof Moto Boot . Or, show off your gorgeous gams post workout with a pair of Dolce Vita Wedge Bootie’s .
Not a fan of fur? Not to worry. Compliment your sporty look with this minimalist Rick Owens calf leather jacket and walk out of the gym in style with these en vogue patent leather Prada Oxford Platforms or trendy high tops from rag & bone ‘Kent’ Desert Boot .
Store your gym essentials in this handsome Zac Posen bag or a cunning Pour La Victoire backpack (See Similar styles here: Pour la Victoire ‘Servant’ Leather & Genuine Calf Hair Tote & Pour la Victoire ‘Inez’ Shoulder Tote). Also, don’t forget to accessorize before you head out of the gym! This will help pull your whole outfit together and give the finishing touch. (Ok, I have a confession…) I am a really big fan of gold, as you no doubt will learn in subsequent articles. I may be genetically predisposed to gravitate towards anything gold. Think Persian King Xerxes from 300. Hence, my affinity for this Michael Kors ‘Slim Runway’ Mesh Strap Watch , it’s a perfect fit.
Remember, mesh should not be feared. It just had its reputation ruined by severe fashion faux-pauxs of the 1980s and Right Said Fred. When worn appropriately, it uniquely sets one apart. Experiment with this outrageous detail in your pants, tops, and accessories. Choose one or two statement pieces, stay true to who you are, and make sure to have fun with them!