Fashion

Gym Time to Play Time

March 11, 2016
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Basic black leggings are a staple in EVERY woman’s closet, especially fitness fanatics and gym goers!  With just a couple easy changes, you can go from daytime workout mode to evening mode!

DISCLAIMER: this post is sponsored by Vocalpoint and DICK’s Sporting Goods. All opinions expressed are my own.

** Today I’m partnering with ® Dick’s Sporting Goods and giving away a $50 GIVEAWAY for YOU to shop!  Read details below! **

Now that I’ve learned where the limits are with my body and how far I can push before it fights back, workouts ARE commencing my friends!!!!  So. Excited.  What better way to celebrate this monumental occasion than with some retail therapy?!  However, unlike most of my shopping excursions, I had very specific things I was looking for.  Since I’m going to try and workout in the late afternoon now, I was on the hunt for some clothes that would allow for an EASY transition from “gym time to play time”.  Normally our afternoons are SO jam packed now with my daughters volleyball schedule.  I need to go from workout mode to looking somewhat “No, I didn’t just get done working out” mode.  I knew exactly where to start building my dual purpose outfits.

Please give a round of applause to my absolute FAVORITE item in my closet…

Black Leggings.  They are basically every fit woman’s fashion BFF.  Comfortable, stretchy, forgiving with just about any body type, and perhaps the most versatile article of clothing in your closet.  Although my activity level has taken a drastic turn this past year doesn’t mean I still don’t live in these magical pants.  Sure some may argue that yoga pants are probably even better for comfort, but what I love most about the basic black legging is how easy it is to change up your look.  Wearing your basic ‘black legging’ can allow for an effortless transition from workout mode to going out in public mode!  Might I say it’s perhaps the most versatile article of clothing ever?!

In addition to my leggings, I wanted to grab a few new things!  My shopping list was very specific.  Lightweight sweaters/outer wear, cute tops, and possibly even a dress or tunic.  Everything needed to be easy, comfortable, and of course work with the black leggings I normally wear to work out.  I wanted to be able to get a quick afternoon workout in, change my shoes, throw something over whatever top I was wearing, and jump in the car for evening practice or dinner.

Where do I go for all things fitness and sporty?  ® Dick’s of course.  Duh.  Their women’s clothing sections continue to impress me and I was positive I could find EVERYTHING I had in mind.  Let’s do this.

Dressing up basic black leggings

First stop was the HUGE section for Calia by Carrie Underwood.  I was already familiar with the products available and knew I could find exactly what I was looking for here.  What I didn’t know until I spoke with a ® Dick’s sales associate was that Carrie’s entire line was created for my EXACT needs. Literally, the line was made to be cute, comfortable, and totally functional for the average everyday woman & mom!

Calia by Carrie Underwood

Last sentence in the first paragraph… spot on right??!!!

And fortunately I don’t really sweat, BUT knowing the materials used in the Calia line will limit moisture, draw heat away from the body, and keep me cool is definitely an added bonus.  But wait, check out the text under “BodyFree”.

My sentiments exactly… I should be able to find everything I need in just this area of the store!

Calia by Carrie Underwood

So first stop… Calia!  Definitely Calia.  Do you see the size of this section???  I couldn’t even fit it all in the picture frame!

Dressing up basic black leggings

I loved seeing the mix of bright colors and patterns, but also finding many pieces that were neutral in color (gotta balance fashion out right?).  Trusty black leggings, colorful top to workout in (because colors make me happy), cute things to wear OVER the tank tops (that will dress things up a bit), and then a quick change of shoes.  No problem.

But wait.  Beat still my heart.  A vest.  If you’ve read some of my fashion posts, you will know I’m a sucker for vests. This gray puffer one was meant for me to buy.  It was the only one left and happened to be a size XS!

Leggings, your short or long sleeve workout top, and a pair of boots.  Workout to running errands just like that.

Vest= Sold.

Dressing up basic black leggingsDressing up basic black leggings

Checked out a few other tops, grabbed a new pair of black leggings (because a woman can NEVER have enough good black leggings), and even though I think I had everything I needed… one more stop to another favorite area.  Not sure what the section is called, but a lot of ® Dick’s Roxy, Quiksilver, Hurley, and more “beachy”style clothes are here.  The perfect section for San Diego casual that would work perfectly with some black leggings!

