When it comes to fitness and staying active, finding the right athletic wear can make a world of difference. It not only enhances performance but also boosts confidence during workouts. At Cream Pie Studio, our founder and Creative Director, Steph Er, has a passion for fitness and understands the importance of quality athletic wear. In this article, we sit down with Steph to discover her top five favorite athletic wear brands. From sweat-wicking leggings to stylish and comfortable lounge wear, she shares her personal recommendations and what she loves about each brand.

Q: Could you briefly introduce yourself with one fun fact?
Steph: Hi y’all, I’m Steph Er, founder and Creative Director of Cream Pie Studio. I turn 39 in November, and here’s a fun fact about me – I love the stinky smell of my dogs’ muzzles.
Q: What do you personally look for in athletic wear?
Steph: There are various factors I consider when choosing athletic wear, depending on the specific workout or activity. Since I’ve been working out consistently since 2012, I engage in a variety of exercises such as spinning, yoga, strength training, boxing, and pilates. While I don’t squeeze all those activities into a single week, I aim for a balance of two cardio workouts and one strength or stretch session. Flexibility, comfort, and durability are essential features I seek in athletic wear to support my diverse fitness routine.
Q: What are you currently working on in terms of personal wellness?
Steph: In January 2023, I underwent emergency appendicitis surgery, which disrupted my fitness routine. The festive period prior to the surgery made it challenging to regain my previous physique. I experienced constant fatigue and a lack of motivation, which affected my mental energy and commitment to workouts. Unfortunately, these factors led to weight gain and a dip in self-esteem. However, after my daughter’s June holiday trip, I made a vow to turn things around. I’ve been focusing on adopting healthier eating habits and committing to at least three workouts per week. While it’s a gradual process to regain my previous fitness level, I’m determined to make steady progress. As they say, working out is a habit, and once you get into the swing of things, you won’t want to miss a class.
Q: And the big question: please share some of your favorite athletic wear brands, each accompanied by a brief blurb explaining what you love about it.
Steph’s Responses:
1) FAVORITE TRAINING LEGGINGS: Lululemon Align Tights Asian Fit
“These leggings are my go-to for training sessions. They excel in sweat-wicking capabilities, ensuring they stay in place throughout the workout. Additionally, the Asian Fit is a fantastic feature that prevents any discomfort or visibility issues.”
2. FAVORITE LOUNGEWEAR BRAND:
“When it comes to loungewear, TNA takes the crown. Their collection offers the most comfortable full-range lounge wear sets. With a wide range of colors to choose from, they truly spoil you for choice. Just a word of warning: once you visit their site, be prepared to splurge!”
3. BEST HIGH-WAISTED TIGHTS:
“For those looking for high-waisted tights that are both stylish and functional, Year of Ours is a must-try. These tights boast a super-high waist and score a perfect ten for style. I particularly love the mock lace on the front, which adds a touch of flair. While they hold steady during workouts, I personally prefer wearing them as athleisure rather than solely for working out. They pair perfectly with a cropped top and a cozy sweater during flights.”

4. BEST BRAND FOR STYLE: PE Nation “If you’re a fan of vibrant colors and bold designs, PE Nation is the brand for you. Their ever-changing styles each season ensure that nothing looks the same as before. I find their athletic wear versatile, suitable for both workouts and everyday wear. Their bra tops, in particular, can be styled to match your personal preferences, making them a standout choice.”
Finding the right athletic wear can greatly enhance your fitness journey. Steph Er, the founder of Cream Pie Studio, has shared her top five favorite athletic wear brands based on her personal experiences. From Lululemon’s sweat-wicking leggings to TNA’s comfortable loungewear sets, Year of Our’s stylish high-waisted tights, and PE Nation’s vibrant and versatile designs, these brands offer a range of options to suit different workout preferences and styles. Remember, investing in quality athletic wear is an investment in your fitness journey and overall well-being. So, get ready to elevate your workouts with these fantastic brands recommended by our founder!
Written by CHAT GPT