Fundamental Fit: Accessorizing the black suit

By: LL
Not many things can be more boring than a black suit. Yes, it is a fundamental piece to have in your wardrobe, but it can seem so stale and forgettable. So, what are some good ways to make this fundamental piece fit better in your colorful wardrobe? This is a question that I work with quite a lot in my current work situation (which as I stated in this post, is supposed to be business casual, but has ended up more professional than that). Whereas I am able to add a little flair to my daily "uniform," I am sometimes stuck in situations where it is frowned upon to be too flashy.

When trying to style outfits in these circumstances, I use a tip that I learned when I was first starting out in the professional workforce, which is to ACT: Add Color and Texture.

Color: A subtle pop of color can go a long way while still looking classic and not looking cheap. Whether it be in your top, your accessories, or your shoes. Unlike my weekend looks, I try to keep my color palate simple and not mix too many distinct colors/shades (don't want any of the older ladies to faint!). If you are one who only invests in classic colors for work tops and shoes, then add in the accessories. Try a statement necklace or scarf...or what about a nice brooch to brighten up the top half! Bracelets are always a good way to add in a few other colors to compliment your main color piece.

Texture: Nothing gives a boring outfit more pizzazz than the dimension that comes with mixing textures. If your suit is plain or subtly patterned (think very faint pinstripes or plaids) add in some bold textures on top, whether that is from your blouse or scarf. And then compliment that texture will something different in your shoes, such as leopard or suede. Keep in mind that too much bold print with the texture might overwhelm the outfit and you'll wind up looking cheap (aka too much animal print).

And, you can always mix in a few trendier business separates, like a seasonal blazer or a pencil skirt with pleating at the back vent.

Here is on way to accessorize a black suit:

Here is a look at the way that I am accessorizing my suit today:

I recently picked up the turquoise J.Crew Bubble necklace and have already worn it to work twice (with a steeper price, I have to get my fair share of wears), and these tan ruffle & bow pumps are probably one of my most comfortable pair of heels! Perfect for a presentation to potential donors!

Details:
Suit: The Limited Travelers Suit
Lace Top: New York & Company
Necklace: J.Crew
Watch: Pulsar
Suede Pumps: Apt. 9 (Kohls - 3 years ago)

Guest Fits: Pregnancy Fits

Guest Fit: Em (one of our sisters):

LL and Jess asked me to give them some ideas for maintaining fitness while pregnant.  I am not an expert, so please consult your doctor before beginning any fitness routine.  All I can do is share about my experiences so far…

(Here's a pic of Em running the Turkey Trot at Thanksgiving, when we first found out she was pregnant!

 She's the one in the red hoodie)

When you first learn you are pregnant, you will hear a lot of “can’ts” – you can’t ride a bike, you can’t downhill ski, you can’t go horse-backing riding… But there are still a lot of “cans”!  

Running: 

My doctor said I could continue jogging since I had been running regularly prior to being pregnant.  I did have to slow down my pace, and I regularly monitor my heart rate to make sure it’s not too high, but I am still out jogging!  In fact, at 5 months I competed in a 5k race and took 9^th in my age bracket (against many non-preggo ladies)!  

As my belly starts to expand (now at 26 weeks…), I have found jogging is not as easy.  For greater comfort, I wear a supportive running belly band that works well to reduce the “bouncing” of my belly.  

My jogging is not for speed, and sometimes I need to slow to a brisk walk.  Walking itself is a great pregnancy exercise (Walking is a fundamental fit, as LL posted about here).  

Walking: 

I even convinced work colleagues to join a "10k-a-day" program where we each wear step counters and try to walk more than 10,000 steps per day.  This has led us to lunchtime 30-minute walks, not only giving us some exercise, but reducing our work stress by getting us outside in the fresh air and sunshine!  I have also found walking with my husband to be another great way to keep moving.  While walking, we share fun ideas for baby names, nursery themes, and other non-baby topics.  

Volleyball:

I have also continued playing volleyball once a week.  I certainly do not jump as high as I used to, and diving for the ball is off-limits, but volleyball is low-impact and non-contact and has remained a great way to keep in shape!  I have also been using an elliptical trainer quite a bit more – my belly bounces less, and the motion is lower impact than running.