Dressing up basic black leggings

I wasn’t on the hunt for shoes this time, but my daughter ALWAYS is.  We couldn’t get out of the store without her trying on at least 4 pairs!!!  A sucker for shoes just like her momma!

Dressing up basic black leggings

In & Out in less than 20 minutes and I didn’t even need to try anything on.  Praise Jesus.  My kind of shopping trip!

Dressing up basic black leggings

Alright, so lets take a peek at what I got and how I put my new outfits together.

Day 1.

On this particular day, I actually didn’t “workout” per se.  My husband did though while I took some time to simply stretch.  This was my first week in quite a while feeling “good” with minimal pain, so I wanted to ease into things.  One thing I’ve learned over the last seven months since my spinal cysts were found is finding balance with activity.  I’ve already thrown myself into flares pushing my body too much, too soon.  Not anymore.  I worked on some mobility and stretching on Day 1… good enough for me!

Dressing up basic black leggings

My new vest makes it’s first appearance… this is not necessarily an “evening”/go out look but adding the vest to what I ‘worked ou’t in adds just enough to make people think I didn’t just come from the gym!  A more sporty casual look I think!  The outfit worked out great because after we picked up the kiddo from school, we took a trip to the local Farmer’s Market.  Totally appropriate!

Dressing up basic black leggings

Day 2.

No spin class for this girl, but while my husband lifted I hopped on a few cardio machines to see how my body would tolerate the movements.  Stair climber was a no go, treadmill and rowing machine would be good options, and then I checked out the bike for 10 minutes!  Not sure if I could go much longer in the same position, but knowing I can go 10 minutes at a very slowish pace without issues makes me very happy!!!  This might be a good option for me to warm up or cool down once regular workouts commence!

Dressing up basic black leggings

Immediately following our workout, it was time to get our daughter at school, get her to the orthodonist, and then off to volleyball practice!  Easy peasy.  I brought my NEW Volcom “Free to Go” wrap over my Roxy top and a pair of boots.  Quick ‘change’ in the car, less than 1 minute, and boom.  New ‘outfit’ thats totally appropriate for errands and watching sports activities !

Dressing up basic black leggingsDressing up basic black leggings

Day 3.

Time to step things up a bit and see if I’m ready to start lifting!  Before I contact my coach for a program, I needed to see where my boundaries were with the weights, how much I could do safely, and how many exercise/sets/reps I could handle at a time.  This was the first real lifting trial day and although I was only able to do body weight or very low weight, I completed 6 exercises, 3 sets, 10 reps!!!  That’s HUGE, amazing, and promising news for me!

Dressing up basic black leggings

Dinner time!!!  No problem my love.  I will be ready by the time you get your shoes on… nope I don’t need to “change”.

Dressing up basic black leggings

Black leggings, my new Calia seamless tank, a change of shoes, some jewelry, and one of my new favorite things in the closet.  Calia’s “Effortless Striped Cocoon Sweater“!!!  I think it was the very first thing I picked up at ® Dick’s.  Love at first sight.  Totally my style, great pattern and color, SO comfortable, and easy to throw on!  Bonus… sleeves with the little thumb cut out always put a smile on my face.  So cute.

Dressing up basic black leggings

Day 4.

My last workout of the week consisted of some more stretching and I also attempted some core work (unsuccessfully).  I woke up not feeling 100%, but also didn’t want to lose the momentum I have going on.  My goal now is to simply move ANYTIME I can!!!  I will take ANY amount of minutes away from laying down on my couch or bed!  I’m thankful simply being able to stand and walk around for a bit.  Stretching is better than nothing!

Dressing up basic black leggings

Time to ‘change’ and head out the door!!!  Dinner date with friends!

Dressing up basic black leggings

This was a super easy outfit transition because I didn’t even have shoes on while I worked out!  All I needed to do was throw on this NEW gorgeously adorable Roxy “Wish You Were Here” top, some jewelry, and slip on a pair of heels!

See, it doesn’t take much to transition your gym look to a casual afternoon or evening look!  Shoes, a layering top, accessories, a quick run of your fingers through with your hair, and maybe some makeup if you are into that kind of thing!  Effortless fashion!  I knew I could count on ® Dick’s for the exact style of clothes I had in mind.

