I love sweatpants. They are my soulmate. When I put them on (especially after shaving my legs) they feel live heaven. Especially when the elastic ends grip to my ankles and make me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Yep, that’s right — I wear XL man sweatpants when I’m lounging around the house. Sue me and call me the laziest pile of crap since Charlie Sheen. Woah — I just burned myself.

In college, I got into a nasty habit with my sweatpants. Our relationship took a very public turn. Yep, my sweatpants relationship was all about the PDA and I went everywhere with them on. Grocery store, library, Target, the mall…we were attached at the hip (pun intended). When I graduated college, I broke up with sweatpants and scooted on to yoga pants (because they didn’t seem as “you-never-dress-up-taboo”).

But here’s the thing; I’m tired of my sweatpants and my yoga pants. Although I’m a woman that promotes comfort, something about putting a little more effort into presenting yourself in public makes me feel a lot better about life. It’s a simple concept, but something about it isn’t so simple. After living in a college world where presenting yourself meant spending four hours a weekend going out (and that’s it), things change. The real world gives you opportunities to spend hours getting ready for other things. The simple things. Why not spend a ton of time getting ready to go out to lunch with an old friend? Or even through on a cute outfit for the grocery store? A hair appointment?

This is my new goal. Whether or not I’m making myself sound like a total slob, I don’t care. I want to spend more time getting ready for simple trips out (and not just extravagant nights out with friends). First of all, who knows who I’m going to meet when I waltz over to the grocery store to buy red peppers? Second of all, the mere satisfaction of feeling confident and comfortable in my own skin is worth all of the extra effort in the world.

I’m not about to say appearance is everything. I don’t ever want to be someone I’m not (lord knows I’m no Paris Hilton, wear-heels-into-the-gas-station type of person). But I am the type of person who wants to feel wonderful. So why not throw on some funky tights, a cute dress and a pea-coat to hit lunch with ma (instead of those ol’ yoga pants)? I’m not going to deny myself any more opportunities to feel good and look great while I’m doing it.

Happy 2011, everyone! It’s a new year, so why not start it off right by getting into shape? I know I’d like to slim down after overindulging on food and drinks during the holidays! It’s not going to be easy, though. For me, the hardest part of working out, especially when I haven’t been at it in a while, is getting motivated. The exercise part isn’t so bad once I’m doing it, because I just visualize my goals (or watch Kardashian marathons…), but I have the hardest time just getting up and going.

In order to motivate myself to work out, I’ve decided to buy myself some cute new workout clothes. The idea is that I’ll feel obligated to use the clothes since I spent money on them, and I’ll also want to show off how cute I look in my new workout gear. Lucky for me (and those of you who think this is such a great idea you have to do it, too) some of my favorite cheap clothing stores have started carrying workout clothes, so there are lots of affordable options — like all these for just $20 or less!

Now that it’s winter break, you’re likely spending most of your time sitting around your parents’ house in your PJ’s, right? I don’t blame you — if you don’t have to go to work or school, you might as well be comfortable, right?

But “comfortable” doesn’t have to mean “sloppy.” There are plenty of comfortable lounge clothes that are also cute! They’re also useful beyond winter break — loungewear is perfect for hanging out in the dorms! These clothes will make sure you look cute and stay comfortable, whether you’re studying, watching a movie with friends, or napping… and they’re all just $20 or less!

[Click on any image to see the comfy goods.]

The following post is courtesy of our uber fashionable friends at CollegeFashion.net. Check ‘em out – they rock our socks off.

Ah, summer: a time where your life can be on whatever schedule you please, and you can finally take the time to do something for YOU. One of my personal goals this summer is to get in better shape! I consider myself an athletic person, but there are definitely areas where I could improve. So this summer I’ve signed up for yoga and cardio kickboxing classes, while also incorporating hiking, running track, and weight lifting into my exercise regimen. Whew that’s a variety of stuff, no?

Inspired by my own new exercise routine, I have come up with a list of essentials for anyone who is planning on exercising regularly this summer. Of course, these items are not only useful, but in the spirit of fashion they are also adorable and can really make a statement at the gym!

