This post is sponsored by Nordstrom and ShopStyle.
The official theme of today’s post is WORK OUT WEAR.
But full disclosure, I’ve never been the “I love working out” girl or even the “I love how I feel after working out” girl. I mean, I of course like the results over time and I know it’s imperative for my health, but I don’t get any of those endorphins I hear people talking about. And just so you know, all of you girls that do love it and do experience endorphins, all of us that don’t WANT TO BE YOU. But we’re also giving you side eye because we truly don’t understand how some people genuinely like to work out. We wish we had it in us.
Luckily, cute work out gear truly does help me to get motivated! The outfits I’m featuring in today’s post definitely help me get up and ready to exercise.
But there’s more….
We’re all friends here, right? If you’re like me, today’s post isn’t just about work out gear. It’s also about BEING COMFY WHEN RUNNING AROUND TOWN GEAR and PERFECT WEAR TO THE RANCH GEAR. #nojudgement
This first outfit highlights a twist front top that’s more for running around town and ranch wear than it is for working out. I don’t think I’ve ever worked out in a long sleeve top, so this most probably falls into the “athleisure” category.
It’s super soft, wonderfully drapey (let’s all act like it’s a word), and just plain comfy. I liked it so much and found myself wearing it so often in the first several weeks of having it that I grabbed the blue option too. For size reference, I’m wearing a medium in the top. I always size up in Zella tops. The small might have been okay on me in this, but I really liked the super relaxed fit and the length that the medium gave me. It’s shorter in the front, but the back covers your booty (as you’ll see further down in the post.)
Now seems like a good time to mention that when wearing work out gear, I don’t always abide by my self imposed “cover your crotchal area” rule. I 100% follow this rule when not wearing work out wear, but the rules soften a bit when it’s athleisure we’re talking about.
twist front top /sports bra / high waisted leggings / backpack / Hydro Flask ON SALE / similar sunglasses from same maker (only $16!) / huggie earrings / tab back socks 40% OFF / Adidas sneakers
I love wearing athleisure wear like this to the ranch. It’s great for hanging out with the family, riding around the ranch, fishing, hanging out by the campfire, and other ranch activities.
And let’s get reallllly honest for a second. It’s also good for all of the eating and drinking that happens at the ranch. There’s pretty much nothing I love more than making myself a bowl of Gardetto’s (I only buy them when heading to the ranch), mixing up my favorite ranch drink (grapefruit seltzer, lots of fresh lime juice, vodka, and tons of ice), and heading out to the front porch to chill. And you know what I like to be wearing when doing that?
AN ELASTIC WAIST.
Gosh, I hope lots of you are nodding your heads right now.
So let’s talk about these leggings. These aren’t officially designated as “high waisted”, but they are most definitely high waisted. I will never buy a pair of leggings that aren’t Zella high waisted leggings ever again. I purchased my first pair probably 3 years ago now, and I’ve been hooked ever since. I still have some in rotation that aren’t Zella or high waisted, and every single time I wear them, I yearn for a high waisted Zella pair. They are just SO MUCH BETTER.
For size reference, I always wear a small in Zella leggings.
Let’s get back to the working out portion of our post for just a sec.
If headed to work out, this Hydro Flask and this cute little backpack come in very handy. It’s got a large mouth opening that can be cinched together with the sporty drawstring cord. It also has a fold over flap that snaps closed. The backpack is small, but it is definitely large enough to hold the water bottle, a wallet, some keys, etc.
This backpack isn’t specifically geared for working out, and it would also look great with a regular old outfit of the day. It could definitely hold all of my regular purse contents, and I love that it allows me to be totally hands free.
I’m sporting the all black, but it also comes in a neutral canvas/neon yellow combination.
backpack / Hydro Flask ON SALE
And purely fyi, these accessories also come in handy at the ranch. The backpack can hold snacks, and the Hydro Flask can keep beverages icy cold as well. JUST SAYING.
high waisted leggings / backpack / Hydro Flask ON SALE / Adidas sneakers
I really love the size and the hands free aspect of this backpack.
twist front top / high waisted leggings / backpack
And I of course want to talk about the shoes too! Mine are the Black/Black and I wear them all the time. And not just for working out, because they also look great with jeans. These sneakers don’t have a separate tongue, so I think they fit like a thick and tight sock with laces. Does that make sense? Some reviewers have mentioned that they think they are difficult to get on, but I don’t have any trouble. I just use the tabs in the back to pull them right on.