Crossing my fingers that my body holds up and I can continue on this path!  For now, you can find me slowly working my way back to lifting AND of course enjoying my new goodies from ® Dick’s!

Are YOU ready to shop now???

Rules are simple… leave me a comment on this post letting me know how YOU would dress up your favorite black workout leggings!!!  I want more fashion ideas to transition from gym mode to mommy activity mode!!!  Comments need to be posted by Friday, March 18, 2016 | 11:59pm!!!  Winner will be selected and contacted by ® Dick’s Sporting Goods to receive your $50 GIFT CARD!

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61 Comments

  • Reply
    Lindsey B
    March 11, 2016 at 5:20 pm

    I like to wear them with knee high boots and a tshirt with a sweater.

  • Reply
    Jill
    March 11, 2016 at 5:21 pm

    How wouldn’t I dress it up?! I live in black leggings and would paid I with pretty much ANYTHING from Calia line- I stare at everything and imagine how I would pair and wear! Sweater and boots, shawl and flats, I love a slouchy sweater, boots, and leggings, as a go to….

  • Reply
    Amanda
    March 11, 2016 at 5:24 pm

    I absolutely love Dicks Sporting Goods! I go in there every once in a while to find good deals. The quality of their clothes are always worth it.

    I work in I.T and it is very hard for me to find clothes are that are suited for business, fashionable, and I can easily move around. There is no telling when I will be up on a ladder in the ceiling, crawling under a desk, or carrying computers up a few flights of stairs. So leggings I can go from work to the gym right after ARE SO PERFECT! I usually find that some of my leggings are not gym friendly, or work friendly. The Calia’s “Effortless Striped Cocoon Sweater”, seems perfect for work and goes great with the black leggings! I seriously need like 10 pair of these leggings!!!

  • Reply
    Megan
    March 11, 2016 at 5:29 pm

    There’s nothing I love more than black leggings! You can wear your black leggings as work out gear with a t-shirt and tennis shoes or knee high boots with a cardigan. A nice shirt, sweater, or casual shirt with your leggings and flats are my go to. Casual cute shirt, jean jacket and flats could be worn anywhere! ??

  • Reply
    Lauren
    March 11, 2016 at 5:37 pm

    Hi Corina! Love your outfit choices! Black leggings have become a staple in everyday style- I even see people in the workplace wearing them!

    I love pairing my black leggings with an over sized sweater and knee high boots. If its really cold, then an over sized scarf is the best accessory! Now that spring is right around the corner, I have been trying to build up my collect of extra long, button down blouses. They are great on the go, and flattering on every body type just like those leggings! With some extra statement jewelry they are great for a night out.

    Love the Cocoon sweater! I’m with you- if there is a thumb cutout, BONUS POINTS! You look great, and I’m so happy to hear you’re feeling better! Have a great day!

  • Reply
    Dana Brooke
    March 11, 2016 at 5:37 pm

    I love leggings with long wrap sweaters and ankle boots! All your looks are adorable!

  • Reply
    Melanie Zimmerman
    March 11, 2016 at 5:41 pm

    Ah, Corina I am so excited to hear that you are feeling good and able to work out!!!!! I know that is huge for making you feel like yourself and (your new) normal. And oh my .. lifting!!!!!! 🙂

    It’s about spring here in Pittsburgh and I am feeling a black and white striped tee shirt dress over my black workout leggings and my new olive vest that you inspired me to add to my wardrobe!!!

  • Reply
    Melanie Zimmerman
    March 11, 2016 at 5:43 pm

    And I got the cutest Calia sweater at Dick’s that crosses in the back kind of like your Roxy top.. so cute!!!

  • Reply
    Alma Mitchell
    March 11, 2016 at 5:54 pm

    I’m so glad to see you’re feeling better!!! & you look fabulous! That last outfit has me wanting that green Roxy top…super CUTE! Taking some inspiration from your last outfit, I think a super bright colored tunic, or high low top with 3/4 sleeves, would go great with some basic black leggings. Throw in some statement jewelry & cute wedges or sandals & you’re ready to head out!

