A House of Guests and Two Random Debates

on March 28, 2013
in All Posts

We’ve had so much fun hosting so many guests over the past week!  First, my middle and high school buddy Lisette, and her husband came to visit.  And now, the Husband’s best friend Joe and his fiancée are here.

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Henry gave me a serious run for my money last night – he’s so good for days and days and then he wakes up a billion times in one night – but I had enough energy to do a yummy breakfast for everyone.

 

Quiche Cornbread with spinach and mushrooms:

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Kristien is working today, but I have a fun day planned for Joe and Jen (isn’t it cute when a couple’s name is so similar?).

 

And now… time for two random debates.

 

The first debate involves pillows.  Lisette, Danny, and I had a BIG discussion about this when they came to visit.  L + D are actually the cleanest, tidiest people I know, and every night before bed, Danny walks through their house and fluffs all the pillows. 

 

He prefers to do pillows like this – a tidy square.

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I, on the other hand, prefer to make two ‘horns’ on my pillows, like so:

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So – Debate #1:  Square or horns?

 

Debate #2 – this came up during the Brooks video conference call.  How do you feel about built-in bras and underwear for workout clothes?

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I love running shorts with built-in undies.  I would never buy a pair of shorts without them!

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But… I hate built-in bras.  Mainly because they never fit properly, and I always feel like I’m being suffocated.  I would never buy a top with a built-in bra.

 

Your turn. Winking smile

{ 136 comments }

 

  • Vikki March 28, 2013, 10:16 am

    Square and no built in underwear in any of my workout clothes.

    • Shari March 28, 2013, 12:09 pm

      I agree!

      • Dominique March 31, 2013, 9:34 pm

        A little late to the debate but I agree!

  • Laura March 28, 2013, 10:17 am

    I love built-in undies in shorts! But I don’t like tops with built in support-either not enough support or they are impossible to get into!! But I do like tops with build in support for something like yoga.

  • Jen March 28, 2013, 10:18 am

    Pillows: I leave them square, no karate chopping at my house.
    Built-in bra: yes for extra support
    Built-in undies: no thanks!

  • Emily March 28, 2013, 10:19 am

    I like the my pillows squared, although I don’t fix ’em every night 😉 And I totally agree….I can wear running shorts without undies built in! But tops, I have the opposite problem. There always seems to be too much room in there! lol

  • abbi March 28, 2013, 10:19 am

    #1 – square
    #2 – built-in for both. For tanks, they aren’t enough support for me but I’m usually a two sports bra wearer anyway so it eliminates the need for one of them! And, built in for shorts is great!

  • michelle March 28, 2013, 10:20 am

    Don’t have enough pillows to fluff, so I am out on that one 🙂 On the shorts/shirts question though – I love built in undies on shorts. It seems like every pair I buy fits perfectly! No creeping up and always comfortable. I just started buying them a couple years ago, and I have no idea how I did without them before. As for “built in bras”, I tend to avoid them. I do not like having my nips on plain view, and I feel like any shirt with a built in bra is a showcase for the girls. No thank you. Sports bra with light padding, shirt over the top please! (for me, anyway!)

  • Elizabeth @ Positive Change March 28, 2013, 10:21 am

    Square pillows for sure. And I am with ya on the shorts, I would never buy them without undies but I would never buy a tank with a built in bra. I don’t think they do support the way a real bra does, and I also feel suffocated!

  • Jessica March 28, 2013, 10:21 am

    I was JUUUST thinking about this! Maybe TMI but I LOVE undies in running shorts (I run mostly in Nike Tempos w undies) and I JUST started not wearing my own undies as well. WHAT WAS I THINKING!?!?! Built in undies= less laundry!!! Is that gross? lol. whatever works.

    • Caitlin March 28, 2013, 10:38 am

      Every one’s always thought it was odd that I don’t wear undies when running/working out – but 99% of my undies are thongs and I’m sorry, I can NOT run in that!! Not at all TMI!