Stretching/Yoga:

Many pregnancy planning books have exercise suggestions – a lot of them recommend stretches to keep you flexible and prepare your body for childbirth.  One of my books gives some light lifting exercises – a great way to tone my arms and increase my strength for carrying a little bundle of joy!

My hope is to stay active throughout my pregnancy to help with my recovery after the baby arrives.  I feel very fortunate that this pregnancy has been smooth and without complications.  I have been told that my regular exercise routine is likely to help me to have less aches and pains, reduce my stress and help me sleep better, making for a better pregnancy.  And if all goes to plan, I will spend time on my maternity leave getting back into shape and enjoying walks with my new baby!  Now, I just need to find a good jogging stroller…

Throwing a Fit: Spring Wardrobe

By: LL
I don't know who wants it to be spring more - those of you who are getting hit with a late winter, who haven't seen your warm weather clothes in months, or those of us who are continually teased by the spring, and after spending the day deciding whether to pull out spring clothes, by the time you do, it is cool again. And then, any time you turn on TV or open a magazine, spring looks are staring you in the face. This is probably the longest season transition of them all (or at least it feels like it).

So, on a warm day like today, I am throwing a fit over all the amazing spring looks that I would prefer to be wearing right now.

From left to right:
Ruche, J.Crew, J.Crew, H&M, ASOS (on sale now!), Dorothy Perkins

I'm excited to fill my closet with bright bottoms, mint pieces, graphic florals, and the flowing fabrics that we all know and love for spring. And, of course, it will be nice to sport bare legs again!

Favorite Fit: Brooks Adrenaline Running Shoes!

By Jessie

One of the many great things about running is that there really is just one VITAL  piece of equipment- SHOES.

Yes, we runners do spend a lot of money on apparel (hence my husband’s rant #9 here). We do end up spending money on fuel, fuel belts, socks, body-glide, race registrations, run club memberships, winter running gear (like yak traks, gloves, hats, head lamps), etc. but honestly, the most vital piece of equipment is the shoes.

I have been running in Brooks Adrenaline for 6 years. This 6 year time period has included 11 marathons- this shoe is the “RIGHT FIT” for me.

I originally selected this shoe based on advice from my local running store, Marathon Sports

Like many running stores, they offer an in-store gait analysis. They also suggest that you bring in your worn pair, so they can see the pattern of wear, and use their knowledge of gait/shoe wear to make a solid recommendation for your purchase.

Based on their recommendation, I have continued to be loyal to the Brooks year after year (it’s the right fit!)

Yet, even though the Brooks Adrenaline have done me well, I had to wonder if the “grass was greener” in another brand…So last summer, I went out on a limb, and decided to try a new shoe, the Mizuno Wave Rider. 

Was I SURE the Brooks Adrenaline were the best for me? Maybe there is something better out there???

I headed to the same store (Marathon Sports) that made the Brooks Adrenaline recommendation for me. I tried on a pair of Mizuno Wave Riders- they felt light and I loved the color (clearly not a good reason to pick a pair of shoes!) They seemed to fit okay….

I did one short run, and one long run in my new fancy Wave Riders…and the blisters on my feet were unbearable. At first I thought I could tough it out. Maybe it was just my feet adjusting to the new shoes? But alas, it was too painful.

I quickly returned the shoes.

Marathon Sports accepts returns up to two weeks after purchase, as long as there is minimal wear. They did give me a slightly disapproving look when I returned the shoes, questioning my interpretation of“minimal wear” but they still accepted them. (Thank you!)

I returned the Mizuno’s, and purchased another pair of Brooks Adrenaline ASAP!

Ah, the joy and comfort to my sore feet! 

LESSON LEARNED! Why mess with something if it’s not broken?

I recently purchased my zillionth pair online (free shipping on BrooksRunning.com !) Now I will have a new pair on hand when I start to notice my old pair is “dying”.

So how do you know when your shoes are dead?

Try on a new pair of the model that you are currently wearing.

Compare this to your current shoes.

If the cushioning in your shoes feels dead in comparison, it probably is.

Time for a new pair!