The socks are important too. I’ve talked before about my love for Zella no show socks, and I do love them for Shoreline Converse and sneakers. However, when working out, I much prefer the Zella tab back socks because they give a nice little padding and cushion for your heel. AND GREAT NEWS! They are 40% OFF right now! They also come in a 3 pack of plain black or plain white HERE, but they aren’t on sale.
high waisted leggings /Hydro Flask ON SALE /tab back socks 40% OFF / Adidas sneakers
Casual, Cute, and Comfy! 3 very important C’s.
twist front top /sports bra / high waisted leggings / backpack / Hydro Flask ON SALE / similar sunglasses from same maker (only $16!) / huggie earrings / tab back socks 40% OFF / Adidas sneakers
Get The Look For Yourself Here:
Carson’s family lives down by the ranch, and these boy’s grandfathers are cousins. I’m not sure what that officially makes them, but they are definitely as close as 1st cousins. They are 7 months apart and thick as thieves.
Man, I wish I knew what they were talking about here.
Here they were having a very serious conversation about what makes the best skipping rock.
I of course had to get in on the fun.
The ranch is my little family’s favorite place on earth.
*************************************************
Day 2 at the ranch was spent inside because it poured all day long. Think sleeping in, a big country breakfast, a couple of movies, lots of couch snuggling, and fried fish and homemade french fries for dinner. Can you say BLISS?
I didn’t grab any pics on Day 2, but I did grab pics on Day 3 before we headed back home.
This outfit is for sure my idea of a perfect work out look, but it also happens to be great for a road trip and several hours in the car.
Sunday was absolutely beautiful, and we definitely left wishing we had another day. It was crazy windy, but it was sunny and gorgeous.
boxy tie tee / jacket 50% OFF/ sports bra / Live In high waisted crop leggings / Hydro Flask ON SALE / similar sunglasses from same maker (only $16!) / huggie earrings / tab back socks 40% OFF /Adidas sneakers
First things first, this zip up hoodie just went 50% OFF! Since I normally size up in Zella gear tops, I got a medium in this. I liked the fit of the medium, but I actually wouldn’t say that this particular jacket runs small. You can probably stick with your regular size. It’s soft, lightweight, and flattering.
boxy tie tee / jacket 50% OFF/ sports bra / Live In high waisted crop leggings / Hydro Flask ON SALE / similar sunglasses from same maker (only $16!) / huggie earrings / tab back socks 40% OFF /Adidas sneakers
When getting ready for this post several weeks ago, I decided to give this boxy tie tee a try. It’s made of moisture wicking fabric and has this great little tie and drawstring hem at the bottom. I don’t like fitted tees, especially when working out, so this is my perfect work out tee! I grabbed the black too (also available in light blush) and wish it came in some other dark colors. I like the boxy cut, the crew neck, and the length of the sleeves. I forgot to grab a pic without the jacket, but you can head to my instastories at some point today to see it on me without the jacket!
I’m a huge fan of this top and highly recommend it. I sized up to a medium.
The sports bra I’m wearing is really cute and comfy, and I like it for low impact work outs. For high impact work outs, this sports bra is my favorite by far and has been for a couple of years. It’s definitely expensive, but it’s something I’m willing to spend big bucks on to make my work outs as supported and comfortable as possible.
boxy tie tee / jacket 50% OFF/ sports bra / Live In high waisted crop leggings / Hydro Flask ON SALE
These particular leggings are the crop version of the official Live In high waisted crop leggings. AND I CANNOT RECOMMEND THEM ENOUGH. They suck you in, still allow you to breathe, come up above my belly button, and don’t roll down. They are legging perfection. They also aren’t see through at all, and they don’t sag.
If you’re petite, these will probably be close to full length on you. If you’re tall, they will just be a bit more cropped.
