As this is the month where it seems all you see on the TV, on the cover of magazines, and in headlines across the internet are discussions about weight loss and exercise; I thought I would chime in with an article about the clothing essentials you’re going to need to work off those lbs. The assortment of pieces that I’m suggesting you buy if you don’t already have them, are tried and true essentials (by me), that will allow you to conquer almost any sport comfortably, confidently and in style. And also as I’m a big fan of multi-tasking, often adding on a morning full of errands post-workout, these are also pieces that you can feel confident running around town in.

Top 10 Workout Wear Items (and why):
1. Track pants. Ah, track pants, where would I be without you in my life? I guess I’d be in sweats and although I love a good pair of sweatpants if you want to look like an athlete and not a couch potato during your workout or while running errands these pants are essential, so find the fit that works for your body and invest in a pair or three.
2. Three-quarter running pants. This is my favorite style of running pant as I think they are the most flattering (dare I say sexy), for any body type.
3. Yoga/Pilates-style pants. As a huge fan of Pilates I can tell you these pants are the key to a comfortable workout. Although running pants will work for most any sport you choose, they can’t offer the soft stretch that these pants will give you.
4. Long sleeve shirt. I wear this style of shirt for my runs on crisp SF mornings when wearing a jacket would be too much and just a tee would be too little.
5. Short sleeve shirt. This shirt is the one you’ll be wearing for any sport and one you’ll wear year-round as you can layer over it as needed.
6. Fleece Vest. On cooler days this piece is imperative as it will give you that extra layer of warmth you need, where you need it and allows the rest of you to stay cool. I layer this vest over everything from a short sleeve shirt during spring and fall, to a lined jacket in the winter.
7. Lined Jacket. This jacket is a key layering piece for fall and winter and is one that you’ll wear doing everything from walking the dog to a run though the park.
8. Lighter weight jacket. This jacket is the one you’ll wear over everything on days that are cool, but not cold. For bike rides where I know I need a layer, but seem to vary widely in body temperature throughout the workout, I wear just my workout bra and this jacket.
9. Athletic bra and socks. Because these are basics I decided I could combine these two, and although these two items may seem like pieces you can skimp on, I urge you not to. If you want to be comfortable while on a run, especially during certain times of the month you’re going to need some quality support. And if you want to avoid athlete’s foot, sweaty foot or stinky foot – invest in some ventilated short socks.
10. New Balance running shoes. I’ve been running for almost 20 years and this brand has proven to be the best as far as giving proper support and comfort. Unfortunately when it comes to running shoes or any shoe that you’re going to wear for miles of walking, it’s really not about looking cute but about taking care of your feet so I encourage you to talk to an athletic shoe expert before you invest in a pair that’s right for you.

Lastly, if I could add an eleventh non-apparel item that I consider a must-have when working out by myself, it would be the iPod shuffle as there’s not a better lightweight musical companion/motivator on the market.

Jennifer Bakken is a San Francisco based wardrobe consultant.
For more information: cabinetdenvie.com.