      • Laura March 28, 2013, 11:49 am

        Did you see this Slate article where the author encourages women to skip underwear instead of wearing thongs to work out? It’s pretty funny.

        http://www.slate.com/blogs/xx_factor/2013/03/25/lululemon_s_see_through_pants_reveal_how_many_women_wear_thongs_to_exercise.html

        • Kerry March 28, 2013, 3:26 pm

          Haha, that is such a funny article. I have been debating the underwear or no underwear thing lately because my underwear is all thongs too! For yoga I still wear thongs (sorry) because it’s just usually what I’m wearing when I head to yoga. I don’t like not wearing undies under spandex, I just feel like everyone can tell! So I go with my old ratty grandma underwear or recently I have started to purchase spandex underwear for long runs from Title IX so I feel like my capris are still functional! But YES to built-ins for solving this problem 🙂

          http://www.titlenine.com/product/810961.do?sortby=ourPicks&from=fn#.UVSZXltATmM

          • Kerry March 28, 2013, 3:28 pm

            Oh and I forgot to add, I am getting into the shorts that have built-in spandex compression shorts underneath and I love them but I feel weird about not wearing undies with those… I should probably get over that!

            And, no to built in bras unless it’s for gym or yoga!

      • Kerry March 28, 2013, 2:25 pm

        Dude they get too sweaty.

  • Samantha Angela March 28, 2013, 10:22 am

    1: The pillow should be a perfect square

    2: I don’t wear shorts but i’m in the no built-in bra camp for tops.

  • Elise @ Expeditions of Elise March 28, 2013, 10:22 am

    Definitely square pillows. As for the bras/undies, I own a few pairs of shorts with built-in underwear but I still wear regular underwear so it doesn’t really matter to me. As for the bras, I would never not wear a sports bra with a shirt with a “built-in,” but they make everything a little tight, so I wear a less supportive bra, like one of my Champions with thin straps.

  • Regina March 28, 2013, 10:23 am

    1. Square.
    2. I love those Brooks shorts!! So cute. And I like built in underwear unless I have to wear real underwear with them and then the doubled up feeling makes it really uncomfortable at the sides. I hate built in bras because I still feel like I need a real sports bra and then having both gets bundled and heavy and tight and uncomfortable.

  • Laine March 28, 2013, 10:23 am

    Square pillows. And I do love my few running shorts with built in unders, but most of my yoga pants and running capris are under-free. I can’t do built-in bras (hi 34H) and I cut out all shelf-bras, unless I get my hands on the Freya Active Top, but even then I feel like I’d dislocate a shoulder trying to get a bra and shirt on at the same time.

  • Elle March 28, 2013, 10:24 am

    I’m with Jen here all the way!

  • Katie March 28, 2013, 10:26 am

    Square pillows!!
    I have never seen the “horns” before.

  • Blume March 28, 2013, 10:26 am

    Built-in undies: I always cut them out. I have an ample rear, and so the only two options for the way they can sit are giving me a wedgie or halfway down my butt.

    Also, I’ve never understood this about shorts with built-in undies: don’t you have to wash the shorts after every time you work out? I would usually wash my underwear, but probably get a couple of workouts’ wear out of the shorts between washings. But maybe I’m just dirty and gross. 🙂

    • Lauren March 28, 2013, 10:47 am

      I’m with you on the second part here! I think the only pair of shorts I own are spandex, but I totally agree- you would definitely have to wash them after every wear (even if you were just hanging out in them…)
      As for the built in bras- i’m very small on top so they’re fine by me. I have a couple from the Gap that I like but I can definitely see how they would be annoying if you were top heavy.

      • Jessi @ doctorate housewife March 28, 2013, 11:20 am

        Me too. I wear my shorts for a couple workouts before washing and just wash my undies. Shorts with built-in underwear, where perhaps nice in the summer, just means more laundry. That said, I haven’t really tried it. As far as tops go – they never fit me right. I guess I’d rather mix and match on all accounts.

