Post-Workout Wear - We've Got You Covered

Photo: Nordstrom.com

Though it might not feel like it yet, in some parts of the country, fall is upon us, which means cooler temperatures. While your gym might stay at a comfortable temperature all year long, it's important to take care of those warm muscles by covering them up before you step into the chilly autumn air. And as long as you're going to be putting something on, it might as well look good.

You can wear your favorite track jacket all you want (or even buy a new one, like this pretty purple one at Lululemon), but let's leave the baggy old sweatpants and your boyfriend's hoodie at home and find a few fun, athlete-approved options, shall we?

Now, notice I didn't say no hoodies -- after all, you need to be comfortable. But there are some that look far more feminine than an oversized college zip-up. For example, if the weather isn't all that cold just yet, this short-sleeved American Buddha by Yogi "Sakura" Hoodie from Nordstrom is adorable. The print is great, to be sure, but it's the fit that makes this one so girly and sweet. Plus, it pairs perfectly with black yoga pants or running tights!

When it comes to jackets, very little feels better than fleece, but you don't have to settle for the standard styles. Beyond Yoga's Scarf Jacket would look just as stylish with jeans or work clothes as with workout attire, but is made from a super soft fleece.

Photo: athleta.gap.com

As fabulous as fleece feels, it's not exactly the dressiest fabric. If you're looking for a cover-up that will go from gym to, say, a restaurant or shopping, consider some of the cold-weather items you wear when you're not hitting the gym. A casual style, like a hoodie, gets a whole new feel when done in something like cashmere (just make sure you're done sweating before you put it on -- dry cleaning bills add up!). And a cozy cardigan can pull double duty if you pack it in your gym bag.

The athletes who spring to my mind when it comes to dressing well after a workout are ballerinas with their wrap sweaters. Maybe it's just me, but there's little I love more with workout pants than an adorable wrap, like this one from Athleta. However, I also love the idea of a brightly colored tunic skimming over my sweaty clothes (once again, from Athleta, and on sale!).

Accessories like colorful scarves and comfy hats are great, too. If you have a favorite post-gym cover-up, tell us about it in the comments!

Want to do good, not just look good? Check out which company is offering eco-friendly workout wear (that's far from being crunchy).