Track your shoe’s life/mileage

I haven’t always been that diligent about counting the miles on my shoes. The recommended mileage is between 350-550 miles, but this can definitely vary based on your running style, body weight, and the surface on which you run. If you run about 25 miles a week, you should replace your shoes every 3-4 months. I usually end up with more miles than 25/week, so my plan is to replace my shoes at least between every marathon, plus one more pair. With 3 marathons last year, that’s 4 pair a year.

It's definitely important to replace your shoes in a timely fashion. Running in old or worn out shoes can lead to an increase in running injuries. Over time, running shoes lose stability and shock absorption capacity. When this happens, the stress to the feet and legs increases dramatically. This added stress can lead to an overuse injury. The solution is often very simple- replace your shoes!

And what to do with your old pair? RECYCLE!

In my area, I know that Marathon Sports offers a recycling program, as well as the Nike store at the Mall of America.

This link at Runner’s World offers a whole list of options:

http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-240-319--10041-0,00.html

So what brand do you run in and why? 

Share your tips and experiences with us, so we can help others find the RIGHT FIT in running shoes!

Fits on the Road: Planning for Big Sky (Pt.2)

By: LL
As I mentioned last week, my husband and I are preparing to join to Cool J and D-Man in Big Sky for a long weekend of skiing. In this post, I discussed the fitness fashion that I will pack to ensure that I have functional, yet cute options to wear while getting some good exercise out on the slopes. Today, I wanted to discuss what I am planning to bring to look cute away from the slopes - apres ski anyone??

What's Going in my Suitcase:

1. Gray Cashmere Snood - TJ Maxx
2. Chambray Shirt - Levi's
3. Cream Slouchy Hat - Marshall Ward
4. Peace Ski Sweater - Dale of Norway
5. Brown Crossbody - Cole Haan
6. Black Wool Leggings - Dorothy Perkins
7. Striped Wool Knee Highs - Hue
8. Cognac Boots - Steve Madden

I am really looking forward to a quick little vacation and my husband and I being able to spend some time with Cool J and D-Man!

Fresh New Fit: Running in the Spring

By: LL
I love this time of year - when the weather is getting warmer (however slowly that may be) and the daylight hours are getting longer (less need to run with a headlamp). This is one of my favorite times to be a runner. As we all know a good run (or a good workout) can greatly improve your mood, but that good mood is intensified when you have the warm sun on your shoulders at 4:30 in the afternoon. And the temperature is just so that you can run outside without worrying about icicle thongs and numb limbs or heat exhaustion and excessive sweating.

Yesterday, I was lucky enough to get out of work early and was greeted by sunny skies and temperatures in the upper 50s. I couldn't get home fast enough to get out for a run. However, one tricky thing I always struggle with on spring runs is what exactly to wear. In the sun, I would be fine in a short-sleeved top  and shorts. However, in the shade, and with a little breeze, I would need a long-sleeved top and, preferably, capri tights. Since I was going on my 5 mile loop, which is mostly in the shade, I went with capri tights and a light weight long sleeve. As is normally my problem, midway through the run, hitting the steepest gradient and most sun-exposed area, I was cursing myself for the long sleeve.

Either way, I found myself enjoying the run. And since it is still considered "cold" to all the Southerns, the route was relatively empty. So I was able to get into my groove without much distraction. Even reaching that point when you forget you are running - that is until the sun shines on you just right and from the corner of your eye, you catch sight of your moving shadow, and realize just how mechanic and natural running can be. (You know the feeling...)

Here's a quick look at my Instagram documentation of my gear:

For My Run:
- Lululemon Key Cuff (nifty little gift from Cool J and our other sister, EC)
- Adidas Orange Top
- New Balance Capri Tights
- Smart Wool Socks
- Timex Ironman Watch (and pepper spray...not always necessary, but I take it on this route)

No pictured:
- Saucony Pro-Grid Hurricane 13 (in dark pink)

Favorite Fit: Co-ed Sports Leagues

By: LL
I remember back when I was in junior high and high school and all my fits came through team sports. As a kid, I participated in volleyball, basketball, track, and softball. Once sports became more competitive in high school and seasons overlapped, I concentrated on volleyball and softball - with my true passion being volleyball, which is probably why, even though my vertical limitations kept me from playing any varsity sports in college, I continued to play on co-ed leagues. And I still continue that today.

