Finding plus size active wear that is functional, fashionable, and comfortable is a feat for any woman. The last year I have been noticing more and more companies developing a plus size active wear line for their consumers — some of it good and some of it just ok. There is also a faction of companies whose soul purpose is active wear, or in this case plus size active wear. State of Mind, a company out of the UK, makes plus size active wear like tops, bottoms, jackets, and swimwear in sizes 14 to 26 (see their size charts for exact measurements).

The lovely people over at State of Mind sent me five pieces from their active wear line to review for PlusShe.com readers. I have worn the pieces for walking (both outdoors and indoors), boxing, stretching, errands, and lounging.

French Navy Cosy Hooded Fleece — I found this jacket to be a bit small for a 26 (other tops are 24) but I am assuming it has a more fitted cut than what I am used to for jackets. I loved that it has zippered pockets to keep keys secure and if you have something bigger to carry, like a small water bottle, you can tuck it within an inner pocket.

No draft will sneak in this hood:

And it has nice thumbholes to keep the sleeves down and drafts out:

The back of the jacket comes down to round at the bottom. In all the photos I am wearing the Black Wishful Shrinking Flared Jogger with Rollover Band — The pants have a flexible waistline to suit those like me who like it high or those who like it lower. There is a little hidden pocket for key or iPod mini at the waist seam. My thighs rub when I walk and I did not notice any pilling (my last pair of Danskins pilled from friction).

Pants are nice and long, I hate when I feel like I am wearing pants that shrunk in the wash. The fabric actually more than touched my shoes (I’m 5’9″). I can hem pants that are too long but I cannot make short ones longer. On the site the pants come in capri, regular, and long (33″). You petite plus people out there, need to email them your interest in petite options.

You would not think something so small could be so irritating but this little logo kept catching at my wrist — the corners are a but rough and irritating but not something I could or would want to try and cut out:

White Cami-flage Top — The best thing about this top is the double layer of fabric in front so there is no need to worry about it being see through when you sweat. It has adjustable bra-like straps but I found the top too short for tucking in. It is not a top I would wear alone because any sports bra I would wear would be noticeable but it is a good layering piece.

Grey Ruched Tank Top — This top has a built in bra shelf and the fabric feels luxurious. The missed stitching/pressing on neck line of the seam tends to fold over itself. The ruching down each side is on trend and well, just looks so pretty. This nice looong top would be great for yoga classes and bike rides to keep the lower back from peeking out when stretched forward. Of all the tops sent, this is my fave.

Black Strictly Comfy A-line Flared Top with Bell Sleeves — I really like this top too. It has a great length and I love the weight of the fabric, I like the neckline which is revealing but provides enough coverage for activities. I would feel comfortable wearing this around the local track and then doing errands afterwards.

All the tops and pants are made out of 92% Polyamide and 8% Lycra which is an incredibly soft fabric that is thick and durable. I have not had this fabric before and I really like the quality and comfort of it.

I would consider State of Mind’s products to be “luxury” active wear, not in the sense that they are hundreds of dollars but I do not feel like they skimped on the fabric. When I was first introduced to the State of Mind brand I was excited to see their fashion pieces but kind of disappointed in their price points — a pair of pants is about $75 (prices are in pounds so this would fluctuate) — that was before I had the opportunity to see the material and workmanship; especially with the tops. Shipping is about $14 and is pretty reasonable considering it is coming from UK. And they have free returns worldwide.

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Topic Links
* Get your plus size active wear from State of Mind
* Another Blogger review of State of Mind product