        And for the pillows, I have a third option – square but set point down, so it looks like a diamond.

  • Courtney @ Translating Nutrition March 28, 2013, 10:28 am

    I love hearing that it is the guy who walks around fluffing the pillows. I have a similar guy in my house 🙂 I’m in favor of square pillows. No opinion on the undies/bra debate.

  • Steph @ A Life without Ice Cream March 28, 2013, 10:29 am

    I always do the horn thing with my pillows. Love the colour by the way!

    As for built in – undies bug me…I’d wear my workout shorts more times than underwear!

  • Amber March 28, 2013, 10:29 am

    Pillows with the dent- I was actually taught to do this by a marketing woman that sold apartments.
    Shorts with undies- yay!
    Tops with bras- nay, they never fit right, especially before/during/after pregnancy. Makes those tops un-wearable.

  • Barbie March 28, 2013, 10:29 am

    square and no built in undies – they don’t fit like undies and make me feel like i’m not wearing any!

  • Lori March 28, 2013, 10:31 am

    I like the square pillows the best. I also don’t like built in bras. Ugh!

  • Sunny March 28, 2013, 10:33 am

    Square and built in bra and undies! It probably helps that my boobs are tiny on this one!

  • Rocio March 28, 2013, 10:33 am

    Square pillows, somehow the horns seem messy to me :S sorry. It makes me want to go and fluff it out lol I might have a little ocd. I’ve never tried the shorts with built in underwear but I don’t think I would feel comfortable. I don’t like the built in bras either because they never give me the support I need.

  • Danielle March 28, 2013, 10:33 am

    Pillow Preference: I like diamond! I will square it out and put place it down with one of the corners pointed up towards the ceiling. I like to mix things up and play with shapes, textures, and fabrics.

    Built-in: The built in undies I wouldn’t mind but I agree on the built in bras. I do not like them they are not big enough, too loose, or too tight. I prefer using my own sports bra and tank tops. If I feel I need extra support I will grab a tank with a shelf bra built in. Sure they don’t work for people who are part of the BTC, but they help add extra support if you are already wearing a bra.

  • Sarah @ Yogi in Action March 28, 2013, 10:34 am

    I’ve never considered how I like my pillows before. I think square.

    I don’t like build in undies in shorts, and for yoga I love the built in bras, but for any other exercise, I would prefer without.

  • Ashley March 28, 2013, 10:35 am

    Square pillows are the way to go! I have to have built-in sports bras in tanks, can’t live without them! I have never tried the built-in underwear though…I feel like it’d be constricting!

  • Caitlin March 28, 2013, 10:35 am

    Yes to built in undies (even if the built in ones aren’t there, I still can’t run with undies on!) and No to built in bras. Do built in bras really work for anyone?? Even if my bust was small enough that I could go without a sports bra and rely solely on the built in bra, I think I’d feel really naked.

  • Emily March 28, 2013, 10:36 am

    Pillows: square
    Built-in undies: wouldn’t buy running shorts without them
    Built-in bras: my girls are pretty small, so as long as the shirt is TIGHT, no worries (but this only applies to workout gear…in regular life I DESPISE built in bras…I’m going to wear a real bra anyway, and the elastic on top of an underwire is so uncomfortable!)

  • Ashley @ My Food N Fitness Diaries March 28, 2013, 10:37 am

    I haven’t ever put a whole lot of thought into the pillow thing… I think for me, it depends on where the pillows are placed and their style. If it’s more of an elegant look, I’d go for the square look. If it’s more of a casual look, I’d go for the “horned” look.
    I totally agree with you on the workout clothes. Built-in underwear in the shorts for sure, but I could go without the bras in the tops. Some of them fit me okay, but they always seem to feel a little awkward.

