I don’t know about you, but usually my travel outfits go something like this:
Headed out of town: Cute outfit!
Headed back home: Yoga leggings are all I can manage right now.
Anybody else? Show of hands?
But, look! Despite the mostly-gym-clothes outfit, I’m wearing a real sweater and a real scarf! Points for sprucing it up a bit and not going 100% workout clothes.
It’s a basic look — with that grey on black color scheme — but I feel great in it. Put together. All black has that effect, doesn’t it? Although, I have to say, I can only wear an all black outfit like this while traveling. At home, I have a pup who sheds tiny white hairs everywhere, so it’s just not practical. I’ve all but stopped buying any new black clothing because of it.
Let’s talk about these yoga leggings for a second.
(This is about to sound like an ad, but it’s not.)
These leggings are from Girlfriend Collective, a responsible startup that’s passionate about taking care of the planet + people. If you want to be in the know, read more about their ethics + manufacturing.
Also, their yoga leggings are free right now. Yup, free. You just pay for shipping, and you’ve got yourself a new pair of yoga leggings.
I’ve been wearing mine to yoga once or twice a week for about four months, and they still look new. The only downside I’ve found is that the crotch does sag a tiny bit, and I need to pull it up every now and then. But that might just be the way they fit on me. It’s slight, and not enough to be a deal breaker.
Other spots to find responsibly made workout wear? Beyond Yoga and YogaSmoga are my top two favs.
Okay, your turn! Do you tend to dress more on the real-clothes-side or the gym-clothes-side when traveling? Do any of you have Girlfriend leggings already? Also! Got any other recommendations for responsibly made workout gear? Share away!
See you Thursday — we’ll be talking about bulk-free layering.
xo,
• • •
Liked today’s outfit? You can shop it and support Unfancy at the same time by using these affiliate links below:
01 | Sweater (old) | similar ($56, made in USA)
02 | Vest by Marmot
03 | Scarf (old) | similar ($18) | similar in cashmere ($150)
04 | Yoga leggings by Girlfriend Collective (made responsibly) (Fit note: I got an XS)
I have a pair of the Girlfriend Collective leggings and love them! I have done tons of hiking in them and they have held up well. My one and only complaint would be they are too long for my 5foot 4in height. But, that is seriously minor for how well they fit me otherwise!
Hey Anne, did you get them tailored or just leave them long?
I was just going to ask this question! I am 6 feet tall…and I was wondering if they would be too short? Maybe not?! Its rare for me to find yoga pants…or pants in general that aren’t too short, unless they are specifically a long/tall style.
I ❤️ My GFC leggings: I am 5.8, 130lbs and a medium is a perfect length. I could wear a S, but I like high waisted garments so the M is perfect.
this helps thanks! I was going to order a medium…according to their size chart. I have a very straight figure…no hips. haha. But I am 6 feet and about 165 pounds. Wonder if the large would be better? I am almost never a large in leggings tho. large is always a bit too loose in other brands. this is why I don’t online shop much…too much variation in size and my body type often doesn’t fit into traditional size charts… :(
I have jeans from Girlfriend Collective and I LOVE them. They’re soft, stretchy, and oh-so-flattering. I love that they’re high-waisted but don’t dig into my tummy. Highly recommend!
I have those leggings and love them. Snuggly hold in the right places and super soft.
Thank you for sharing the leggings info! I’m looking forward to the bulk-free layering post.
For travel when I’m working, I tend to rely on Beta Brand (https://www.betabrand.com/) for their yoga pants/dress pants. They’re comfortable on flights and then I can wear them to meetings later in the trip. But I don’t think that they focus on ethical sourcing/construction/etc, so reading about these options is very helpful for travel/workout clothes.
I just ordered some Girlfriend Collective leggings after a friend told me about it last week. So excited! I won’t receive them until February though!
Likewise! Caroline I’m super surprised you didn’t mention the most amazing thing about these leggings: they’re made entirely of recycled water bottles (say wha??)!!!
I just make sure to wear something soft and cozy! Prana and Patagonia are two that I could think of. Prana has some pretty cool stuff!
Yes of course! Thanks for sharing, Evelyn! :)
I just put my order in for Girlfriend Collective leggings a week or so ago. Looks like they won’t be shipping until February.
I have Nina B Roze leggings (https://www.ninabroze.com/) that are made in LA, that I love the fit of.
Definitely more strictly workout wear – as opposed to “athleisure” but I also have a pair of Teeki leggings, that are made from recycled water bottles. They are also able to stand up well to heavy sweat (I do hot yoga in them). I also really like Mika Yogawear – and so far the shorts and tops I have bought from them have doubled as swimwear as well with no problems.
