Friends, I am so excited about today’s post!!
I feel like after almost 12 years of blogging, my worlds have finally collided, and I’m absolutely GIDDY over this sponsored post today because IT’S MY FAVORITE BRAND EVER.
Ever.
Yes, ever.
I was ECSTATIC when the sweet people at Athleta and Shop-Style asked me to collaborate with them.
ATHLETA!!!!!
If you’ve read this blog for any amount of time, then you know I SWEAR BY ATHLETA. I have been a devout customer for years and years and year. I have been wearing their athletic apparel and their swimsuits exclusively for gosh, I don’t know? Eight years? You know this about me. I bet if I were to look back at my 4,287 posts, you would see me wearing something Athleta in 1000 pictures. I legitimately wear it every single day. Here is just a very tiny sampling I found scrolling through my blog…
So, why do I love Athleta so much? Here are a few reasons why…
1: Everything lasts for YEARS. I have pieces in my closet right now that are downright old, but I continue to wear them because they look as good as new. I wash and dry everything after each wear, and they continue to hold up, the colors continue to be vivid, the sizes don’t change (no shrinking), they don’t get stretched out…they last.
2: They fit! No baggy, loose or saggy pieces here. They fit with each wear. I always buy bottoms (swimsuit bottoms, shorts, tights, pants) in an xs and then I buy tops, tanks, sports bras in a small. I also buy jackets and sweatshirts in xs as well.
3: The people in store are super knowledgeable! We got an Athleta store at our local mall just a few years ago (before that, I had been buying everything exclusively online), and the women who work at my store are so helpful! They know exactly what I need for what I’m doing, they always tell me if I need something other than what I’m looking at (something that would perform better), and they’re always oh so sweet!
4: That being said, I do buy online most of the time (because it’s just easier), and it always arrives quickly and if I do have to return/exchange, that’s easy too! I also love their “give it a workout guarantee”. Even if you take the tags off and wear it, if it doesn’t fit and work for you, you can return it. Sometimes, you just do not know if a piece is going to work until you actually try it out…and they understand that.
5: I find their catalog inspiring. Is that weird? Because I do. In fact, I’ve mentioned it on here many times before! Whenever I pick up their catalog in store or receive it by mail, I always LOVE to sit down and flip through because it makes me want to work out more, eat better, go outside, run around with my kids and just be ACTIVE! The women in the catalog make me HAPPY! They have young girls, older women, girls of all sizes, shapes and races. It’s just filled with healthy looking women doing amazing things from rock climbing to surfing to yoga and more. I LOVE IT!
So, for this post, they asked me to feature a few items of my choice. Easy peasy! Here’s the kicker, I went online to see if I needed to buy anything and I actually realized I could feature stuff right out of my closet! And guess what? So could Kensington!! Because I’m such a devout shopper, I started buying Kensington pieces from their Athleta Girl department for her to wear to tumbling, volleyball, some dance classes and just playing outdoors. We both wear it all the time! Just take a look at us showing off our love for ATHLETA… 
No makeup, bare feet and of course, on our Athleta yoga mats (we have had these for years!) is how we roll! If you swing by my house at any given moment on any given weekday, this is how you’ll find us.
Here are our outfit details (all right out of our closets!!)…
KENSINGTON’S TANK: It’s reversible! You can wear it pink or flip it around and wear it white!
KENSINGTON’S SPORTS BRA: They have a great selection for young girls.
KENSINGTON’S SHORTS: They also make adult shorts in this pattern too!
MY TANK: I probably have this tank in 12 colors. I wear them every day from yoga to running, spinning and my HIIT classes, this is all I wear. And let’s be real…I wear them a lot on days when I don’t even workout!
MY SPORTS BRA: I’m wearing black here (and lavender below) and find them great for both light impact and heavy. It also comes in a million colors.
MY TIGHTS: I just haven’t found anyone who makes tights/pants comfier than Athleta. I love the band around the waist because it doesn’t cut you off (it’s higher and really flattering).
Look, here I am again in head to toe Athleta…
…same tank and sports bra but in different colors and then my favorite shorts…
I like to tie off my tanks in the back but you most certainly can leave them un-tucked or tuck them all the way in!
Look, I found this pic on my phone too…
…repeat, repeat, repeat.
Guess what else Kensington and I already had in our closets from Athleta…
…SWIMSUITS!!
Without a DOUBT, my favorite swimwear comes from Athleta. I looked back to see and waaaaay back in…
…2011 I am wearing an Athleta swimsuit in Bermuda. I have no idea why the photo is so small (this was pre-iPhone for me), but here I am, wearing Athleta swimwear and today, I still am…
…here I am this season alone wearing three different Athleta swimsuits! The first one is super cute (you need to see it!) HERE and then the other two I liked so much that I bought it twice in two different colors HERE. I’m wearing all three tops with these bottoms.