  • Kay March 28, 2013, 10:37 am

    The built-in debate is making me think of the part of Macklemore’s “Thrift Shop” when he’s talking about the built-in onesie with the socks 😀

    I either avoid buying built-in bra tank tops or I automatically cut the support “bra” (cause really, they’re not a bra, not actually.) I usually wear running capris or tighter running shorts (almost like a bicycle short?) but I would feel sort of naked only using the built-in undies. That’s just me though!

    And as for the pillows, I like the first picture. Sorry–the second picture makes it look like a very, very small person was sitting on top of the pillow 🙂

  • Sonia the Mexigarian March 28, 2013, 10:39 am

    totally have to fluff the pillow 🙂 no horns, so square.

    not sure about the built in undies. I have two shorts with them and have yet to try it without my own pair underneath. . . as for built in bras, they don’t usually give me enough support or the straps dig into my shoulders 🙁

  • Mari @ Wine Required March 28, 2013, 10:42 am

    Square pillows are what I usually do. Undies are great, I don’t like the built-in shelf bras either. I love your dining room color and decor. Truly stylish and functional.

  • Maren March 28, 2013, 10:44 am

    I’ve never even heard of “horns”! haha I kinda like it though 😉 And I definitely love shorts with undies built it! My brooks ones are my favorite! I need a thicker band than the last pair I got though because my “loves” hang over 😉 Also, I think for bigger busted women such as yourself, built-in bras would not be supportive enough (my sister is bigger busted…okay her boobs are huge haha and she could never wear one!) but for women who got the shaft, like me, built-in bras rule.

  • Eli's Mom March 28, 2013, 10:46 am

    Karate chopping the pillows is just a trend. Square is clean and classic. As for running, I like to wear my own underwear both top (because I am almost a D now after giving birth) and bottom (just for hygienic purposes). 🙂

  • Tara March 28, 2013, 10:55 am

    Ha, funny! I’m the total opposite of you! I leave my pillows square, I’ve never seen them karate chopped! I also cut out the undies part if I buy a pair if shorts I love enough with the built in.

  • Amanda March 28, 2013, 10:58 am

    Square pillows! I have one pair of shorts with the built-in undies, and I don’t really like it. Too breezy up there. I usually wear spandex shorts when I run anyway. I also own one top with a built-in bra and don’t mind it because a) I have little boobs and b) it has cups in it so the nips don’t poke through. Otherwise, I’m all about my sports bras.

  • Sarah March 28, 2013, 11:01 am

    I love built in bras but I have never even thought of shorts with built in undies, I’m totally going to get some next time!

    I don’t really even notice our pillows, the dogs usually throw them on the floor so picking them up and putting them back where they go is about as much as I do 😉

  • elizabeth March 28, 2013, 11:05 am

    I think the shape depends on the pillow and overall decor. And I am with you, a pair of running shorts needs to have built in undies… but the only way I’ll wear a top with a built in bra is if the bra is supportive enough to run in without doubling up. Generally they’re not, but I have a few that are and the few that aren’t I wear casually (think Lululemon – it can be business casual!).

  • Jamie March 28, 2013, 11:06 am

    Square and tidy for sure! And I’m with you – I would never buy shorts without built in underwear but I’m not a fan of built in bras.

  • Rachel March 28, 2013, 11:09 am

    1) square – never seen the horns before

    2) I could see why built in undies would be nice, never had them myself. But I love built in bras! I am very small on top, so I don’t need much at all – I just make sure the ones I buy have a nice thick pad in them so I don’t get any surprises… You can see the outline of the bra part itself, but you would likely see that or more with a regular bra so I don’t care!

  • Gretchen March 28, 2013, 11:09 am

    Square pillows! I don’t mind built-in underwear, but I still wear other underwear with those shorts. Built-in bras don’t really work for me because I have bigger boobs on a smaller frame and need actual support.

  • Jillian March 28, 2013, 11:12 am

    I wear spandex sometimes and need underwear with that but with running shorts…always built-ins! Always!

