<http://schema.org/articleBody>
" If your exercise clothing consists of raggedy old t-shirts and mismatched socks, it might be time to invest in some new fitness apparel. In recent years, workout gear has become fashion-forward with flattering silhouettes, fun prints, and bright colors. While I used to exercise in cotton t-shirts collected over the years, my transition to trendy \u2014 and functional \u2014 workout clothing has made a big difference with my motivation to exercise. And upgrading to something new can actually help to revamp your workout routine, too.  When you look good, you feel good.  Wearing flattering and fun clothes can increase your confidence and therefore your overall performance, helping you get the most out of your workout. A new wardrobe can also work as a motivator to get you to the gym. When you own clothes that you love to wear, you&amp;#039;re more likely to find excuses to wear them. This can help make a trip to the gym go from a chore to an activity you look forward to. A new wardrobe can turn exercise into a social routine.  Instead of going to brunch on the weekends, I put on my favorite workout gear and catch up with my girlfriends at an exercise class. I once got the same excited feeling when wearing a new outfit out to eat. And it&amp;#039;s not just me! Every Saturday morning I see the same groups of women in my barre class looking stylish and having fun exercising with friends. You work harder when you&amp;#039;re comfortable.  The newest exercise clothes are not only trendier, but are generally much more comfortable than an old t-shirt. Moisture wicking fabrics will keep you cool and dry, whereas cotton t-shirts can stay soaked with sweat and hinder your workout. Trendy doesn&amp;#039;t have to mean expensive.  For a new, stylish exercise outfit, you can look at athletic brands (like Target&amp;#039;s C9 by Champion, Nike, or Under Armour) or fashion brands that have their own athletic line (such as Calvin Klein, Old Navy, and Land&amp;#039;s End). With so many inexpensive options, investing in a new outfit doesn&amp;#039;t have to break the bank. Plus, you&amp;#039;ll be more likely show off your stylish deal, meaning you&amp;#039;re more likely to frequent the gym. Lexie Sachs is a textiles product analyst in the Good Housekeeping Research Institute. Photo credit: mauro grigollo/E+/Getty Images NEXT: Our Top-Rated Sports Bras \u00BB "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/institute/a23958/exercise-clothes-motivation/>