Currently, my husband and I play on a semi-competitive league once a week. In previous years, we played recreational, but this year we finally had the players for a semi-competitive. And just as I remembered it, volleyball is still one of my favorite fits.

Not only is there the camaraderie of a team sport, but it gives me the opportunity to work muscles in ways that I wouldn't get from spin or running. For me, volleyball combines the cardio from spin and running with the strength training from yoga sculpt (especially with all the squatting and lunging that goes on in volleyball).

So, maybe volleyball isn't your sport. But trust me, there are so many co-ed leagues out there that you should easily find something that you enjoy. I have friends who play kickball, softball, racquetball, dodge ball, and soccer at YMCAs or other gyms or community centers. And all of them agree that playing in co-ed sports leagues is one of their favorite fits, just as my volleyball league is one of my favorite fits.

Need some lists of benefits to be interested in joining a league? I occasionally follow the Spark People website, which is a health, wellness, and nutrition website. The other day I came across this article, which discusses the benefits of co-ed sports leagues for adults. Just some of the benefits listed: (1) provides you with something different to do for fitness, (2) helps you be social and meet new people, and (3) you can rekindle your love for sports. So, I strongly encourage you to look into joining a co-ed team in your community. It might just be the right fit you are looking for!

Fit the Bill: Online Sales for Spring

By: LL
Yesterday's post is a tough act to follow, so I am not going to try, rather I will simply tell you about some of the online sales that I have been hitting up over the last few days - ones that you will not want to miss out on. I don't know about you, but I find mid-February to be one of the best and worst times to shop. Best because you can snag some amazing deals on winter clearance and spring previews. And, of course, the worst, because as my husband says, it is so easy to "go broke saving money." But when there is a great sale, you just cannot walk away...or at least I can't!

ASOS US has 70% off in their outlet. And that doesn't mean just winter items. Also pick up some of spring's new trends. And, of course, free shipping both ways.

Patagonia Winter Clearance - up to 50% off until 2/27. I mean, how often can you get 50% off Patagonia fleece and winter jackets?

J.Crew Online Store has 20% off, but the best deal is at the Factory, where items that are already 30% off are now an additional 20% off!

Macy's  has an additional 15% off for Presidents Day (note: most designer items are excluded), but what a great way to stock up on shoes and basics!

Gap has 40% off select styles (today, 2/20, only), and an additional 25% off sale items! Perfect time to try out their bright skinnies!

Old Navy has 15% off online exclusive. Why not stock up on some basics, and check out the Rock Star jeggings in a bunch of new colors. Seriously, cannot beat the price!

Forever21 up to 75% off for Presidents Day. Great reason to try out a trend that you haven't wanted to spend a ridiculous amount on, just in case it doesn't work out for you or you only wear the item one time.

Levi's is offering 25% off for Presidents Day. Chambray? They have a few different styles to choose from and don't forget about their Curve ID jeans.

Kohls is offering too many sales to mention (when aren't they, right?), but here is your chance to pick up the Lauren Conrad items you have been eyeing!

Reward yourself tonight with a fashion piece that you have been wanting, and at a price that fits the bill.

Guest Fits: Married to Fitness

As the husband of Cool J, I was given clearance to write a post addressing what it's like to be married to someone so focused on fitness.  Keep in mind that I'm no slouch myself; I've been running non-stop for the past 23 years, ever since junior high.  However, although we're both runners and share our very active lifestyles there are definitely a few pitfalls:

1. Even though we run different paces, she's always "suggesting" that we run together.  I'm fine backing off a bit for some quality time with the wife but sometimes it can get a bit trying, see numbers 2 and 3.
2. "JUST GO!!". Inevitably at some point in the run she'll feel she's being pushed too hard and ever so lovingly suggest I go on ahead of her.  This is a delicate situation which typically involves lots of reassurances and me dropping back a few paces.  (also applicable in paddle boarding, snowboarding, hiking, biking, snowshoeing...etc)
3. I'll skip delving into the issue too much but for some reason I find myself stopping and waiting outside of porta potties more often when we run together.  In the summer this means getting overwhelmed by the heat when you stop moving and in the winter by the cold.
4. She (read we) registers for absolutely every race anyone even casually mentions in conversation.
5. Vacations have picked up a bit more of a boot camp vibe.  As I said before, I'm no slouch but sometimes sleeping in and enjoying a bloody mary is an important part of a vacation.  Traveling half way around the world to wake up at 6am, enjoy a breakfast of bagels and peanut butter and then cramming in a workout sounds good in theory but....
6. It's not always worth resisting.  If in theory we did decide to enjoy a morning my way, there's the small matter of pent up resentment.  Not sure if there's a word for lack of exercise grumpiness similar to "hangry", but there should be. 
7. How does she keep up this frantic pace of runs, bootcamps, yoga and such?  Sleep.  Yes, typically by 9pm she's out like a light.  During the week it's kind of nice to have my wife, dog and two cats crashed out on me on the couch while I catch up on TV but weekends become a bit restrictive.  Probably not the worst thing in the world though. 
8. Being the best husband in the world, I find myself doing a lot of laundry.  Do you have any idea what it's like to reach shoulder deep into a laundry basket full of  running and hot yoga clothes?
9. $$$$.  You may find it hard to believe but she is not sponsored by any of the companies whose clothes she wears.  That is fully funded by our household.  You're welcome Lululemon.

All of that being said, I love my wife and I love the life we lead, I wouldn't have it any other way.  Ok, maybe a few small changes...

Fitting Debates: Running with Music- I'm a convert!

By Jessie

Months ago, LL posted about the Fitting Debate regarding running with music.
She stated that there two types of runners:
(1) the purists who believe running is a time of peace and solitude - a time to get away from all the noise of life and collect one's thoughts in silence, and
(2) the iPoders, who couldn't imagine running without the distraction and assistance of good tunes.

At the time, I was training with my run club, and there was always someone in my pace group to chat with throughout the miles. It was summer, and plenty of "slow" runners were regulars at the club, and "I didn't need any music!"  I was a purist, who rarely, if ever, listened to music.

Things change in the winter. Though I haven't changed my stance for race day, I am becoming a convert for training runs.  Not as many of my friends are regularly attending the club, nor are they training for a spring marathon. The club still has plenty of runners, but they are just too fast for me! I no longer have the luxury of a constant running companion, and so I have to made a new friend...in an Ipod Nano.

So, I have changed my mind about this Fitting Debate. When running alone, music is necessary! Perhaps I wouldn't feel the same way if it wasn't dark and gloomy here in the Midwest during the winter. If I had sunshine and pretty scenery, perhaps the distraction of some fun tunes wouldn't feel so important. However, this time of year, we all need a little extra motivation, and I found mine with music.

In fact, I have been running with my music so much lately, that my circa-2006 green nano called it quits on me. Luckily, the prices on these devices have decreased drastically over the past 5 years, and I could pick up a new one for only $140. 

And WOW, have they improved since my last one! I went with the 8 GB model rather than the 12 GB one, since I'll be using it primarily for running.

It has a touch screen similar to my iphone. It has a radio function (perfect for the TV's at the gym for those "dreadmill" miles!)

And best of all?

It's PINK :-)

I did my first long run with my new pink device today, and I had a few tidbits of feedback for any new users. I couldn't figure out how to switch songs without taking off my gloves. However, had I read the manual first, I would have learned that a double click on the "on/off" button the top right hand side would have worked. 

I also learned that there are headphones available that will also allow a quick song switch. There is also a device you can buy to wear your nano on your wrist, which seems like a good idea.

Overall, the battery life was strong, and the compact size was quite nice. I would say this was a "RIGHT FIT" for running!

And a few surprisingly motivating tunes that I have found?

Classical music (Bach, Mozart)- Surprisingly, this type of music lets your mind wander, but still seemed to put some spring in my step

Old-school Dave Matthew's Band- a few older tunes popped up the shuffle setting, and I didn't make the move to switch to the next.

Some new hits? I have to admit, the current pop charts include a lot of songs with a good beat, and they are the best for running for me. Today's mix included We are Young by Fun., Stronger by Kelly Clarkson, Good Feeling by Flo Rida, Somebody that I Used to Know by Gotye, Rack City by Tyga. I should be embarrased, but I can't help it. These songs keep me going!

