Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Fitness and Fashion...

Hi everyone,

I never thought I'd be saying this again, but a couple of months ago, I joined the gym! I've never been good with consistent exercise (except for my dancing years, of which there were 10!!) but since then, I haven't had the motivation to stick to it. I stopped dancing when I was 18, due to university and work commitments, and decided to join the gym....

After a few months, I couldn't find the motivation to go. The gym I went to didn't hold many classes and I was fairly shy and self-conscious that I didn't want to attend a class by myself. I stuck to the women's section of the gym for cardio and weights, with the occasional Pilates class. Since I was a student, I got student prices and when I stopped going, I wasn't too worried about losing the cost of my membership.

However, many years later, here I am again - a member of a gym. However, this time, I'm a lot more motivated! I've been going to the gym several times a week, for cardio, weights and classes! The plus of my gym is that there are so many classes to choose from, PLUS they have other gyms that hold different classes as well which I can attend if I wish.

I found I wasn't happy with my gym attire, as it was from when I was 18. I had two 3/4 pants that flared out at the knee and two baggy t-shirts that had shrunk in the wash. I felt frumpy when I was working out! For six weeks, I looked for nice gym clothes that wouldn't break the bank, but never succeeded. I was losing hope! Finally, a friend convinced me to have a look at Lorna Jane. Now, all I knew about Lorna Jane was that they stocked gym clothes that were expensive!

Nevertheless, one Sunday, I set off to the shops to have a look. I didn't have high expectations, as I hadn't found anything so far...However, once I had gathered several pieces on my arms, I entered the dressing room. I was impressed! Singlets, shirts, pants and crop tops were ALL comfortable and proved to be great for maximum-effort workouts (proven by my jumping and dancing around the massive dressing room). I found that I was the one size for everything - another convenient factor!

Now the trouble was deciding what to buy! I ended up with several outfits...I got some items on sale, as well as full-priced items. I mentioned that it was expensive, but I figured if I bought fantastic-quality clothing that would last longer, I was better off than having to constantly buy cheap clothing that wore quickly. Also, Lorna Jane uses a specialised fabric for their clothing that is great for working out. 

Not only do the outfits feel comfortable and look great, I feel more confident in myself and always feel I look fantastic while working out! Plus, getting to mix-and-match tops and bottoms is always fun! I didn't think I'd be interested in workout fashion, but here I am...

I would definitely recommend having a look at Lorna Jane if you are in need of workout clothes...spending the little extra is worth it, I promise! Plus, there are always sale items available (at stores and online). There are also special offers available - I scored a new (and cute!) gym bag for $50, instead of $90 :)

Let me know if you've purchased Lorna Jane clothing or anything about your workout routine and what keeps you motivated!

Saturday, July 7, 2012

My Favourite: Base/Top Coat Polishes!

For a while now, I've been using the same top coat and love it! I haven't seen it for sale in Australia, but I discovered it when my overseas friend sent me a bottle, and when I go overseas, I stock up!


My favourite top coat is INM Out The Door Super Fast Drying Top Coat! It dries my nail polish quicker than other brands I've tested (which claim the same statement about being fast drying!). The only thing that can get frustrating is if the top coat is applied too thickly, it bubbles...


As for base coat, I'm not as fussy - I'll try anything I can get my hands on! Currently, I'm liking L.A. Colors Triple Play (Base/Top/Hardener in one). It dries quick, is smooth to apply and has three benefits!!


I'd love to hear your favourite base/top coats!