I love wearing these little shorts as a coverup along with their rash guards. I’m wearing these swim bottoms underneath and this bikini top in black.
Kensington’s swimsuit is HERE and her cute shorts are HERE.
If you’ve never scrolled around and looked through Athleta’s swimwear, you should. From one pieces to tankinis, board shorts, surf tops, bikini tops and bottoms, coverups and much, much more, there is something there for everyone. If you’re an active swimmer (ie. you’re swimming in the ocean, surfing, etc), and you haven’t tried these pieces then you’re really missing out! You will love them! I wash all of my Athleta swimwear in the washing machine and then hang it to dry. I promise you, I have swimsuits in my drawer right this minute that I still wear all the time that are at least 6 years old. They hold up remarkably well!
Have I gushed enough?
Look? Found another pic 🙂 .
I know that you know this is authentic because I’ve been gushing for years! I love this brand. I love the actual clothes, but I also love how they encourage women to get out and be active. They call it “the power of the she” and as a mom of three girls, I want them to find brands that motivate them to be the best version of themselves…happy, active, confident and self-assured.
Whew!
That’s a lot of talk for the day after Memorial Day!
I want to hear your feedback! Do you love Athleta too? Do you flip through the catalog and want to kayak or surf? Um, I do. True story, I am always asking Andrew for a kayak for Mother’s Day to kayak across the lake in our neighborhood. He’s always like “how are you going to walk a kayak down to the lake?”, and I’m always like “I don’t know? The Athleta girls do it!”. See? They inspire me 🙂 . I’m super thankful that they asked me to do this post…it really was such a compliment since I sincerely do LOVE them!!
Erika Slaughter says
You need to frame those pictures of you and Kensington! They are so cute!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
Congratulations, Shay! I can imagine how awesome it must feel to partner with your favourite brand! I’ve never heard of Athleta before, but I’ll check them out now! 🙂
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Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Ash says
I love Athleta too and I’m so glad I found your Blog! One of the best things about athleta which UA and Lululemon don’t allow is you can return anything after you try it out! They do have ridiculously comfy clothes and yoga pants and cardigans. My love for athleta is very deep also!!
Ahna @ Hammers N Hugs says
Fun post! I am an Under Armour girl myself, but in support of “the power of the she” (and your post, ha) I’m going to give Athleta a whirl!! 😉 What size shirt do you typically get? Pretty true to size like GAP, or do they tend to run big/small? Sorry, you may have already addressed that, and I missed it.
Mix and Match Mama says
I have my sizing listed in the post because it does vary. For bottoms, I buy xs and then tops, I buy small (except for jackets and sweatshirts, I buy xs). I feel like those sizes are consistent across the brand for me. Give it a try!!
Lauren says
Forget the catalog, this post is what inspired me to get outside and be active today! You’re the perfect blogger to match with Athleta! Congrats!
Mix and Match Mama says
Ah! Thank you so much!!
Narci says
How fun is this! You are so right! Athleta has the best items! So well made and cute! Love all these pics of you with K!
CampDallas says
I absolutely love Athleta, too! Like you, the catalog is a fave and in this day and age, I sure hope they never stop sending them! I just placed an order last night and after seeing your post, there are a couple more items I’m going to go back for! Thanks!
susan jeffries says
Great pics of you and your daughter! Atheta is my favorite brand of work out clothing! Thanks for sharing!!
Nicole says
I’m an Athleta girl!!! I’m wearing it every single day too! I always love seeing your faves from there!
Jennifer says
They are a “B” corp as well
Michelle says
I love Athleta!! I have been wearing their swim wear exclusively for years and love their workout/ lounge wear!! I still have pieces in my closet from 2010! Awesome partnership!
Mary says
I love Athleta!! The swim suites are the best!!
Sheaffer Sims says
I’ve never shopped Athleta in the past, BUT I’M ABOUT TO RIGHT NOW! And that first picture of you and K by the pool is gorgeous!!!
Karen says
I love Athleta! I just started buying my daughter a few things also. She’s only 6 so I don’t buy too much since she’s growing so fast but she likes to put on her athleta “workout stuff” when she does her cosmic kids yoga videos after school to “relax” haha!
Nicole says
Did you size up one in the swim shorts? You did in the past, so wondering if you did this time too!
Mix and Match Mama says
My swim shorts this year are an xsmall!