Fits on the Road: Planning for Big Sky (Pt.1)

By: LL
Cool J, D-man, my husband, and I are making the pilgrammage to Big Sky, MT for an extended weekend of skiing/boarding. Since our wedding took up most of our time last year, my husband (a competitive alpine skier in college) and I are excited to be back on the ski trip circuit after a year away - and I am especially excited about all the fits - both in fashion and fitness - that I will get to share with my Northern counterpart!

In preparation for this trip, I have begun planning my looks for the trip. In this post, I am focusing on all the fitness fashion - what I will be wearing when hitting the slopes to get a little exercise during the days.

What's going in my suitcase:

1. Nike Dri-Fit Sports Bra
2. New Balance Performance Base Layer (long sleeve)
3. New Balance Performance Base Layer (pants)
4. Smart Wool Light Cushion Ski Socks
5. Sorel Cumberland Boots
6. Patagonia Re-Tool Snap-T
7. Turtle Fur Neck Gaiter
8. Smart Wool Powder Day Hat
9. Isis Annapurna Soft Shell (REI)
10. Columbia Moonlight Mover II Ski Pants
11. Gordini Challenge XI Gloves
12. Scott Heli Ski Goggles

All I need are the skis, which my husband and I both decided to rent this year. This will reduce the cost of over-sized checked luggage (which caused much distress on our ski trip to VT), and will allow us both to test out new equipment as we prepare to purchase new skis.

I cannot wait for some fun fitness out on the slopes - well, except for the soreness that first day out. But that is what a hot tub and a little wine is for, right?

Fitting Remarks: It's Valentine's Day...

It the spirit of the holiday, here's a "fitting remark" for Valentine's Day:

Here's hoping that you find all the Right Fits for Valentine's Day 2012!

Guest Fit: Vicki on ResoLULUtion Bootcamp

Cool J's friend, Vicki, is a fellow fitness enthusiast who offered to share her recent experience with the ResoLULUtion bootcamp!

"Recently I was on the hunt for some free fitness options that I know are out there if you look hard enough, and are somewhat flexible in your schedule.  I, like the Right Fits bloggers, love fitness and trying new classes/gyms but I spend a lot of money doing that (“it is my hobby/social outlet” is my standard justification to myself on the cost!).  So, to try and lessen my fitness costs a bit, I thought I could start incorporating some free options into my routine when possible. 

One of the places I started looking was my local Lululemon store (http://www.lululemon.com/minneapolis/westend) since I know they offer some free yoga classes.  In looking at their calendar, I noticed they had a free two week boot camp starting the next week!  
2 whole weeks for free??…sign me up! 

This was perfect as I had really been craving a butt-kicking boot camp to get myself back on track after the holidays, but hadn’t been able to justify the cost of one.  The Lulu boot camp was limited to 45 participants, and I was one of the lucky ones to get in.  The sessions were Monday through Friday from 6 to 7 am at the store (they just moved all the middle clothing display racks into the back storeroom).  They brought in a different instructor(s) from local studios/gyms every day with the schedule being intense workouts Monday, Wed and Friday with a good stretching yoga class on Tuesday and Thursday.  So, here we go…here’s a brief summary of the boot camp!

Featured Fit: The Details

By: LL
The little details of an accessory or garment can be the things that make you really love that piece. Yet, many times those details are overlooked by others - under-appreciated - or not captured in photos. But those small things are what can make something unique or functional. I know that I enjoy when catalogues, magazines, online shopping sites, and blogs do features on details, highlighting them and making them the selling points. I know that I have purchased running shorts after seeing the hidden zip pocket or an otherwise plain-looking tank top where the catalogue focused on the intricate lace overlayer.

So, here are the small details of the casual outfit I wore out with our (Cool J's and my) sister, Em, who came to town for a quick stop through last week.