Click HERE to see all of the high waisted options Zella has to offer, including several different lengths, different materials, and many colorway and design options.
boxy tie tee / jacket 50% OFF/ Live In high waisted crop leggings / Hydro Flask ON SALE
Live In high waisted crop leggings / Hydro Flask ON SALE / tab back socks 40% OFF / Adidas sneakers
I’m ready for a work out, a road trip, or lounging on the couch while snacking.
I mean, this outfit checks all the boxes.
Get The Look For Yourself Here:
A huge THANK YOU to Nordstrom and ShopStyle for sponsoring this post.
p.s. In the past, I’ve done some pretty detailed posts about what I eat during my Get Ready For Summer Routine! If y’all are interested, I could definitely do that in a future post, so sound off in the comments. Also, if you are a Zella fan, please leave your thoughts! There might be a prize for somebody at random! #okaytherewillbe #goodluck!
Erika Slaughter says
Sign me up for that Saturday you had! Movies, couch snuggling, and fried fish? Sounds delightful!
Sarah K says
I LOVE Zella leggings and pretty much only wear comfy clothes!
Narci says
These workout looks are adorable! They almost make me excited to workout! 🙂
Valerie says
You turned me on to Zella high waisted leggings, and like you, it’s now all I want to wear. I’ve been slowly replacing all of my leggings with them. Going to need to try that boxy tee. The little tie is so cute!
Julie C. says
I would love a post about what you eat 🙂 I am also a Zella lover!!!! I agree about the leggings sucking you in & are just legging perfection. Altho, I do feel like they may run small sometimes. I just ordered my daughter a pair & need to exchange for a size bigger.
Shay Shull says
Okay, I know I should comment on the super cute purple pants…but Sheaffer, that property is GORGEOUS!
Lynn says
Please do some posts on quick, healthy meals you are eating. Always looking for ideas!!
Maggie says
I love the high water Zella’s! Since I saw your recommendation a few years ago, I won’t wear anything else now.
Debbie says
You can always count on Zella’s to be good quality, fit well, and look good whether you’re working out or running errands.
Savannah says
I would love a what you are eating to get summer ready post! I love both of the outfits but the first pair of leggings are the cutest !
Christine R says
Love my zella high waisted, and discovered in Nordy’s last anniversary sale they make maternity leggings! I am obsessed, recommend zella everything!
Janelle says
I have that same Zella zip hoodie and love it. Actually, I love all my Zella stuff- super comfy and good quality!!
Sarah T says
Agree about the Zella high-waist leggings! And they wash great! Also, I love their tanks and shirts. So cute but functional!
Leah Crouse says
Zella leggings are the best! I mean, the perfect thickness, so not see through. They tuck in all the imperfections, especially with the high-waist (that stays put)! And they come in all sorts of lengths and colors/patterns. What’s not to love?
Nikki McDonald says
Zella are the best. I have several brands of leggings but always reach for the Zella first. Love your blog. Thanks for the time you put in to it!!
Janice says
Please post your getting healthy and ready for summer routine
Karen Davis says
I’m in the get ready for spring stage, too. I’d love to hear more examples of your eating plan. And, Zella has such cute, high quality items!
Joy says
I would love another post on healthy eating ideas!
Kathy says
I don’t have Zella leggings yet, but I’m thinking some cropped ones need to be in my next Nordy order
Katie says
Oooh I am petite and haven’t tried Zella leggings but your post has sold me on them! Thanks, as always, for the great style tips!
Candas says
Love all my Zella gear! We are headed to China soon to pick up our son, and I’ve been looking for cute and easy to wear tops so that tie bottom is perfect. Thanks!
Sheaffer says
How wonderful, Candas!!!!!! xoxo
Alissa Ferry says
Ahhh, you got me started on Zella and they are my FAVORITE. I have tried other leggings for working out but the Zella’s always take the cake.
Bethany Butler says
You introduced me to the Zella high waist leggings and now I can’t work out without them. Like you, cute work out clothes motivate me to move more and get to the gym. Thank you Sheaffer!
Jill Johnson says
Love Zella gear! I’m lucky enough to live near a Nordstrom, I have to be careful or I will have more workout gear than regular every day clothes! Going to try that cute tie tee.