Alexis deZayas says
I’m a big athleta fan too! I love their tanks, jackets, leggings and even linen pants!
Mary Ellen Cook says
Athleta rash guards are THE BEST!!! I wear them all the time!
Erica White says
I actually started purchasing their swimsuits because of your recommendation two years ago and I love them!!! I may have to check out some athletic wear now! 🙂
Lizzie says
I’m just echoing what you said about quality. These things wash beautifully and still look new years later. And the styles are fun and cute, but basic/classic enough to stand the test of time. My girls (10 & 8) practically live in athleta clothing.
Tabitha says
Those photos of you and sweet Kensington are beautiful. Were they professionally done? Seems like it! May I ask who took them?
Beth Knecht says
You inspired me to give Athleta a try a couple of years ago! Now I will only wear their winter running pants because they’re so warm that no other brand can compare! Just placed two more orders over the weekend to stock up before our Hawaii trip!
April says
Love Athleta! I’m 5’11” so it’s great that so many items come in “tall”.. and the fact I can use my Gap credit card ??
Debra says
Love this!! Can I ask how much you weigh? ☺️
Mix and Match Mama says
I don’t know exactly…but probably somewhere in the 114 ballpark.
Steph L says
Tell Andrew – Kayak Cart. My sister uses one all the time. She also SUPs and has a cart for that. No stopping her – beach, lake, or river.
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m telling him right now!!
Jess Wade says
LOVE Athleta! Actually just placed an order last night for swimsuits for a Hawaii trip coming up at the end of the summer! I also have swimsuits, running tights, tanks, etc. that I’ve had for YEARS and they still look and wear like new!
Lisa says
Love all the pictures with your daughter! Beautiful! Going to place an order!
Britt says
Athleta is the BEST. I have three pairs of workout leggings (with the drawstring.. that is crucial), two of which I’ve had for over two years and they still look as good as the day I bought them. The best.
Rachael says
Love the last comments about the Kayak…Hilarious! Reminds me of me and my husband. Love reading your blog – it’s one of my favorites! And Athleta is super awesome too!
Beth Valenta says
Athleta is wonderful! This was the first time that a woman helped me to actually find a top to fit…36DDD is just to say the least…a pain.. Athleta did it though! I have a black and emerald green and wear them all the time. The catalog is very inspiring, as they do show REAL bodies. 🙂 Thanks Shay!
Sara says
Their barre leggings are the best!!
Emma says
Do you ever have an issue with the leggings pilling?
Mix and Match Mama says
Never. Nope. Not at all.
Brooke says
Super cute pics and I love Athleta too!! I was waiting and waiting to get to the end of the post hoping there was going to be a coupon code though!!
Kate L says
I LOVE Athleta and their “athleisure” wear is the best. I love their shorts but recently got their Soho skort and it’s awesome and super cute. In winter I live in all of their various joggers and sweatshirts – the softest around. And like you, I still have swimsuits and clothes from 5+ years ago that are like brand new!!
Tracy says
Great pics of you & your girl. I’ve never bought anything from them. Will have to check them out.
Elspeth Mizner says
Love the mother/daughter photo shoot! She is looking more and more like you every day. I am always on the look for more workout clothes-I will definitely look into Athleta!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Sara says
I started shopping at Athleta about 5 years ago. I got a rash guard to wear when I paddle board in a nearby lake. And I have never looked back! I am addicted to their pants and their tights are awesome! I have jackets and tees and sweatshirts and swimwear… I just love everything Athleta! I have also started shopping there for my 12 year old daughter because all the other athleisure wear I bought didn’t wear well or last. But she has Athleta Girl tights she has worn for over a year & they still look new. Loved this post and completely agree!
Taylor says
You & Kensington are the cutest! Your posts have been so fun lately! I always love reading whatever you share on your blog but lately your posts have been sooo good! Congrats on the sponsorship?
Mix and Match Mama says
Ah!! Thank you, Taylor!!!
briana says
I’ve been loving Athleta’s catalogues lately. The models are so diverse and it always leaves me feeling inspired and empowered after looking through them.
briana | youngsophisticate.com
Mix and Match Mama says
YES!! I totally agree!
Dawn says
I love Athleta swimsuits but haven’t tried any of the other pieces. You have motivated me to try more!! Thank you.
Alison Trauger says
Yes! I love Athleta. The fact that they carry petite sizing in their leggings makes it a sincere go-to brand for me! Aside from their obvious flare for fitness apparel and swimwear, I love their dresses! If you haven’t tried any out yet, you should. They are sooo comfortable and can easily be dressed up or down. Summer staples for me. 🙂
Janie Reienrt says
Great photo shoot of you & Kensington ! I need to go check Athleta out !!
