Workout attire can be quite expensive.  Over the years, I’ve had a hard time deciding which pieces were worth spending more on, and which were best bought at Target.  So this week, I present a handy little guide of what workout wear works for me.  All of the items I am recommending today  I have been using for years with much success.

So, first things first- the dreaded Sports Bra.  I have an….adequate bosom.  This can make it rather difficult to find a sports bra that works.  I have tried a few of the sports bras with cups with very little success- they pinch, they give you a uniboob, they become misshapen after a few washes.  What works best for me is a lined cotton underwire bra (which you can get anywhere) with a lightweight sports bra. My favorite sports bras are from the C9 by Champion line from Target:

C9 by Champion Camisole Sports Bra

I prefer the thin straps because it just less fabric on the body, so you are a little bit cooler. They still provide adequate support, especially if you pairing them with an underwire bra.  I know plenty of people of all sizes who are fans of this sports bra.  It sells for $16.99 at Target (though keep your eyes peeled for in-store sales- I see them all the time!)

My favorite tanks are also by C9:

My favorite thing about these tanks is that they really are both long and lean! They are long enough that they cover the tops of your shorts or pants, and the fabric is breathable enough that you stay cool while working out.  They also have a racerback, which makes them especially comfortable.  These tanks are available in a variety of colors.  They retail for $14.99, but again are often on sale in store.

When it comes to running shorts, I’ve tried every pair under the sun.  While I initially balked at the idea of the built in brief, it is now a must have.  That being said, I have tried several pairs of shorts with the built in brief that have, uh….not stayed where they were supposed to be.  Personally, I’d prefer to focus on the treadmill and not my creeping underpants. This is why I love the Tempo Short by Nike:

Not only are these the most comfortable shorts I’ve found, they are also the most attractive and flattering running shorts I’ve seen.  They are short enough to give you good mobility, but not so short that you need to worry about being “that girl” at the gym.  These shorts sell for $28.00, and rarely ever go on sale.

My favorite socks my surprise you a bit- they are from Old Navy:

Old Navy Athletic Socks

I love these socks because they are thick enough to keep your feet from getting blisters.  They also last FOREVER. I have had a few pairs for over a year and they are still without holes.  These socks also come in a variety of cute colors to match all your Long and Lean tanks!  $6.50/pair, or two pairs for $5.00 each.

Lastly, my favorite headband is this cotton spandex headband from American Apparel, which retails for $8.00 and is available in every color in the rainbow.

So what are your favorite workout items?  Are you brand loyal?  What do you look for in your exercise gear?

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Slynnro is the author of Slynnro, a personal blog chronicling travel escapades, fashion and skincare obsessions, and various amusing anecdotes about marriage. She also reviews skin care products and much more at her review blog, What is in my….. You can also find her daily fashion picks at Fashion Find.