    I only like my pillows squared but I definitely do not do it every night!

  • Paige March 28, 2013, 11:13 am

    I never heard of horns on a pillow- ours are all squared, perfectly. (OCD, much?! Haha!)

  • Haley March 28, 2013, 11:15 am

    Hi Caitlin! Saw this post and thought of you: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/una-lamarche/how-to-be-a-perfect-parent_b_2888253.html

  • Amber March 28, 2013, 11:18 am

    I”m with the majority it seems built ins for shorts are great fortops are not. In my opinion they just get in the way. I always need a ‘real’ bra anyway so they are just annoying and get twisted in the wash.

  • Joey March 28, 2013, 11:24 am

    Square pillows and no built ins. I guess I don’t mind the built in undies but I always wear my own underneath anyway…

  • Amber @ Busy, Bold, Blessed March 28, 2013, 11:26 am

    No opinion whatsoever about the pillows lol.

    I’ve never tried shorts with built in undies… I always thought they were just weird. Maybe I should give them a try…? As far as bras go… those built in shelves can’t handle me! But sometimes they are good as extra support with another bra.

  • Kelsey March 28, 2013, 11:34 am

    Tell me how to keep my dog from eating everything and I’ll put my throw pillows back out. Not a fan of built in bras/undies. I will buy them if I like the top/shorts, but not if they make a negative impact on the fit. Love the purple pillows, I’d buy them in turquoise!

  • Karen @ Runner Girl Eats March 28, 2013, 11:38 am

    I prefer square pillows. I don’t care either way for built in bras because no matter what too I wear I always have two sports bras on anyway. For shorts I lovvvveeee built in undies. I only have one pair without them and I only wear them to the beach, never running lol

  • Laura March 28, 2013, 11:45 am

    Square pillows! Whenever I see the horned pillows on an HGTV show it makes me wonder who started that trend.

  • kim March 28, 2013, 11:45 am

    As for pillows, I like square, but horns are okay too. I see a lot of horns in interior design magazines!

    I used to hate built in undies in running shorts and would cut them out…but now I am thinking, maybe I should try them? I usually just wear my own undies and then wear the shorts a couple more times…

  • Jessica R @ From the Kitchen to the Road March 28, 2013, 11:46 am

    I vote for square pillows and no built ins in anything. I like having more control over every little thing I am wearing.

  • Kelly March 28, 2013, 11:56 am

    Pillows – square. I think the ‘horn’ look actually looks less tidy. Maybe that’s the point – to infer a more lived in look.

    I do not like the idea of built in under garments. I have enough trouble finding things to fit the bottom half of me, so I think having underwear already in them would present another problem of fit for me. Plus, I agree with some of the other gals…the laundry would be more than just a pair of simple underwear because I don’t wash my workout clothes after every workout either.

    These debates are really what makes the world go around. I love them!

  • Rebecca March 28, 2013, 11:56 am

    I can’t stand shorts with built in underwear!

  • Michelle @ A Healthy Mrs March 28, 2013, 11:57 am

    Pillows: Square, although I have nothing against “horny” pillows 🙂
    Built-in Underwear: No thanks
    Built-in Bra: Not worth it for me, because they’re never supportive enough

    Cheers!

  • Avery @ SBLW March 28, 2013, 11:57 am

    YouR dining room is so pretty! I love the purple walls. As for workout clothes, I’m all for both!

  • Jessica March 28, 2013, 11:58 am

    Hi Caitlin,

    I realize this isn’t really on topic, but I just signed up to be a Running Buddy for an upcoming GOTR 5K in my area. I was wondering if you have any advice for this? I’m ready for the run, but I don’t really have any experience with girls this age, and I want to be as fun and encouraging as possible! Thanks in advance for any tips!