  • Reply
    Michelle Guyer
    March 11, 2016 at 5:57 pm

    Great post! I would dress up black leggings by throwing on some cute ballet flats and an army green parka over a white tank! Good to go!

  • Reply
    Fawn
    March 11, 2016 at 6:07 pm

    I never knew about their line, but after seeing the outfits you put together, I love it!
    For my work out I would start with the black leggings and a simple white tank. Then when running errands afterwards would add one of Carrie Underwoods light weight sweaters and a black vest! The layers make it easy to cool off or warm up in the spring weather 🙂

  • Reply
    Kelly Brown
    March 11, 2016 at 6:17 pm

    I absolutely LIVE in my black workout leggings, they are so comfortable! I think the cutest outfit I can make out of them is with my white north face vest (and just about any color 3/4 length shirt under it. It’s so easy to accessorize with watches and bracelets and looks so chic!

  • Reply
    Kate
    March 11, 2016 at 6:28 pm

    Yay! I’m so happy to hear that you are able to start moving more!! I know that must be so exciting for you… Fingers crossed that it continues! I live in my leggings and one cute transition I have found is with black leggings and a basic white tank, I will use a chambray button up or flannel to dress it up. Looks cute with converses for a sporty look!! Have a good weekend!

  • Reply
    Nikki
    March 11, 2016 at 6:29 pm

    Smartwool socks is how I roll no ,after where!

  • Reply
    Lindsey Burns
    March 11, 2016 at 6:33 pm

    I would dress up my black workout leggings with a great pair of boots and a loose fitted plaid shirt and a belt on my waist. 🙂

  • Reply
    Ashley
    March 11, 2016 at 7:30 pm

    Chambray for sure! Love that look with black leggings and a cute statement necklace if I’m feeling fancy!!

  • Reply
    danielle beinke
    March 11, 2016 at 8:10 pm

    I’d pair them with my gray boots and a black and red plaid shirt!

  • Reply
    Liz T
    March 11, 2016 at 8:12 pm

    I used to have some black calf-length yoga leggings with zippers on the sides . It was so much fun to pair those with some heels and leather jacket. Made me feel like Sandy from Grease!

  • Reply
    Leah C
    March 11, 2016 at 9:52 pm

    I could not live without black leggings after having my baby. I wore a cute chambray/denim shirt with a tank top to dress it up a bit. I am so glad that Dick’s has really cute options. I loved all your outfits on this post. So cute!!!

  • Reply
    Camille C.
    March 11, 2016 at 10:24 pm

    Since I live in AZ and summer is coming, I would throw on some cute strappy sandals and a light weight short sleeved cardigan!

  • Reply
    Hailey Atwell
    March 12, 2016 at 12:29 am

    I would wear them with a cute pair of wedge booties and a cute crop top that adds a pop of color!

  • Reply
    Shelby Caldwell
    March 12, 2016 at 2:38 pm

    You look great! Love your blog. I would wear a loose long shirt and boots!

  • Reply
    Marcy
    March 12, 2016 at 9:02 pm

    I would dress up my black leggings by putting on a colorful tunic, necklace, and some fun sandals!

  • Reply
    Tiffany
    March 13, 2016 at 2:22 am

    So thrilled for you that you are able to get up and start working out with minimal pain. My fiance is slowly recovering from major back surgery and it has been a long road with chronic pain. I know the fight! I would totally dress up some black tights with the Roxy “Wish You Were Here” top or the Calia “Efforless Sriped Cocoon Sweater.” You look adorable in everything!! Best wishes for continued improvement!

  • Reply
    Susan
    March 13, 2016 at 3:02 am

    I usually do a cardigan over workout tank and add boots and a scarf. Love the vest!!

  • Reply
    Mindy
    March 13, 2016 at 6:16 am

    I just recently found your blog and halve it! Great timing too! 😉 I would throw on a tunic top with a long necklace and wedge booties over black leggings. P.S. I LOVE Calia also!

  • Reply
    Samantha
    March 13, 2016 at 2:43 pm

    a funky sweater, some earrings and ankle booties!

  • Reply
    Kristen
    March 13, 2016 at 5:54 pm

    So great you can get some exercise in! Yay! LOVE Dick’s and all the Calia! I just bought that pink fade to gray hooding you’re holding in one of the pictures! Love it! And black leggings….I like wearing a long cami…the ones that covers your assets;) with a flannel…with uggs if it’s cold or flip flops if it’s not!