Thanks for sharing, Gabby. I’ll be checking those out! :)
I ordered my leggings from GC on November 3 and am still anxiously awaiting their arrival (when I ordered, it said they would ship in January). I was torn between small and medium, and ordered a small. I think I’ll be glad I did, seeing your fit note!
I’m a big fan of Beyond Yoga! I’m glad to have a couple other sources for yoga clothes. I’ll check them out.
I have to travel comfy – I find myself contorted into odd positions to get comfortable on planes and need stretchy pants and cozy tops to get there. I also ALWAYS take extra socks if I wear slip on shoes. I’m all about the comfort!
I agree, Kari. Comfortable travel = happy traveler! :)
I can’t stand leggings that sag! Leggings that sag in the knee are my biggest pet peeve. I’ve found a pair from savers actually by the brand poof that are my holy grail. Never stretch and are never see-through. You know that fear you have when you find the perfect piece of clothing that you fear you’ll never be able to replace when it finally wears out after hundreds of washes and wears? That’s the fear I have right now! Love this post as always!! xoxo
Those sound like a real gem, Kayleigh! I hope they never ever wear out for you. ;)
I’ve seen an add for the Girlfriend Collective, but yours is the most positive review I’ve seen. I might try them, but according to the size chart I’m in between the XS and Small. Do they have some give? Did yours shrink in the wash?
….. …. …..
In general I like to travel with cute outfits, but this next trip I’m taking to help out my mom post surgery, so it’s joggers and leggings all the way.
Hey Caralee, they have some give for sure and they didn’t seem to shrink in the wash. A little loose on the bum, so don’t know if you’d take that into consideration with your sizing, but I consider them true to my normal size. :)
I love to wear any kind of comfy clothes all the time. I stay at home 80% of the time so I rarely dress up and when I do it’s just to take pictures for my blog haha
I love your jacket! Where did you get it? I’ve been trying to find an ethically made puffer for winter :) Thanks!
Hey Carrie, it’s actually a vest! (From Marmot: http://bit.ly/2hrzKfO)
Got the Girlfriend Collective leggings pretty much as soon as they announced the company, and have been super stoked! They’re awesome for shifting from workout to regular life (I run in them, and run errands in them). And can’t beat the price ;-)
I’m definitely a gym cloth side girl. I just sat on a flight for 14 hours. Being comfortable is super important. :)
I’m trying to order a a pair and can only get to step 3 (share on Facebook). Anyone else having trouble?
In tiny letters under share on facebook it say “I have a different idea” and it takes you right to the shipping info page :)
It still didn’t work because I was on my phone (that link didn’t work period on my mobile). I had to switch over to my computer.
If you click the share on facebook button a new tab should open. You can then go back to the Girlfriend tab and complete the order process. :) good luck!
It worked after I switched from my mobile to my computer. Thanks!
Edit. I was originally trying to order through my mobile. When I switched over to my computer, it worked.
I’m wearing my GC leggings this very minute. I’ve never loved a pair of leggings more. I may live in them until April.
:)
I like this comfortable look, and thanks for introducing me to the Girlfriend Collective! xx, Marie
I have to say that I can’t do leggings as pants unless the shirt is long. Call it a product of my growing up in the late 80s/early 90s. No matter how skinny the girl I still think it looks inappropriate.
A long time ago I read an article by someone in fashion and she said somyething along the lines of “with all the clothing in the world, that’s what you decided to wear?” It’s stuck with me my whole life.
You look super cute, let me say that, I am not attacking you at all, I just personally can’t do it. But I do think that women have begun relying on leggings too much in the last few years. Maybe it’s just my age, now that I am in my 30s I feel better about myself when I’ve actually tried.
Jess, I’ve often heard fashion designers complain about leggings too — that they are basically the worst pants ever. Haha! But I guess when you live in a casual environment and comfort is very important, they just seem to work. Obviously, you know your preference and what works for you, regardless if the item seems trendy. And I applaud that. :)
Love the GC tip! What size are you wearing?
Hey Heather, I went with the XS and they fit great, other than having to pull them up once in awhile for the saggy bum. :)
…if only I could pull of sneakers like you!
Beautiful travel look.
http://www.katelately.com
Hey Kate! What is it about sneakers that you don’t feel like you can pull off? There are so many cool ones out there right now! I bet you just need to find the “right” pair. :)
My cousin just sent me the link to Girlfriend Collective last week and I ordered my first pair (and last for now given the spending moratorium on clothing for the next 4 months now that I have my winter wardrobe pretty much set up). I love the idea and how they are made. Thanks for the other recommendations. I am at the gym or hot yoga 5 times a week so my workout gear is usually what needs to be replaced the most.