Beth says
I really like the Athleta brand, too! I normally wait for sales and mark downs because they are above my normal price range, but it is worth wait! I have several pair of running shorts and a couple of workout tanks and they hold up so well! I even search for Athleta items at my local consignment shops because I know it is so well made they make great second hand pieces. No shame in my game! 🙂
Kerri says
Same here…ATHLETA is my jam! Been a loyal customer for many years! Love everything. And now my 11 year old does as well! She just got 3 new bathing suits for the summer!
andrea in mn says
My daughter (age 12) also wears Athleta Girl, and we both wear their suits too. Banana Republic is a sister brand, and I wear BP to work pretty much EVERY SINGLE DAY, and likewise have the the pieces for YEARS and they are OLD… as you mentioned about Athleta. Simple good, high quality brands!
Stephanie hines says
Nothing compares to Athleta! I find that slowly my entire wardrobe is clothing from there because it fits well, and is functional. It’s hard to find quality clothing that holds up to washing and normal wear, like you I have pieces that are pretty old, and they still look great!
Rhonda says
We love Athleta in our house! My daughter (14) lives in the leggings and I love all the cozy sweatshirts. I have three! Of course we both wear the swimwear. She has had the boy shorts for a few years now. So comfortable.
Amy Dietz says
I love this post and sponsorships like these! I would rather spend my money on quality and have fewer things than higher quantity but not good quality.
Debbie says
So impressed……handstands, both you and Kensington woot woot!! ?? ?? and those pictures of you and Kensington….Gorg! Congrats on teaming up with your favorite brand. So exciting! I may need to try a tank. It looks so comfy!
Adrienne N says
Your list of why you love them is exactly what I’m always telling my friends! The pieces last YEARS and are worth investing in something that’s as good as new every time you wear it. The only reason I’ve bought new tights and capris is because I love the newer styles with pockets! And my husband thinks I’m crazy when I talk about how much I love the catalog and seeing the rock climbers and surfers and reading their stories ?
Kristen says
I LOVE ATHLETA! Hands down – best swimsuits!!
Arika says
Hmmm, I wonder if I can use my Gap credit card rewards at Athleta. I will have to check, that would be a great way to try it.
Mix and Match Mama says
I do believe you can!
Annaliese says
Are you still doing the dipped nails? If so (or not) can you tell me the color your wearing in the yoga pics with K?
Mix and Match Mama says
I am!! It’s color number 164 (if that helps???).
Cassie D says
Yes, I love Athleta’s workout clothes and swimsuits, too! And my daughter loves them. I really appreciate the models of all sizes and races in their catalogs. I also love their concern and practices to help save our environment. Very inspiring!
Krista says
I have always looked at the Athleta catalogs when they came to my home, but never purchased because of the price. I finally got my first pair of leggings from there and I will never go back! They are wonderful and I want to wear them all the time!
Niko Whitson says
Shay, tell Andrew you will strap the kayak on top of the golf cart!!!
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says
I totally get inspired by the catalogue’s too! I love all the bright colors and my bathing suits that I’ve bought from their hold up year after year!! Great brand!
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams
Ranisa Brletich says
Last year my 17 year old daughter could not find a swimming suit. We went everywhere. She has a extreme hour glass figure and she is very modest. She wants either a one piece or a tanki. Which in most cases offer no support for larger bust. You can find support on bikini tops but not one pieces-without looking like a grandma. When we finally ended up at Athleta Every piece she tried on fit perfect and supported her well. We will avoid the tears in the future and just head straight there.
Mandi says
I have never commented before, but I feel strongly about this – yes, you CAN carry a kayak down to the lake!!!!! There are carts with wheels, but even without one, you could totally do it. I’m super tiny and I carry my 28 pound paddle board to the lake and beach all the time. It’s heavy and hard, but I CAN do it. And so can you. ??
Mind over matter and you get a workout. Get out there, girl!
Raquel says
I have worked at Athleta a few times and even the Management and employees are amazing! I loved every second of working their and everyone’s priorities really are the customers and making “her” feel empowered! Not to mention the employee discount is incredible 😉
They also have a men’s line called Hill City. It’s associated with Athleta but can’t be found in stores quite yet. I bet Andrew would love their pieces!
Patty says
I love Athleta swimwear too. They are good for being active but also so cute. They are also Good as a mom without looking frumpy. Both of these options are hard once you hit a certain age. Athleta really gets it.
