Brand Picks: lululemon
The mecca, the holy grail, the brand our wallets hate to love - lululemon.
I have been a shamelessly loyal lulu gal for years now and above fit and style, I think it really comes down to consistency. Their stuff is expensive but you know you're going to get great value pieces and more often than not, some excellent customer service to go along with them. I personally still wear some leggings from there that I've had for about five years. Can't beat that!
Another huge plus to shopping with lulu is that they truly stand by their product. The educators who work in the store are really just that - educators. They are always super knowledgeable about product & fit, and willing to go above and beyond to make sure you make the right choice based on what you're shopping for and why. Also - pro tip - if you buy a product from there and the quality doesn't hold up, they will usually let you swap it out. It's a bit of an honor system and if any of you abuse it and make them rescind this policy I will never forgive you.
Let's talk styles! Sizing is a bit different than other brands in that it runs from sizes 0-14 rather than XS-XXL, but once you figure out your size it is pretty consistent (there's that word again!) across the board. Here's an official size chart to glance at, but I definitely recommend heading into a store to try some things on to be sure. Whether you're looking for something to get really sweaty in, something for lower impact, or just something to lounge in, you can definitely find it at lululemon. I just happen to have (and love) something from each of these categories so I'll let you in on my favorites!
For your sweaty workouts:
These. things. are. my. FAVE. They come in a couple of different fabric options, but the luxtreme is definitely better for a sweatier workout like spin or running. Their site says that they are designed for yoga but these are truly my favorite and I strictly do yoga about once a quarter. The waist band is great and doesn't roll down, the color holds up, and there is even a little pocket in the waist band for your keys! I personally like the 25" inseam because it falls just at my ankle rather than bunching up at the bottom.
For your less sweaty workouts:
Just about the softest thing you could ever put on your body. These are my go-to for a class like Pilates or barre, & they're also great for lounging or traveling. I will say that these are the only ones I've experienced pilling issues with, but I also wash and dry my leggings with the rest of my clothes which lulu does not recommend.
For lounging & travel
I used to think I couldn't pull off joggers and honestly there's a good chance I still can't, but it doesn't even matter because these are so comfortable. Great pockets, nice cool material, and the waistband isn't super tight like I've found on other joggers!
Tops
This is my favorite cut of any sports bra ever. It's supportive while still having a cute strappy back, and the long line gives you a little bit more coverage. I find that it looks great on everyone even if you don't have washboard abs like the beautiful gal in this photo!
I'd own this in every color if I could afford it. So cozy. I recommend sizing up as it does fit a little on the tighter side!
When it comes down to it, while you could certainly save money by shopping cheaper brands, you know you're going to get your money's worth from lululemon and likely won't need to replace them as often. I'm pretty sure one could make a case for any of their styles being the best but I hope this helps you get your dangerous (but necessary) addiction started!
Let's break it down:
Comfort – 10/10
Fit – 10/10
Durability – 10/10
Best Suited For – HIIT, cardio, yoga, Pilates, traveling
Diversity in Marketing – 7/10 - they're on the right track but could do more with body diversity
Questions? Comments? Hit me on Insta at @emilycollins!