{Plaid piping and textured green beads}

{Gold nautical buttons on a woolen blazer}

{Lace overlaid top - notice how the other details fade away}

Details:
Blazer: Tommy Hilfiger
Lace Top: New York & Co.
Jeans: Citizens of Humanity
Belt: J. Crew
Necklace: LL Original

Featured Fit: Flattering Swimwear for Spring Break

By: LL
As we quickly approach spring break time, many people are planning their trips to warmer climates to enjoy the beach and sunshine. The gyms, having lost some of the Resolution Exercisers, are now experiencing a second wave of exercisers getting fit to be seen in a swimsuit. And, this year, there are many cute new styles of swimsuits for women that are very figure flattering - allowing us to hide a few problem areas (i.e., muffin tops) without sacrificing style. Here are a few great styles from J.Crew's Spring 2012 Collection:

By adding rouching or drapping, you can easily, and discretely, hide your mid-section. By adding a little skirt or an extension to the standard bikini bottom, you can disguise hips and thighs. These are the right fits for how to look on the beach this spring break.


And why not add a stylish cover-up? Here are some of my favorites:

1. American Living (JC Penny)
2. J. Crew
3. Mossimo (Target)
4. TopShop

All of these will easily translate from beach to the boardwalk to cocktails by simply adding a few accessories (all of which would work with any of the cover-ups).

1. Fedora - Aerie
2. Crochet Sandals - Tapeet
3. Metal Resin Bangles - Tasha
4. Leather Carryall - LL Bean
5. Gold Skinny Belt - Eddie Bauer

It is very easy, and affordable, to find the right fit for your spring break (or honeymoon) this spring/summer 2012. And there is no reason to wind up being a failed fit.

Fresh New Fit: The chiffon maxi skirt

By: LL
Even though flowy materials are not necessarily "traditional" for winter, this past season, chiffon maxi skirts (and dresses) have been popping up in fashion (Helena of Brooklyn Blonde's soft chiffon maxi or Lynzy of Sparkling Footsteps's pleated chiffon maxi). Maybe you are interested in incorporating this fresh new fit into your wardrobe, but are waiting until warmer days. Why wait? Break out of the traditional concepts of appropriate outfits for winter and pick up a flowy, fun maxi skirt to begin wearing now and into the summer. Below are a few different ways to style this new fit into winter, spring, and summer. I've used the Fantasia Blue version from Express, which is currently on sale for $34.95 - with multiple sizes remaining!

Layered for Winter:



1. Coral Necklace - Stella & Dot

2. Grey Button-Sleeve Cardigan - Old Navy

3. Citrus Button Down - J. Crew

4. Leopard Calfhair Belt - J. Crew

5. Black Leather Day Bag - Coach

6. Grey Faux Suede Booties - Mossimo (Target)

Showing Some Skin for Spring:

1. Silk Scarf - Finley

2. Striped 3/4 Sleeve T-shirt - TopShop

3. Mustard Mini Crossbody Purse - Cole Haan

4. Camel Suede Sandals - Nine West

Stripped Down for Summer:

1. Gold Necklace - Stella & Dot

2. Crocheted Cropped Tank - TopShop

3. Amanda Adams Beach Bag - J. Crew

4. Gold T-Strap Sandals - Frye

Maxi skirts (and similar dresses) are available in a variety of colors, patterns, and price points. I quickly found this Old Navy version in Parading Peacock for only $9.95. And this beautiful Halston Heritage skirt in Coral for a splurge of $425. So, definitely a lot of variety to this fresh new fit. 

Fits Do Fitness Class Reviews: 20-20-20

By: LL
I was recently asked to work as a sub for a fellow trainer's 20-20-20 class. During my spin instructing sabbatical, I have relished every opportunity to teach and try new classes. However, since I have never taken a 20-20-20 class, I knew that I needed to try out a few before I would feel comfortable filling in. So the other day, I went to my first 20-20-20 over my lunch.

For those of you unfamiliar with the 20-20-20 (or Three Workouts in One), this fitness class combines 20 minutes of cardio, with 20 minutes of strength training, followed by 20 minutes of core/balance with stretching. The class fits nicely into the lunch hour and gives you plenty of time to cool down during the last 20 minutes.

I attended a class taught by Fonda, a petite blonde who's energy was extremely contagious. The cardio portion consisted of low to high to low calesthetics (i.e. burpies, jump rope, step ups, jump squats), which she smoothly transitioned into strength training as she introduced light hand weights into the step ups. During the strength training, she focused on the biceps/triceps, shoulders, hip flexors and lower back, using 3 and 8 lb hand weights and an exercise ball. By the end of the 20 minutes, my legs were tired and I was ready for stretching, but had to get through just over 10 minutes of scissor kicks, side plants, and boat rows.