  • Reply
    Kim Tierney
    March 14, 2016 at 3:44 am

    Corina, this post makes me so happy for you 🙂

    I LOVE wearing leggings instead of pants! My favorite way to dress it up is with an over-sized sweater or shirt (preferably off-the-shoulder), with some high-top converse.

    Much love <3 xx

  • Reply
    Katie
    March 14, 2016 at 3:57 am

    I would change shoes definitely and I have lots of cute shrugs and wrap sweaters to pull on over tank tops. I love some of those Calia pieces. I didn’t know Socks carries that line. I will have to go check all the cute stuff out soon.

  • Reply
    Courtney
    March 14, 2016 at 1:49 pm

    So glad to see you are able to be up and moving!
    I love to dress up black tights with a flowy top and flats or wedges!

  • Reply
    Cheryl
    March 14, 2016 at 3:02 pm

    Love to add a tunic top or a long t-shirt and a cardi!!

  • Reply
    April
    March 14, 2016 at 3:43 pm

    I’m a black legging girl, too! 🙂 I love the way you dressed these up with layers. I would definitely try the stripped top! So cute. I have been eyeing Carrie’s new line and I’m so glad you tried it and loved it! 🙂

  • Reply
    Carol T
    March 15, 2016 at 12:21 pm

    I would dress up a pair of black leggings with a long silver metallic top with silver and black heels

  • Reply
    Amber
    March 15, 2016 at 4:06 pm

    I love throwing on some boots and a cute scarf to dress up leggings. And btw you are my favorite iifym blog. I originally found you on Pinterest about a year ago, finally started counting macros in January and now am down to my goal weight and loving what it has done for my body!!

  • Reply
    Paige Niedringhaus
    March 17, 2016 at 5:42 pm

    That’s an easy one. I’ve got a black tank top that’s open in the back, with some delicate beading around the neck line that looks great with some skinny leggings on the bottom. It helps balance out the blousy, relaxed fit of the top.

  • Reply
    Karen
    March 17, 2016 at 5:56 pm

    I’ve worn it with a silk sleeveless long at the bottom and heels open toe with bangles as accessory and big pearl earrings, reddish brown lipstick 😉

  • Reply
    Wendy P.
    March 17, 2016 at 6:29 pm

    With Fibro issues I am always looking for what will be comfortable–I’d dress up my black leggings with a soft and comfy sweater tunic and boots. Easy peasy and totally fibro friendly!

  • Reply
    lorena
    March 19, 2016 at 1:55 am

    Black leggings with knee high boots and baggy sweater are definitely my go to in the winter and fall, heels or flats with a nice shirt for summer

  • Reply
    Kim
    March 19, 2016 at 1:56 am

    I honestly don’t know how I would dress them up. Your outfits turned out super cute though. We are getting a our first Dick’s in town and I can’t wait to check it out.

  • Reply
    Katie S
    March 19, 2016 at 1:57 am

    I love dressing up leggings with a boyfriend/style button down and sometimes I’ll bring a cute statement necklace in my purse to throw on to dress up the outfit. It’s so classic but comfortable and cute!

  • Reply
    Christine
    March 19, 2016 at 1:57 am

    I love dressing up my black tights with t’s

  • Reply
    Stef
    March 19, 2016 at 1:59 am

    I love wearing black leggings with a longer tunic, cropped jacket, & statement necklace. Then flip flops is the weather is nice (hopefully) and if not, then some ankle booties!

  • Reply
    Katie
    March 19, 2016 at 2:00 am

    Black leggings are ESSENTIAL. I absolutely love those tops you wore too-I love wearing tops like those wraps that are flattering but not too tight that way they are comfortable to wear all day for errands, appointments, and everything in between.

  • Reply
    Dawn D
    March 19, 2016 at 2:02 am

    All of the outfits you got are super cute! 🙂 My favorite black workout leggings are actually CALIA and I am obsessed. They are the most comfortable, soft, and figure flattering. My favorite way to dress them up is to sort of do the opposite and go for a grungy/casual look. I wear the black leggings with a heather gray loose fit v neck top, a plaid flannel tied around my waist, and my all white Converse shoes by Chuck Taylor. Hands down one of my favorite outfits to wear. Functional yet cute and BEYOND comfy!

