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Fashion Blog: Workout Chic On Campus

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Illinois chapter.

While most people associate going to the gym with wearing old T-shirts and sweats, times have changed and this is a way of the past. It was only a matter of time before someone would tap into this vast market, thus, making certain workout attire “in style” while others out. As crazy as this might seem, some workout enthusiast know when an ensemble is last season. Evolving at an incredible rate, brands have expanded their lines to include this style in order to meet the growing demand.
 
For the past couple years, lululemon has risen in the ranks to be deemed the Chanel of workout chic. Rumor has it that they even use silver in their products (yes, I have heard this urban myth before) to get that desired look and stretch. Ranging from chic yoga looks to the crème de la crème of running outfits, lululemon has marketed itself as the best. Not to mention, their stuff looks good. So, the next time you are outside or at the gym, observe the many little silver omega looking signs you are guaranteed to see — that is how you will know you are in the midst of a lululemon phenomenon.


 
Even though lululemon has quickly invaded the wish lists of men and women alike, there are other wonderful brands that are just as dependable. Lucy is another workout brand that has become a hit at the gym. I personally like how lucy markets itself as not only workout friendly, but also offering casual chic, everyday looks. This brand does not limit itself to the tiny workout clothes fad that many women insist on wearing. If you are looking for a comfortable workout look that translates well into other daily activities, I recommend investing in some lucy apparel.
 
Another great brand that is easily accessible for Collegiette’s on campus is Express. Express Sport, which you can buy at the Express in the Champaign mall, features trendy workout looks that are perfect for women our age. Their workout crop tops are so cute that you could even wear one to class and then go straight to the ARC (Activities and Recreation Center). Even though this collection is not as large compared to lululemon and lucy, their products are young, fun and perfect for the college budget.


 
No matter what workout brand you love and swear your life on, make sure you actually wear workout clothes the next time you go to the gym. Wearing tops, pants and shorts that are specifically designed for working out are way better for you and your overall workout. Allowing your body to breathe in a more natural way, these outfits will make you feel refreshed instead of hot and sweaty. Regardless if you wear another brand besides lululemon, lucy and Express Sport, wearing workout clothes will enhance your motivation to be fit and look fabulous while still in college.


Emily Cleary is a 22-year-old news-editorial journalism major hoping to work in the fashion industry, whether that be in editorial, marketing, PR or event planning is TBD. With internships at Teen Vogue and StyleChicago.com, it's clear that she is a fashion fanatic. When she's not studying (she's the former VP of her sorority, Delta Delta Delta), writing for various publications or attending meetings for clubs like Business Careers in Entertainment Club, Society of Professional Journalists, The Business of Fashion Club, or for her role as the Assistant Editor of the Arts & Entertainment section of her school's magazine, she's doing something else; you will never find her sitting still. She loves: running (you know those crazy cross-country runners...), attending concerts and music festivals, shopping (of course), hanging out with friends, visiting her family at home, traveling (she studied abroad in London when she was able to travel all over Europe), taking pictures, tweeting, reading stacks and stacks of magazines and newspapers while drinking a Starbuck's caramel light frappacino, blogs and the occasional blogging, eating anything chocolate and conjuring up her next big project. Living just 20 minutes outside of Chicago, she's excited to live there after graduation, but would love to spend some time in New York, LA, London or Paris (she speaks French)!