Get the Gear: Running in Style

Forget baggy tracksuit bottoms and an oversized grey T-shirt. Running makes you feel good – so why not look good too? Daralyn Danns checks out the most stylish gear...

BUYING TIPS:

"The clothes you run in should be comfortable and fit you properly," says Phil Talbot, co-owner of the London Marathon Stores and Runnersworld.

What to buy:
As well as finding a flattering cut, buy sweat-wicking fabrics.

Here is how they work:
Cotton doesn't absorb water so once it is wet it will stay that way.
Wicking fabrics draw moisture away from the body.
* They are made from water-repellent man-made fabrics such as high tech polyester.
* The sweat is carried away from the body so that it travels through the fabric and evaporates on the outside of the fabric.
* Result, you stay cool and dry.
* Look out for names such as CoolMax, Supplex, Lightning Dry and Dri-Fit.

Fabrics that contain lycra or elastane make fabric stretch. sweatyBetty advises looking for garments with higher levels of elastane (5% plus) as these help you perform for longer - the elastane supports your body and reduces the vibrations in your muscles.

TIPS FOR LOOKING GOOD:
1. "Keeping to black on the bottom half will be more slimming," says Amanda Slader, John Lewis's chief fashion advisor. "Only go for tight or crop tops if you've already got the body for it. Don't forget running or even fast walking means wobbly bits will wobble!"

2. "Co-ordinating your outfit is key to looking great," says Katy Biddulph, a designer for sweatyBetty. "Bright colours are both feminine and fashionable. Hot pink is going to be big for the autumn."

3. "Knee tights are good as they hold you in, hiding your lumps and bumps. Go for shorts, if you have good legs," adds Phil from London Marathon Stores (londonmarathonstore.com) and Runnersworld (runnersworld.ltd.uk).

4. "Look for garments that use seamless technology," advises Katy. "It not only helps flatter the body and makes it look slimmer, it also reduces friction."

CLOTHES THAT SUPPORT:

* The new range of clothing by Asics (asics-running.com) incorporates Inner Muscle technology that will help to improve your posture. Try the Ashford Short-sleeved round neck shirt. (£40). Utilising its "Diamond Back" technology, Inner Muscle helps to align the muscles and stabilise the joints. As a result, breathing efficiency is improved and body movements become both smoother and stronger.
* Capri pants such as New Balance's (£25, newbalance.co.uk) are hot right now. They are supportive and wicking. They also have an invisible side zip pocket.
* If you prefer full-length, try New Balance's Jazz Pant, which are semi-fitted. They are also supportive and wicking. (£22, newbalance.co.uk).
* Nike Tech Stretch Short (£22, www.nikestore.com for stockists call 0800 056 1640). This Dri-Fit running short fits tight to streamline your figure and features a double-layered seat for added warmth and support. Side inset panels add fast-looking style while an elastic waistband and drawcord ensures a personalised fit.

WHAT'S HOT?
If you want to push the boat out and stand out from the crowd, take a look at the new adidas by Stella McCartney collection which includes the blue Run Performance Jacket (£130) which will be available in adidas Sport Performance stores and Stella McCartney boutiques from Aug. (For stockists call 0870 240 4204). This range blends practicality with great style.

AND WHAT ABOUT MAKE UP?
Not brave enough to leave home without make-up? Bobbi Brown, world-renowned make-up artist says: "Sweat-proof make-up for sports is all about knowing what to wear and what to skip. If you can combine being athletic and being natural and pretty, the combination couldn't be more amazing."

A tinted lip balm with SPF and brown mascara such as Bobbi Brown No Smudge Mascara, (£15, bobbibrown.co.uk) will add colour to your lips and definition to your eyes without looking like you are running in full make-up.

AND ACCESSORIES?
*The perfect accessory to complete your outfit is Nike's Running Hydration Pack (£13, nikestore.com), a bottle sleeve on an adjustable padded belt, because if you aren't drinking enough fluid, you definitely won't look good.
*Nike's Running Shoe Wallet is perfect for putting all your keys and money in. This compact wallet clips onto your shoelaces. (£5, nikestore.com).
*sweatyBetty's Race light bag (£25, sweatyBeaty.com). Holds water bottle in stretch mesh pocket. Back pocket lined in microfleece, can hold iPod, phone, keys, money and lightweight jacket.

Keep checking for more tips on looking great when training