That’s dedication, Kelly! Well done. :)
LOL I’m glad I’m not the only one who looks like a bum on the way home. This outfit is great though, totally cute and super comfy. Thanks for the tip on the leggings, I ordered mine today!
When it’s cold and I’m driving in a car for a long period of time (2+ hours) I’m always in leggings! Can’t be bothered with tight pants. But the top part of me might be a little dresser with a chunky sweater :)
http://www.insearchofsheila.com
Does anyone know what the cost of shipping is? Thanks!
Never mind, should have kept going!! It’s 19.99
I just got my GC Leggings in the mail yesterday– I’m so excited to try them out!!
I would like to order a pair of these – can anyone provide clarity on sizing? I am generally between a size 10-12, height is 5’3″ tall. I am thinking a large, but want to get it right the first time so I don’t have to send them back. thank you!
Hey Bethany, they have sizing measurements on their website here: http://bit.ly/2hBFXZW I would definitely measure to make sure. Mine were true to size. :)
Hi I tried to get the leggings but they don’t ship to New Zealand !
YouShop is your friend :-)
Bummer, Trudi!
I just got some leggings from PACT Apparel that are great, a wide waist band and nice snug fit. All their clothing is Organic Cotton and Fair Trade and I’m really happy with their camisoles and leggings.
Monica, yes! I’ve heard their stuff is great! :)
Like one of the girls in the comments already mentioned, I cannot do leggings without a long top over them. I feel like I’m in my underwear. It’s ok at home but not in public, not even in my car. “Leggings are not pants” is one of my style rules. I like them with a long sweater or minidress.
Yes, I’m all about the “cute outfit on the way there, slob outfit on the way back home”, and I see nothing wrong with it.
I feel the same. I only wear leggings for working out, but if I wore them out, it would be with a tunic length top.
Totally understandable, Tina! Enjoy them at home! :)
i love my GC leggings, and sort of accidentally paired them with a sweater and snow boots last week, and felt put-together-yet-comfy.
i also like to shop secondhand for a lot of athletic wear, particularly cold-weather running clothes. athletic clothing can get so pricey and so much of it isn’t ethically made (though there are some good options out there!), so thredup is my go-to spot!
Hey Joy, so smart! I always forget that you can get athleisure wear through Thred-Up! Good call. :)
I use BOOB OONO leggings (Once On Never Off) and loose pants now that I’m pregnant. And they are multi functional pieces that can be worn as leggings/yoga pants/home wear/under dresses or tunics or skirts. Also it’s eco friendly (Swedish company).
I love them so much because of the combination of nice look and extremely comfortable fitting that I’m going to wear them after birth as well.
The high waist can bedre pulled down so it looks like a regular pair of pants/leggings.
Kind regards from Norway
I’m loving this new “two wardrobes mixed” thing:) cute, cozy sweaters + active wear. Now you’re speaking my language!
Just curious what size did you get ? Do you feel their would be less saggy crotch with the right size ? Sorry for the weird question . lol
Ooops saw the fit note. :)
Wow!!! I loved this post. I just ordered my Girlfriend leggings. :)
Honestly, reading your blog has helped me to understand more about better ways to buy clothes and environmentally better options.
I am always grateful for the things I’ve learned reading your blog.
Thank you for sharing your wisdom and joys in fashion and such :)
Hi! Do you mind sharing the brand of the scarf your wearing? Thanks!
I love this!! I’m about to buy some– amazing.
Just ordered my pair and I’m very excited! Actually I would love to see an entire post on your workout gear. Also, this next comment relates to an older post (the one you did on undies), but I have three questions for you. 1) How many thongs do you own…sorry if this is kind of personal but i’m trying to reorganize my underwear drawer and am curious on your thong/brief ration. 2) Does the lace on your lace trimmed Victoria’s Secret bras show through your shirts? and 3) did you ever end up trying THINX? Sorry for the three part question but I’m so curious! :)
Hey Lauren, Let me answer some of these questions for ya! 1) I own about 12-15 of the Patagonia thongs. 2) the lace on the VS bra did show through some of my thinner shirts, so since the post, I also got this bra for such occasions: http://bit.ly/2h66or6 3) I did try the THINX! And I’m a fan! I don’t usually wear them during the day, but they are ideal for sleeping. Hope all that helps! :)
Since I often travel back home for several weeks at a time, I try to pack as light as I can and my travel outfit is just the most comfortable item I’ve packed. Mostly leggings and a large sweater. You’ve actually been on my mind this week, Caroline, as I prepare for yet another long trip home and am trying to figure out how to pack light + fit my husband, my baby, and my stuff all in one suitcase (I’m kind of an overachiever). I’ve been thinking about how traveling for a long trip is kind of like creating a mini capsule wardrobe. I try to take about a week’s worth of clothes (I do laundry) and I always focus on everything I’m in love with at the moment–only clothes that I want to wear all the time, so basically like creating a capsule. I think it could be a good way to start the process.
