Winter is nearly over. How good is that? I’m so over having to wear fifteen layers every time I step out of the house. I’m sick of having to take a coat everywhere and I’m even sick of wearing boots.

A lot of things fall by the wayside in winter. Personally I become a bit lax with the leg shaving, my fake tanning regime becomes a random event and my hair looks a bit worse for wear from all the exposure to hot and cold air.

Also, I’ve spent a great deal of time during the winter months sitting on the couch and overindulging in pasta, chocolate and cheese.

So naturally I’ve grown a little lumpy and now I’ve had to join the gym. I’ve become one of those annoying active people.

I have personal training, I go to boxing classes, I run on treadmills, use rowing machines, balance on Swiss balls, perform lunges and I’ve even done a couple of chin ups.

I always feel great after a workout, but some nights I literally have to drag my lazy butt to the gym – I’m lacking that extra motivation.

But then it came to me – I just need to go shopping. Most people (myself included) go to the gym in their most hideous outfits. Faded old leggings, daggy and baggy old t-shirts, crappy tracksuits and all the rest.

But who said you can’t look nice at the gym? There’s no reason why you can’t be active, comfortable and look fabulous all at the same time. Yes, perhaps you end up all red-faced and sweaty but everything is more fun when you’re wearing a fabulous outfit.

Also I figure that if I buy new gym clothes I’ll want to go to the gym to show them off – there’s my extra motivation!

So today I’m hitting the shops and decking myself out in some sweet gym clothes. Here are my tips for what to look for in workout gear.

The look

Remember the 80s, when people used to do aerobics classes wearing those hideous g-string bodysuits over three-quarter-length tights? Well, they’re over (thank goodness!).

These days active wear is all about looking super-sleek. Think about layering – shorts over leggings, loose singlets over tight ones, a big slouchy knit over everything else.

Greys and blacks will keep you looking good outside the gym, but don’t be afraid to have some fun with colour. Look for versatile pieces that you can roll up and down; they provide more warmth on cooler days.

Fabrics

Lycra is super snug and allows for more movement. Cotton jersey absorbs more moisture, while Supplex – a new heavy-duty spandex – provides support and has the added bonus of smoothing out lumps and bumps.

Where to shop: Head to adidas and check out the Stella McCartney’s fashion-forward and technologically advanced range.

Nike always have great basics and a huge range of styles to choose from.

If you want to get crazy with colour, check out American Apparel for interesting tights and leggings and some seriously comfortable tees and singlets – perfect for layering.

 Dressing for your body shape:

 

If you’re petite: Go for the Lycra in a single colour – this will create the illusion of length. Avoid cropped tights and long tops, this just makes you look shorter.

If you’re a pear: Fuller pants will help balance you out and a thick contrasting band down the side of your leg gives you a leaner look. A bright or patterned top will draw attention to your assets.

 

 

If you’re tall: You’re lucky enough to be able to wear cropped tights or capri cuts. Layer singlet tops and t-shirts for some added style.