    • Megan March 28, 2013, 12:14 pm

      I’ve been a GOTR coach and am being a running buddy this year. Most girls their age will be really excited about the race and talk your ear off and it will be fun for them no matter what. If she’s having trouble with pacing, like starts out too strong and then wants to walk, encourage her to walk-run by picking a bush or light post to run to before stopping again. Distract her with things you see along the way. With all that going on, the race will be over before you know it and she’ll have had a great time with you!

      • Caitlin March 28, 2013, 4:01 pm

        Yay!!! I like to encourage my girls to run like different animals. Fast and growling like a cheetah! Slow and mooing like a cow.

  • Morgan March 28, 2013, 12:03 pm

    I leave our pillows square, but let’s face it, with a two year old they are typically on the floor anyway.

    I love built in underwear in shorts, HATE built in bras in anything. I will not buy a workout shirt or regular shirt with a built in bra. I wear a 32GG, which means that I need a small in most shirts, and the built in bras in small shirts cut across my nipples lol. No support there and they make me look like I have 4 boobs. I could go on about built in bras for hours, there was a time period when I was in college when I am pretty sure every manufacturer decided they needed to be in every shirt. Thanks, but no thanks.

  • Sarah March 28, 2013, 12:04 pm

    Horns on the pillows! Square is too stuffy and formal for my house.

    Built in undies on shorts are ok, but no built in bras! I like my tops to be loose so I usually buy a size up. A built in bra in a size larger would totally not work for my itty-bittys.

  • Rebecca March 28, 2013, 12:08 pm

    Depends on the pillow. If I’m sleeping on it, it gets squished and I don’t bother fluffing it much. If it’s on a couch for the sole purpose of being decor (why? It’s a pillow. Use it.), I’m not going to mess with it. If I’m using it for something (like a headrest or whatever), I let it do whatever it ends up doing and fix it if I need to.

    I don’t use work-out clothes, lol, but based on my experience with tank tops with built-in bras, I’d rather use my own underneath most of the time. Built-in underwear like in swimsuit bottoms has always felt weird to me, so I’d probably go with my own there too. Who knows.

  • Michelle March 28, 2013, 12:08 pm

    Always built in short liners, never built in bras. And brooks, if you are listening, thank you for the nice color update on ravenna 4’s – can we see some NEON? How about some HOT PINK?! 🙂

  • Megan March 28, 2013, 12:08 pm

    Finding tops without the bras is my life’s mission! I hate bras in tops. I only have one pair of shorts with the undies and I don’t love or hate them – no preference there…but those dang shirts!

  • Samantha March 28, 2013, 12:10 pm

    For the pillows, I am in between. 🙂 I do square, no -horns, but off to the side like your picture does. I’m a bit of a perfectionist and getting the horns equal would irritate me everytime I went past. I HATE built in bras. Absolutely no-support, I literally feel like I’m flopping all over the place for the entire world to see. Built in undies, no preference 🙂 I guess that’s more about how big of pile of dirty clothes I have. haha

  • Katie March 28, 2013, 12:11 pm

    Square. Horns do not look intentional or tidy; it looks like someone sat there and leaned on it.

  • Michelle M March 28, 2013, 12:11 pm

    Square pillows here.
    I’m with you on the built ins though. Running shorts, yes. Tops, no way! But I’ve got some obnoxious DD’s going on and the built ins never do what a bra should do for me.

  • Sara March 28, 2013, 12:17 pm

    Ha-ha that is two very random debates.

    1. Pillows- honestly when it comes to that kind of stuff, I do not think I would notice, so eitehr!

    2. Definitely no on the bras inside shirts. If they have them I wear a bra anyways. AND I like the underwear inside shorts, but I wear regular underwear with them… is that weird? LOL I thought you were suppose to.

    Hey they say you learn something new everyday.

    Sara 🙂

  • Katie @ Peace Love & Oats March 28, 2013, 12:17 pm

    I agree on the built-ins, love them in shorts hate them in tops. And I do the horn thing too, learned it from my grandmother!

  • Sydney March 28, 2013, 12:22 pm

    Pillows: are square until the dog sits on them
    Bulit-in bras: hate!
    Built-in undies: love!