Kate says
I love your blog, and read it religiously. However, lately it seems like every post is sponsored. I am not sure exactly why it bothers me, but I guess it feels a little bit like being paid to advertise someone’s product and not necessarily you finding items that you really love, just because you love them. I know that this is you source of income and I understand that you need to make a living, but it would be great to see a few less sponsored posts.
Sheaffer says
Hi, Kate! I totally appreciate the feedback. And you’re right, I’ve definitely had a lot of sponsored content lately. Lots of brands want to partner up right now to show their Spring stuff, so I’m sure it will slow down a bit next month and definitely over the summer. Please know that I NEVER accept a post if it’s not something that’s authentic to me or something that I think y’all would want to hear about. For example, when Nordstrom reached out to see if I wanted to talk about Zella work out gear, of course I took it! I’ve been wearing their items (and loving them!) for years. Some of the posts I accepted this month (like Walmart) were a bit out of the box for me, but when I found items that I truly loved, I thought it would be fun! I have readers that are often asking for lower price points, and so I knew Walmart would be a good fit for those requests.
Also, I frequently get offers that I turn down.
I feel very strongly about the fact that if a reader buys 2-3 items as a result of the blog that they DO NOT love, that it’s very possible I will lose them as a reader. For that reason, I’m always very discriminating about what I’m recommending and endorsing.
Sorry for the long response, I just wanted to share a little feedback from my perspective. I totally understand how sponsored content might cause you to question my sincerity, but it’s my hope that you will trust my recommendations whether the content is sponsored or not!
Sheaffer 🙂
Rachel K. says
I got my first pair of Zella crop leggings in black last month and love love love them. Now I just want them to come in navy blue, emerald green and a deep purple. Can you tell Nordstrom to get on that for me!!!
Meredith says
I’ve heard so many good things about Zella but I have yet to get any. I need to change that ASAP!
Christa says
I bought Zella after you shared and love them. I want the crop as am a shortie! Great looks.
April says
I am a Zella high waisted convert for sure, thanks to you 😉 They are definitely a favorite. I haven’t tried any of their tops yet. I vote yes for a get ready for summer food post.
Rachel says
Sheaffer – this is why I love you. The way you talk about working out is EXACTLY how I feel! I own a few Zella items – love them dearly. But if I’m also being honest, I wear them to be comfy far more often than I ever wear them to sweat! Your ranch is awesome and your family time is a precious gift!
Katie Allred says
Zella for life! It’s the only brand of leggings I workout in, I work out 6 days a week too… I currently have 4 leggings and I’m doing laundry JUST to make sure I don’t have to wear another brand ?. Also, i jumped all over that black jacket! I needed a new one ?
Tara says
I have two pairs of those shoes and they are so comfy. I’ve worn them on two separate Disneyland trips and my feet always feel great at the end of the day. Also, what did we do before high waisted workout gear?! It’s the best!
Selena says
Love this post, especially the twist front top! You introduced me to Zella years ago, and I didn’t think I would love any pants more than my first pair of Zellas… but then the high-waisted versions came out, and I think I own 4 pairs! I’m wearing Zella leggings right now, and only change into “real” pants when I need to leave the house. I gained 5 pounds the first winter that I wore the high-waisted version every day around the house– I was so sucked in, I had no idea I was getting chubby, LOL! Fun post and great pic, thanks again for all of the time you put into your work!
Emily C says
I bought my first pair of Zella high-waisted leggings during the big Nordstrom sale last fall (because of YOUR awesome recommendation!) and I lived in them this winter! I take your recommendations very seriously 😉 Thank you!
Carolee says
Please post your get ready for summer routine food ideas. I’m going to order some Zella leggings – they look great!
Leslie says
I’m wondering if I got a pair of Zellas in a bad batch or something. I ordered a pair of the high-waisted black leggings. They are super soft (not much compression), but they pilled after the second wear and now look pretty bad. I only wear them at home now. I wasn’t sitting on abrasive surfaces or doing any activity that would cause that. Does this seem out of the norm? I really like your multi-colored pair and am debating whether to give them another shot.