1. A Cute Duffel or Tote Bag

I bring a tote bag to the gym because I just don’t have the need for a duffel bag: I usually wear my gym clothes and use my tote for my iPod, a water bottle, my keys, my wallet, a hand towel, etc. However, if you are one of those people who prefers to change at the gym and/or swim/shower after your workout, you might want to consider a duffel bag instead. Of course, exploring the locker size at your gym is essential, too, before you buy!

Product Information (clockwise from top): Gym Holdall- ASOS, Roxy Striped Tote- available through Zappos, Orange Workout Bag- Old Navy, Silver Workout Bag- Nike

2. Quick Dry Clothing

I love breaking a sweat at the gym; however, I could definitely do without the sweaty, sticky, gross feeling that comes with it. Solution? Quick dry fabrics! My favorite is Nike Dri-Fit; however, other brands like Under Armour have quick dry clothing, too! If you are really into natural fibers, beware because most quick-dry clothing is made from synthetic materials. If any of you know of any “green” quick-dry brands, leave a comment with the info!

Product Information (clockwise from top): Turquoise Sports Bra, Stretch Capris, Shorts, Blue Tank – all Nike Dri-Fit

Find out the other 3 workout essentials by clicking right here!

Everyone’s got a vice, a bad habit, something they know they need to change. Unfortunately, everyone also has a million excuses why they just can’t do it. Not anymore. Every month we will be following a different CollegeCandy writer as she takes on a personal challenge. This month we’re following Norah on her quest to bring exercise into her life. Last week she climbed aboard the elliptical, what’s she up to now?

At some point this week, exercise stopped being something I had to do and started being something I wanted to do. I’m honestly not sure what changed. Maybe it was the physical pain and exhaustion I felt after Irish dancing at a pre-St. Patrick’s Day event last weekend. And then watching all my old friends performing on St. Patrick’s Day, so full of energy, making it all look so easy.

I guess I liked to think that at any time, I could just get right back into Irish dancing, that it would be just like riding a bike. But it was so much more difficult than I ever remembered.  I was frustrated with myself for letting my laziness cancel out the years of strength and endurance I built up through dancing. Whatever the cause of this new-found motivation, though, I knew I needed to take advantage of it.

The weather here has been beautiful, and Spring Break gave me a little more free time than I have back at school. So I set my sights on venturing into the great outdoors this week. Now, here’s a confession: I love Rollerblading. I know Rollerblading is something that probably should have stayed in the ’90s, but for someone who can’t run, Rollerblading gives me the chance to cover a bit of ground outside in a way that doesn’t leave me clutching my sides in pain. So on Thursday afternoon, I strapped on my Rollerblades and set out into the crisp air.

Last week I wrote about my struggles on the elliptical–15 minutes left me tired and bored. Rollerblading was completely different. It was anything but boring. I bladed through a few parks, through some new housing developments, explored my hometown a little bit. Now, my hometown is relatively small, but I actually got lost in one of the developments while I was out there doin’ my thing. And that’s when I realized the main benefit of Rollerblading (or running or walking or biking, I suppose): you can’t just stop. For someone who tends to give up a little too early during exercise, the added challenge of having to make it back home was just what I needed. I ended up Rollerblading for AN HOUR–by far the longest period of continuous exercise I’ve had in probably four years.

And if that’s not enough to motivate me, I bought my first sports bra! I know it’s ridiculous that I didn’t have one, but whatever. I don’t buy new clothes that often–really only a couple times a year–and so it always feels like a bit of a treat. So I’m going to set specific goals for myself (go to Pilates twice a week for a month, etc.) and then reward myself with a pair of cute yoga pants or another new sports bra. If you’re noticing a trend here, yes, I’m excessively motivated by physical rewards. What can I say? Last week’s Shamrock Shake was delicious.

Don't worry; you don't need to be on some lush beach to look hot in these.

So…I’m really proud of myself. I’m not trying to brag or anything (okay maybe I am, but, hey, we all need a little pat on the back once in a while), but for once in my life I have actually managed to keep my “stop being a fat-ass and go to the gym” News Year’s resolution.