Even though the class only consisted of about 12 minutes of high energy cardio, that combined with the strength training, core, and stretching made for a tough workout. And even though I knew that each portion would last no more than 20 minutes, it did not make it any easier to get through.

Conclusion: I think that a 20-20-20 class has a very similar structure to other cardio and strength training classes, but it provides participants with a precise timeline. Plus, it is great for a short workout because it combines all three essential exercise components into one power hour - perfect for the lunch hour.

Fit the Bill: Nature Calls

By: LL
How do you feel about wearing a horse-printed blouse? Or what about if it were dogs? Or butterflies, perhaps? Maybe as you read this, you are currently experiencing flashbacks to your favorite screen-printed t-shirts or embroidered cardigans from when you were eight years old.

Well, prepare yourself to start wearing these prints once again. But this time, they will be subtle, non-childish in the form of horses, dogs, birds, and butterflies; all of which are making an appearance in adult fashion, and showing up on fashion blogs (Kendi in Wild Horses or Jessica in Band of Horses).

As as spark to get you thinking about answering "nature's call" and adding these prints to your spring wardrobe, below I've listed a few different pieces that fit the bill.

1. Bird Print Charmeuse Top (Old Navy - $36.94)
2. Stallion Stampede (ModCloth - $59.99)
3. Butterfly Tie-Waist Dress (Old Navy - $34.94)
4. Navy Dog Print Tunic (Dorthey Perkins - $39)
5. Butterfly Print Blouse (Zara - $80)
6. Study of Shape Dog Print Dress (Anthropologie - $158)
7. Gallop of Style Romper (ModCloth $79.99)

Just another fun, affordable way to spice up your wardrobe.

Fits for Men: Craft Beer Festival

By Jessie

It seems very timely that LL just wrote about beer and running here, and then the next night, my husband and I were at a local Craft Brew Festival  I have titled this post "Fits for Men" because even though I enjoy a good microbrew, my husband is definitely the beer "connoisseur" of our relationship. He loves beer- loves drinking it, brewing it, talking about it, reading about it; this event was right up his alley.


The festival was held at the beautiful Minnesota History Center in downtown St. Paul.

Tickets sold out in about 10 minutes, but like I said, the D-man really likes beer, so he ensured we had two tickets in hand for this event.

This craft beer sampling event celebrates beer brewed in Minnesota by the breweries and brew pubs that are current members of the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild. Chase out the winter chill with a multitude of Winter Warmers, hearty food, beer education, entertainment and music.


The participating breweries are listed below. Each one offered up endless 2 oz samples of some of their most unique and limited brews. We tried quite a variety of different brews, some good...some not so good. But fortunately the not so good ones could go straight into this "dumping bucket"

A casual event like this craft brew festival was the perfect opportunity for me to try out my new Stella and Dot necklace!

In fact, these two "German" beer girls said they loved my necklace...or did they love my husband?

There were quite a few people at the event. It spanned three floors of the museum. 

We also talked to some local "celebrities", like Omaur Ansari, owner of Surly Brewing. He also loves beer. And he is a runner. He ran the NYC marathon last year- check out his time here)

It was a fun event, especially for people who are interested in all the different varieties of beer.


And did I run better this morning, as LL's article would suggest? No, I definitely did not.

Participating Breweries:

• August Schell Brewing Co.
• Barley John’s Brew Pub
• Big Wood Brewery
• Boom Island Brewing Co.
• Brau Brothers Brewing Co.
• Carmody Irish Pub & Brewing
• Castle Danger Brewery
• Cold Spring Brewing Co.
• Finnegans
• Fitger’s Brewhouse
• Flat Earth Brewing Co.
• Fulton
• Granite City
• Great Waters Brewing Co.
• Harriet Brewing

• The Herkimer
• Leech Lake Brewing Co.
• Lift Bridge Brewing Co.
• Lucid
• Mankato Brewery
• Olvalde Farhouse Ales
• Rock Bottom Brewery
• Staples Mill Brewing Co.
• Steel Toe Brewing
• Summit Brewing Co.
• Surly Brewing Co.
• Third Street Brewhouse
• Town Hall
• Vine Park