Sheaffer says
Hi, Leslie! I’ve never had any Zella items pill at all? And that’s after TONS of washings and wearings. That is definitely not the norm. Give them another try! xoxo
Leslie says
That’s great to hear! Thanks!!
Emily Hood says
Another “I hate working out” girl here… but definitely agree cute clothes and accessories make it… tolerable? Haha. I love how Zella clothing holds up. Wash in cold, hang to dry, and no wear showing a few years later. Worth the cost and a deal if it’s on sale!
A says
Love zella high waisted and Wear them more days a week than I should!!! ❤️
Sheaffer, could you give any fast recs for bosom supporting swim suits? In swim lessons with my toddlers and feeling indecent. Thanks!!
Sheaffer says
I will see what I can find, hopefully for a post next week (maybe in my What’s Up Wednesday post)!
Meagan Satterfield says
I have bought so many Zella pieces that you recommend! I LOVE the socks for working out but recently discovered the nordstrom rack carries the tab back socks in a 3 pack for $10 and I like them just as much! Just thought I would pass along 🙂
Sarah says
You got me hooked on Zella leggings and I can’t get enough! They are so comfy and cute! Love the looks today!
Jan Fisher says
Tried my first pair of zella (high waist crop) leggings during anniversary sale last year and oh my word! LOVE I have 2 pair now and it’s all I reach for when working out or lounging around! I want a pair of 7/8 length next. Hoping they are on sale during the anniv sale this year again!
Thanks for fun and “comfy” post!
Lisa says
I love Zella leggings, they are so good. I always love to read what people are eating, so those posts are a favorite!
Addison says
This post makes me wish I worked from home because I’d be living in those cute Zella leggings and work out tops 24/7! Your ranch looks absolutely beautiful and just so peaceful. I’d love more posts about what you eat and how you get ready for summer!
Rachel says
I want to hear about what you eat to get ready for summer! Also I don’t own any Zella yet but clearly I need to order some leggings.
Leah B. says
Hi Sheaffer! Thanks to you, I own and love many Zella items. I love posts like these and would love to see more workout / fitness posts in the future. Thanks for all your hard work – I love your blog 🙂
Ellen says
Yes, please post about your pre-summer routine! and love the posts on Zella workout pieces, especially like these that can double as casual everyday wear, when you’re rushing from gym to errands
Jessica says
I love Zella! You should also try their shorts as we head into summer! 🙂
Gail Wilson says
I already put the Zella jacket in my cart in two sizes XS and S. My morning dog walks are still pretty chilly and that would be perfect for when I stop for coffee after with the pup!
Those purple leggings are awesome on you!! I want to try them myself, but I carry my weight south of the equator. I have been eating right and within 3-5 lbs of my goal weight – yay me!! 🙂
Tami says
Shaeffer, I love the shoes! I have them in grey. I took them to Palm Springs for my morning walk, hiking at Joshua Tree National Park and just for cute with shorts or jeans. So comfy and cute! I actually blogged about them to spread the love, Thanks for the tip!
Leslie says
I’m wondering if I got a pair of Zella leggings in a bad batch. I ordered a pair of the black high-waisted ones from Nordstrom. While they are super soft (not much compression), they pilled after the first or second wear. They look pretty bad and I now just wear them at home. I hadn’t worn them around abrasive surfaces, didn’t do intense workouts, and I am pretty small, so I was surprised. Does this seem out of the norm? I’m debating whether to give them another shot since it seems like others have a different experience with them. The purple ones are so cute!
Sheaffer says
Hey, Leslie! I think I answered this comment before, but it disappeared? I have worn and washed mine countless times, and I’ve never had any pilling! I think you should try again! xoxo
Julie MacManus says
LOVE Zella…thanks to your recommendations!
Kelly Lane Nation says
I just spent way too much time looking at Zella leggings on Nordstrom’s site. Can’t decide if I want/need pockets or not??
Alison Althouse says
I’m most grateful for your sports bra link… just placed an order for two of them! I was pleasantly surprised to see that it had a black closure instead of having to squeeze it over my head. Thanks so much!!
Jenny U says
I only have one pair of Zella leggings (right now) and I love them The waist does not roll down when I’m running, hiking or working out. I also have their socks and they are so comfy! I have a few more items on my wish list.