Patty
Goodbetterbestfood.blogspot.com
Jen says
I have some swim tops I love from there. Do they ever offer sale codes? I know sometimes certain things are on sale, but I mean overall?
Mix and Match Mama says
I will say, they don’t have sales very often. I feel like maybe they have 2 or 3 big ones each year (like their friends and family sale).
Ila says
Hands down the only athletic gear I will buy. I have been a loyal fan for years and their swimsuits are the only ones I will wear! Now off to shop for some more cute items!
Mary Jane says
It’s only a matter of time before we see YOU in their catalogs!! They need to work on that STAT!!
Sarah Madsen says
I loveeeeee Athleta!!! I also consider myself a devout shopper..my mom would say the same thing. They have such amazing quality in everything, and the swim suits fit me so well, I will only ever buy Athleta swim again!!
Lauren says
Okay I know this is sponsored and you LOVE athleta, BUT how do you feel that their workout clothes differ from Lululemon? I love both brands SO much, but just curious on your opinion!
Mix and Match Mama says
I only have one thing from Lululemon (a pair of tights). I just love Athleta so much that I don’t shop at Lulu.
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
I love Athleta! I love how friendly their staff always is every time I walk into the store. I never feel intimidated or out of place and I think they make that a priority! I also love the fact that you can return it if you end up not liking how it fits when you work out!
MeetTheShaneyfelts
Patricia Anderson says
I’ve never shopped Athleta before since I assume I’m not their target demographic. I’m middle aged and not exactly svelte these days, but I’m pretty athletic and would LOVE to find a company which caters to ALL ages and sizes. Guess I need to check them out! (You and Kensington are so adorable together!)
Michelle Ragsdale says
i have a question about the swim shorts, do they have a liner? (would be wearing them in a pool to swim, and not wanting them to float up) what is the inseam? I have checked the site and these details are sometimes unclear…Thank you…love your blog!
Mix and Match Mama says
They do!! My mom often wears them in lieu of a traditional swimsuit bottom.
Bethany says
Yay! What a fun post! Congratulations, Shay!
Natalie says
You actually got me hooked on Athleta about 3 years ago and I LOVE it!!! It’s the only athleisure/workout brand I buy now…much to my husband’s chagrin. ; ) Lol! The catalog always gets me – it makes me want to hike in my jeans and do yoga on the beach.
Kim says
Hi! What age did Kensington start wearing sports bras?? Debating for my step daughter!
Mix and Match Mama says
Hmmmm…maybe 8? I don’t remember exactly.
Kristy Moore says
Love this company but it’s time they come up here to Canada!
Holley@beesimplyorganized.com says
Shay, you are a girl after my own heart! I’ve always wanted a kayak! My husband is just like Andrew asking all the tough questions about transporting it. My answer we’ll figure it out! HAHA! I’m so inspired by your love for Athleta. I haven’t shopped there and I know I need to because you swear by it! And if you love it, I know it’s good!
Naomi says
This reminded me of you, hearing you talk about athleta or Nordstrom! Too funny! ? Enjoy! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1UOk6nVzpE
Lisa Brown says
I didn’t realize you’d been to Bermuda! Have you ever done a post on it? We had our babymoon there and LOVED it. Where did you stay? We’re planning to go back, does your travel agency work with Bermuda?
Mix and Match Mama says
I have!!! And we do!! Email us because we’d love to send you too! I love Bermuda!!
Jennifer Wolf says
I love Athleta, too. Over the past, maybe 3 years? I’ve purchased a rash guard (same as yours, but in a different color), swim shorts, 2 tankinis, and 3 bras. Last week I bought another pair of swim shorts in a different style. I’ve never tried their tights, although they look amazing. I’m also interested in their dresses but haven’t tried any. If you ever try any of the dresses, I’d love to see what you think. I wish they had more sales (and that the % off of the items in their sale section was greater), however, the pieces are high quality and will last a long time, so they’re worth it.
Ann Reedy says
I don’t think anyone has mentioned this but one of the (many) things I LOVE about Athlete is that they will take up pants for you for free! Obviously you need to be near a store and there are certain styles that are excluded (like the denim) but it is an amazing service.
Jennifer says
I love Athelta’s swimwear. One of the pieces I have is the swim shorts in black. I’ve had them for about 3 years and love them, so this year I thought I’d buy a pair in navy, but the sizing has changed 🙁 The XXS I have fits perfectly, but the XXS in navy that arrived yesterday is huge. I’m so sad! I bought 2 styles and the other style also an XXS fits great, so I’m hoping next year they’ll go back to the sizing they used in the past for these. I love my tankini tops, too. I’ve been looking at their dresses for a while, but have yet to order.