Choosing Attractive Sportswear

If you're old enough to remember the tracksuits of the seventies, then you're probably cringing at the imagery that that word conjures. Most tracksuits back then were fashioned as active wear, and not sportswear. The tracksuits were worn mostly as a status symbol as casual wear for weekend running of errands. Husbands and wives could be seen wearing matching tracksuits, in all colors, with a wide, white strip running from the waist down the length of the pants leg. The matching jacket was just as atrocious.

Sportswear is clothing worn for purposes of exercise or sports, including footwear. Although many people choose to wear worn sweatpants and tee shirts as sportswear, you can choose functional sportswear that is also attractive. Whether you're choosing a colorful ski jacket for your next swish down the slopes, or a soft pair of colorful cotton/spandex leggings for a yoga session, there are a few things to consider when choosing attractive sportswear. Here are some great tips to keep in mind:

• Choose lightweight fabrics so that you aren't encumbered by the weight of bulky clothes. Loose-fitting garments provide ample room for movement. Polo shirts, crisp walking shorts, and spandex cycling clothing are attractive choices.
• If you're going to be outside in the winter, layer your clothes with cotton against the skin to absorb moisture, and then a layer of insulating material, topped off by a waterproof jacket. You could choose a black tee shirt as your first layer, combined with a lightweight cable sweater on top, and then a bright insulated snow jacket and coordinating boots to complete the look.
• During very hot and humid weather, simply wear one layer to wick moisture away from the body. Choose tanks tops of various colors, and coordinate them with cycling shorts, walking shorts, or attractive sweat pants.
• Don't overlook footwear as part of your sportswear ensemble. You can choose functional and practical shoes that are also attractive. Visit your local shoe store to find shoes of all colors and design to pair with your clothing.

Try to avoid the trendy clothing that seems to fade out of style nearly as quickly as it hits the stores. Instead, choose classic designed pieces of active wear that will last throughout the years. It might be best to always choose separates to mix and match, rather than purchasing one tracksuit.