We are well into February, people – that’s a strong month and a half of sweating my ass off during hour-long elliptical sessions and then spending the entire next day unable to sit down on the toilet.

But while my motivation is going strong, I’ve hit a major road block when it comes to gym apparel. I’m only going to end up drenched in sweat anyway, so why does it really matter what I wear, you say.

Point taken.

But there are also a handful of hot guys bench-pressing in the corner and my ripped sweatpants really aren’t doing me any justice. I’m already wheezing like an 80-year-old man with my hair plastered to my forehead; at least my ass could look nice in the process.

Which is why I am totally adding the Victora’s Secret Yoga Knot Waist Foldover Pant to my list of must-have items. If you’ve never owned a pair of workout pants from Vicky’s you haven’t lived. They are hands down the most comfortable thing I have ever slipped into, not to mention only 1/3rd of the price of those Lululemons! And even if you’ve already given up on your workout goal, I always have a pair on hand for those lazy mornings when real clothes just aren’t going to happen (but I don’t want the saggy “I just pooped my pants” look that comes with your average sweats).

Plus, these pants are freakin’ adorable. The side-knot is subtly sexy and completely unexpected for a workout pant, and the color-blocking is totally on trend for spring. I also love the stretch material that molds perfectly to your body and feels barely-there when running (it’s hard enough to get moving, I don’t need a baggy sweatpant slowing me down).

I say seize every opportunity to look hot, so why pass up the chance to strut into the gym and turn heads? You never know, you could burn some calories and snag a date for Friday night…and that’s killing two resolutions with one stone if I’ve ever seen it.

It’s no secret that you can easily find stylish looks for under $20 all over the place. From Forever 21 to Wet Seal, us gals know where to go for the deals.  Occasionally, though, my quest for cuteness leads me to a website I’ve never heard of that has some great finds, like this one: Heavenly Couture.  Nothing on this site is over $17.95. Nothing!

Really, with a claim like that, can you go wrong?

Here are a few of my favorite finds.

This top will look darling with a pair of leggings and some riding boots.  Perfect for a day at the mall or chillin’ out on campus.

This blouse is professional enough to wear to work or your fab internship, but sexy enough (unbutton a few extra buttons!) to wear out for de-stressing drinkies with the girls or a dinner date with that hot new guy.

The nearly A-line shape of this romper will look good on just about any body type. And I know it may be a bit too soon to be loading up on shorts and tanks, but you could work it with a pair of tights, or just put it in your Spring Break wardrobe wish list. It’s always good to have some inspiration for those leg/arm workouts.

There are three things I am loving about this cardigan: 1) It’s a cardigan, so it’s perfect for all seasons. 2) It’s bright fuchsia, which is just gorge. 3) The big buttons and hip pockets add some adorable flair.

Workout clothes can get so damn expensive, but why? Who needs $100 yoga pants when you can get a perfectly good pair for $10? I guarantee your butt will look just as good Downward Dogging in these.

Great earrings for under $10? I’m in.

Yup, those are dark wash skinny jeans for only $12. Take one reader’s advice and pick up some studs, sew ‘em on, and make yourself a pair of super hot rocker jeans for under $20.

This tunic’s super low cut top allows you to sex it up for a night out on the town (add black skinnies and a pair of booties – divine!), or add a cami underneath and you’ve got an ensemble that’s acceptable for brunch with the ‘rents.

As a frugalista, I’m always on the lookout for new bargains and I’m betting you are too, so hopefully I’ve opened your eyes to another great site for just that.  Enjoy!

Don't know what to get this girl? We'll help you out!

We all have that friend. You know the one who’s all “thanks but no thanks on the holiday cookies – I’m totally cool eating this yummy air.” The one with so much self-discipline she woke up the morning after Halloween, threw her slutty bumble bee costume aside and went for a 7 mile run. The one who is always telling you about the latest workout she is into, health book she is reading or cleanse she is trying.  And, of course, the one who makes you think, “I wish I could be a bit more like her,” as you delve into your giant cookie while watching this week’s episode of the Real Housewives for the FOURTH time.