  • Reply
    Amy
    March 19, 2016 at 2:02 am

    I have not seen her line yet! I love love that sweater with the thumb holes! Could totally wear that to work in CO! I mean no one sees us in dispatch ?

  • Reply
    kaci cheeseman
    March 19, 2016 at 2:03 am

    I love Dick’s! And leggings… but I should be asking you for the fashion advice! All of the options you posted are so cute!

  • Reply
    Caley122@yahoo.com
    March 19, 2016 at 2:05 am

    Love these looks! My favorite way to wear black leggings is with a cardigan, tank and and boots or with a soft, loose fitting tshirt and converse when it’s warmer.

  • Reply
    Danielle Ringenary
    March 19, 2016 at 2:12 am

    I LOVE Calia! My favorites are the essential tight fight black capris. I love wearing the Calia seamless tank with the dolman circle top over it! Pair with cute sandals and ready for the gym or out to lunch in seconds!

  • Reply
    Lindsay Stuart
    March 19, 2016 at 2:13 am

    I like to wear an oversized sweater or cardigan with black leggings, it’s easy and cute…you look great in all these outfits, I guess I need to check out dicks sporting goods for myself

  • Reply
    Carisa
    March 19, 2016 at 2:14 am

    Love the clothing you picked! I didn’t realize Dicks has such great looking clothing! I dress my black leggings up with some boots, a colorful tunic top or a slouchy sweater… Comfy yet stylish 🙂

  • Reply
    Eleanor Ross
    March 19, 2016 at 2:20 am

    I love a good pair of black leggings! I’ve worn them with everything from a workout tank & tennis shoes, to a casual tank & flip flops to a nice pair of high boots with a dressy top or slouchy casual sweater!

  • Reply
    Amanda
    March 19, 2016 at 2:22 am

    I would dress up my black leggings with a tunic sweater, chunky necklace and booties

  • Reply
    Kim Christensen
    March 19, 2016 at 2:36 am

    Corina my sweets you know I just live in sweats or booty shorts and tanks lol! Hmmmmm…. So I just say screw dressing it up, throw on a tight workout tank and just go for it 😉

  • Reply
    Michelle E
    March 19, 2016 at 2:51 am

    Hooray for moving without pain!! So happy for you girl:)
    All these looks are so so good! I like tunics with my basic black leggings… And boots.
    With warmer weather coming, I like how you showed options with sandals though! Great options!

  • Reply
    Kristi Bettes
    March 19, 2016 at 2:51 am

    During this time of year I love transitioning from the gym to mommy mode with a cute tshirt and flip flops/sandals.

  • Reply
    Lauren
    March 19, 2016 at 3:13 am

    I where black tights with above knee dresses or oversized men’s shirts. Depending on the weather the shirt is thick or thin !

  • Reply
    Erika
    March 19, 2016 at 3:20 am

    Dress it up with some boots & a puffy vest of course! Accessories are always a plus too!

  • Reply
    Maggie P
    March 19, 2016 at 4:42 am

    Black leggings are so versatile and I’m all about sandals since it’s already warm in central Texas. Throw on a long necklace or two over my tshirt with a chambray shirt, some cute earrings and I’m ready to roll.

  • Reply
    Molly favero
    March 19, 2016 at 5:11 am

    A super easy transition is the knee high boots over the leggings… I see that you are into this trick already and being from Colorado boots are a must for fall, winter & spring! But… Another way to add a little more Jazz to them are
    ??boot toppers?? Or high socks with cute tops that peek above your boots! I’ve found these dress up my black spandies so much that no one even knows I am wearing workout pants! Add some:
    1.dry shampoo
    2.quick hair braid to hide that sweaty head and you’re off on a date or running errands! As far as tops, I like shirts that angle down in the back and leave a cute long tail!
    Hope these help! ??

  • Reply
    Katie
    March 20, 2016 at 4:39 am

    Black Leggings … White long tank … Black long sweater silver or gold jewelry .. Grey converse for casual or small wedge sandal for dressier.

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