Mazie's Method

Once upon a time, track suits were from Adidas, Nike, Fila, Reebok and Sergio Tacchini.  They were for little people, ones who only wore them for *gasp* exercise.  Then the 80′s happened in Brooklyn and every guy and girl who wanted to be “cool” and “comfortable” got one and the trend became a staple.

These days, we have more options, colors, sizes, and styles for tracksuits and we aren’t afraid to wear them!  Personally, they are my “casual, comfy and chic” uniform.  Specifically in the cold weather, they are my Friday uniform with Uggs and my favorite cashmere scarf.  I top it with a puffy vest or jacket (depending on the temperature) and I am good to go!

If one goes looking for a velour track suit these days, they are very easy to come by at various size and price points.  Some of my favorites are Juicy Couture.  I think of clothing in two ways, as art and as investment pieces.  I know one would say “a track suit as an investment piece?”  If you wear them a lot, like me, then you will want something that will last wash after wash and not something that will fall apart. Juicy calls us plus size ladies, Extra Juicy.  I am ok with that.  I think it is more of a compliment than a negative.  They are also featured on Nordstrom, Bloomingdales and Saks.  I fish around for the best sale.  Nordstrom has a price match guarantee.  They also give a two week grace period for price adjustments and have excellent customer service!

NY&CO, formerly, Lerner’s has some delicious tracksuits in an array of colors.  They go up to size 18 and they are super comfy!!  Old Navy and Gap have some fabulous alternatives also.  Old Navy  has a beautiful shawl collar cardi that is a great addition to your workout or lounge wear.  I suit up in one of these puppies with my pants, sneaks and vest and go walking at night!  I have a Gap suit that I have had for three years and looks as good as new.  The material is thick and has not faded at all!

Another tiny word to the wise, flip flops, Uggs, Converse, Nike, Puma, et al., are the only suitable and acceptable footwear.  Don’t even think about wearing heels!  There are just some places you should not go.

So, my casual and chic ladies, there you go, a plethora of velour for your lounging pleasure!