I just got my GC leggings and wore them to the gym for the first time tonight. I really want to love them, but they aren’t a great fit. My waist is a M and butt is L. They recommended that I order a L, but they aren’t tight enough in the waist and keep slipping down. They are also way too shiny to wear outside the gym IMO. I know Fabletics isn’t the most ethical brand, but their leggings are still the holy grail.
I love your posts! I’m wondering if you can post what you’ll be looking for in the upcoming sales;) !!!
Thank you for all your work & reflections!
If you are travelling in your car, I can see how leggings would work… But as a frequent air traveler, I am so over people who wear gym clothes to the airport… You are at someone else’s place of business, and unless you are a personal trainer, how would you feel if someone showed up to a business encounter with you dressed in sweats? There are plenty of other comfortable and stylish options to travel in, it all comes down to fabric. I do feel a difference in the way I am treated by staff at the airport when I look put together vs. overly casual… Try it…
I LOVE my Girlfriend Collective leggings and travel in them all the time. I can’t wait for their full line to launch in the new year. The leggings don’t sag on me at all, and I can’t wait for a slightly lower rise version. I think I’m going to try a variation of your outfit for holiday travels nest week.
Ohhh I’ve been on the hunt for ethically made yoga gear! Thanks for sharing!!
-Lauren
http://www.chic-ethique.com/
I LOVE my Girlfriend Leggings! Also, the material seems to be “slick” enough that it doesn’t hang on to dog hair like my other leggings. I wear mine all the time under sweaters and dresses! Also, I’ve read good (warm) things about the Patagonia Nano-Puff. Gretchen of Gretchen’s Closet says Costco has them at a good price but I haven’t had time to run by my Costco and see. I’m interested in something like that that will pack down small for trips.
Dear Caroline,
Your post is great!
I felt the over-clothing on my skin this past summer when I went to Rome for a weekend in July. It was so hot there but I was not thinking about that when I prepared my backpack and I dressed for Bucharest on my way to Rome: thick jeans, sneakers, thick socks, a horrible tee (i realised in the photos that i looked with a few pounds more in that tee), a jacked, a scarf and a tiny hat. Totally uninspired!
I would have preferred leggings, sneakers, a loose tee and a fit cap.(eventually a big scarf in case i would have got chilly during the flight).
Much more comfortable and suitable for that heat!
But now I have learnt it on my skin and yes, I am totally for the comfortable look including some gym clothes.
For travel, I like to feel free as I usually take long walks despite any extreme weather.
I usually go climbing a lot and I have that kind of equipment so I get inspired from it and try to be dressed nice and girly in the same time ( just in case I crash a party or want to look stylish while travelling).
Thanks for the tips!
Andreea
I ordered a pair of GC leggings which should arrive next month. Now I am nervous because based on reviews I ordered a S in these but I normally wear an XS in leggings. People were saying that compared to traditional leggings they didn’t have the same give. I really hope they work for me! They look great :-)
Just curious. What color combo Becka shoes did you get. I can’t seem to find them. Also, this is my first time on your blog. Sooo hreat. I just read your sweater post, so helpful! I will be following!
I guess I go half and half – I’m all about the jeans even when travelling, but I’ll match it with an oversized jumper for comfort and flat shoes. Your outfit here looks fab :)
Charlotte x
http://www.foxsocks.co.uk
it doesn’t work for me…even if I share it on my facebook wall, I never get past step 3 :(
I have a pair of these leggings and they are AMAZING! At first I thought that they were too small so I contacted the company and asked if I could exchange. I was advised to wear them for a bit and let them stretch and mold to my form and they were right! They truly are like your favorite pair of jeans! I love the material, it is so soft, and the high waist is perfect! I love them even better than the more popular brands of high waisted active wear out there! I honestly wear them more as weekend wear than I do for working out!
I’m OBSESSED with my Girlfriend Collective leggings but I’m so scared to wash them! Does anyone have any tips?
xo
Kara
http://www.thebostonista.com
Hey Kara, I wash mine on cold delicate and hang dry. They’ve held up great so far! :)