Ashley says
Love Zella. That boxy tee has been sitting in my cart for a week now…time to pull the trigger because it looks great on you!
Wendy says
I’d love a post on what you’re eating to prepare for summer!
Love the work out wear & pups in the background!
Staci says
I love Zella leggings! I’ve been wearing them for years and really don’t want to buy any others.
Amy says
Whoo! I have a pair of bright red Zella leggings thanks to you, and they are so fun on days where I think I should work out (even though I don’t want to). 😉
Carol Wolff says
~~~ZellaShmella~~~
What’s a GARDETTOS?????
🙂
Sheaffer says
Hi, Carol! It’s a chex mix type snack! YUM! 🙂
Nicole says
That entire first paragraph. – YES! lol
I am loving that boxy tie tee. So cute!
Maggie S. says
I’ve never tried the Zella brand but I do most definitely prefer a high waisted legging!!
Jennifer W says
I love those high waisted pink pants you were wearing on Day 1. Adorable! I love Zella no show socks!
Katie says
Cute post! I am super nosey and love seeing what people are eating!!
Holly says
I love my Zella high-waisted leggings! I wear them to work (under long tunics) and I wear them for exercise. I also have the high waist crops and this year I bought a pair of the 7/8 leggings to try! I tell everyone to try the Zella brand!
Jamie Lobdell says
I love everything Zella that I own and I can thank you for every single piece! That Saturday at the ranch sounds delightful to me!
Karen H says
I LOVE Zella leggings! I have the pair you are wearing in this post in a black multi color and a solid black pair! They are so comfortable! And I owe it all to your recommendation… so THANK YOU!
BTW, if the boys grandfathers are first cousins, I believe that would make the boys third cousins. 🙂
Crystal McDonald says
I bought a few pairs of Zella leggings a few years ago after your recommendations. OBSESSED! I like the crop pants because it’s so hot here in Texas I wear them longer where as the full length I only sport in the winter. I scored the cutest asymmetrical Zella jacket at a Nordstrom rack and lived in it all winter! Thanks for sharing!! I need to add a few pieces for summer workouts!
Jody Forsee says
Love my Zella leggings!! I’ve tried others and they roll down at my waist when I bend down and I can’t stand it!! I only have one pair but looking to add at least one more pair. I also love the twisty tee. It’s so comfy but makes me feel good when I wear it. I, too, bought one color and loved it do much that I bought another color! Thanks for the reminder of how much I love Zella!!
Annette says
If Gardettos and The Ranch Drink are part of the getting ready for summer plan, then I definitely want to know more!!!
Sheaffer says
Ha! They are definitely not! 🙂
Mallory says
Do you have any Lululemon leggings? If so, how do you think these Zella ones compare? I’ve always been a Lulu girl but for almost half the price I’m tempted to make the switch! Also are these true to size? I feel like I’m between XS and S and not sure which way to lean. Thanks!!
Sheaffer says
I don’t own any Lululemon, so I can’t compare. So sorry, Mallory! And yes, they are true to size. If you are under a 4, I would say to get an XS! Hope this helps! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Shannon says
I haven’t tried Zella yet (I’m the only person in world who doesn’t like leggings ?)but I heard their sports bras are the best!
Stephanie says
My Zella leggings are my favorite too! And now you’re making me want another pair. 🙂
Ashlee Brown says
I love your diet posts! I’ve gotten so many great ideas from them. I need more! Thanks ?
Mary says
now I REALLY want to try these leggings!
they sound just like what im looking for!!
love to hear about routines and food and skin care!
Heather Palmer says
I do like your diet posts. It’s good to see what someone else is eating because I feel like I get stuck in a rut of eating the same things! Also I may try the Zella leggings…high waist would be so much better to work out in and they probably hold up better than the cheap workout leggings I’ve been buying.
Kelly Henderson says
My 15 year old daughter owned the Adidas shoes in gray, they got a hole in the top after about 6 weeks of daily wear (uniform shoe for school). I called Adidas and sent them pictures of the hole along with my receipt and they replaced them! I had no idea Adidas shoes had a 2 year warranty! You just need your receipt, it takes several weeks to process everything but it was an easy process.