Yes, we all have that friend and while sometimes you wish you could just give her a big box of cookies for the holidays, there are just a few things she’d appreciate a whole lot more. But what can you get her that will make her happy without packing on the pounds? Try a few of these on for size:

A Blueprint Cleanse: This 1-5 day cleanse comes in 3 different levels so it’s great for the friend who always talks about wanting to try one or the health freak who cleanses 3 times a year. I tried this and LOVED how it made me feel. A great gift to give to your health-freak friends who would totally love the idea of a post holiday cleanse. (It’s not cheap, so consider getting a group of friends together for this one.)

Master Your Metabolism: From our pal Jillian Michaels of the Biggest Loser, this book breaks down what we are doing wrong and how to fix it so we can stay fit, healthy and feeling great. Jillian knows it all so even health freaks can learn something new from this jam-packed book of information.

Daily Food Diary: This unique little black book will help her keep track of all the grabs here, handfuls there and healthy meals so she can stay on track with that healthy eating.

Thumbhole half-zip hoodie: She’s gonna need something warm to wear post-workout or on that 3-mile run. This adorable hoodie will keep her hands warm but fingers accessible (for finding more Miley on her iPod). And it’s just plain cute. She could wear it anywhere.

Exhale Core Fusion DVDs: Core Fusion is my most favorite workout ever. I don’t know how it works, but my butt burns for days (yes, DAYS) after. The classes get pretty pricey, but now everyone can do it from the comfort of their own dorm room. Awesome. You can get the total pack, but if that’s out of your price rage you can get each DVD for $15 a pop. (And if you’re only getting one, I’d go with body sculpt.)

Fitted Low-rise Yoga Pant: Everyone needs a pair of yoga pants. This particular pair is adorable at an even more adorable price.

Nike Weighted Jump Rope: The best way to get a cardio workout in without having to walk to the gym when its -20 degrees (I’m talking to you, University of Wisconsin).

Nike Running Arm Wallet/Phone Case:  The perfect arm accessory (armcessory?) for any girl who is addicted to both running and her Blackberry.

Yoga mat bag and gym bag: Whether she’s into yoga or the gym these two bags are ADORABLE and fuctional. And let’s be real:  I’ve never met a girl who doesn’t love Lululemon!

Lululemon Slipless Headband: It’s The best workout head band EVER.

And you gotta fit the gym in there somewhere.

I know, it’s always the first thing to go when things start getting busy, but it shouldn’t be! Working out regularly will keep you fit (obvi), and also help ease the stress and give you that much needed energy to get through those 16 credits, rush meetings, group projects and everything else you need to get through before Friday.

If that’s not enough to motivate you, perhaps some cute clothes will do? It’s obviously not easy to pull yourself out of bed and trek to the gym when you look (and therefore feel) like crap. Those baggy sweats and dirty t-shirts aren’t doing anyone any favors, especially you. And with all the super cute workout-wear that’s out there right now (in every. single. price point), there’s no reason to look drab for the gym. If you’re super busy, you can pile this stuff on before class and sneak in a workout during lunch; the clothes are so cute, no one would ever know. And if you’re just lazy, having cute and trendy pieces around will make you feel better and motivate you to get your butt moving. (It really works!)

If you need a kick in the (yoga) pants to get back to the gym, I’ve got 16 right here for ya. Enjoy.

So summer is half over.  Sad, I know. Before you know it you will be back at school for a week of activities.  And by activities, I obviously mean a week-long drink fest. Ah, the joys of welcome week. Only the best week of life that comes around once a year for four years. And of course you want to look your very best for your return to school before it all gets traded in for late night pizza runs.

The good news is its not too late to get moving.  And what’s more motivating than knowing you look damn good in your workout clothes? Nothing. Well, maybe that cute guy in the gym who will be seeing you in said cute workout clothes.  Sure you may be SO sweaty that your shirt looks like you just entered a wet t-shirt contest- but hey, at least it’s cute. And now, cheap as well.

Tops
Colorful, sweat absorbent, and most importantly you can still wear a workout bra with it, because we all know the feeling of holding on to your girls for dear life  when your top is not supportive enough (or is that just me?).

Bottoms
These will not only make your butt look cute, but they won’t ride down when you run (or sashay across the gym).