    And I agree with the couple names… I’m having dinner with a couple (Matt & Meg) tonight. Even better is that they are like exactly the same… both over 6 feet tall and skinny as can be! So cute.

  • erin March 28, 2013, 12:27 pm

    square pillows. I hate the karate chop!

    built in undies YES! built in bras, UGH NO!

  • Erika March 28, 2013, 12:30 pm

    I like square pillows – I feel like the horned ones “ruins” the stuffing on the inside.

    I don’t mind built-in bras but I still wear my own anyways.

    I actually just got my first pair of shorts with built-in undies and I didn’t know if I was suppose to go commando with them or not! Ha ha. So far I’ve been wearing underwear with them but maybe I’ll try it without.

  • Logan @ Mountains and Miles March 28, 2013, 12:45 pm

    Square pillows.

    Built in underwear = aewsome…built in bras = meh. I think a lot may depend on your bra size..my sister LOVES built in bras, but she has a tiny chest..I, on the other hand, have a larger one. I just don’t find them supportive and then it’s just TOO much to wear a bra under the built in

  • nysoonergirl March 28, 2013, 12:48 pm

    I’m supposed to fluff my pillows?! Nightly?! I can honestly say that I have no preference to pillow fluffing as I just don’t fluff.
    I HATE running shorts with underwear. I refuse to buy any with built in undies so it’s incredibly difficult to buy a pair of shorts. Maybe I’d consider it if the undies were cotton, but they’re always some horrible non-breathing fabric.
    As for bras, I don’t care either way. I always wear an extra bra underneath the built-in one because I haven’t yet found a built-in that’s supportive.

  • Kris March 28, 2013, 1:07 pm

    I always chop my pillows and wouldn’t wear running shorts w/o built in panties, although I still wear a regular (thong) pair. I love the idea of running shorts w/ built in boy panties though. Tried on a couple of pairs at JCP and they were super comfy. As a 32DD, built in bras don’t usually work; I usually layer w/ a sports bra.

  • Jessica March 28, 2013, 1:11 pm

    Hi! I cannot believe this is my first reply as I read your blog pretty regularly! I buy the shorts with the undies only because I usually cannot find ones without – in general I find them to be pretty annoying and give me odd wedgies. And I hate shirts with bras mainly because they are far too snug.
    BTW- I work as a physician assistant and was evaluating a patient yesterday with a knee injury. She told me she had to get better ASAP because she was starting to become a coach for a program called…Girls on the Run! I was super excited to tell her I had heard about this via your blog. I love how influential you are in a variety of ways for all types of people.
    Jessica

    • Caitlin March 28, 2013, 3:59 pm

      🙂 thanks for reading!!!

  • Natalie @ Free Range Human March 28, 2013, 1:23 pm

    Definitely square! I don’t like clothes with built-in bras. They never seem to work right!

  • Julie March 28, 2013, 1:26 pm

    1. square (sorry!)
    2. I ONLY buy tops w/ built-in sports bras. 😉

  • Anne Weber-Falk March 28, 2013, 1:29 pm

    I’m all for squares, but I’m a big time fluffer, and no built-ins. I HATE the built-ins. Too many layers for me because I don’t feel comfortable going commando.

  • Jill @ a Girl in Progress March 28, 2013, 1:37 pm

    I haven’t jumped on the “karate chopping the throw pillows” bandwagon, although, I notice in my home decor magazines and on HGTV programming they always do it. I guess I like my even square pillows! By the way, I love the purple dining room! I painted my kitchen eggplant purple and I LOVE it!! I like seeing unique colors in houses.

    As for undergarments, I can’t have a built in bra for my tops. I’m WAY too chesty for that. I wish sometimes I could go without a mega supportive sports bra and just use the one that comes in the tank, but I don’t think that will ever happen!

    Undies, however, I do like. Sometimes I go ahead and wear a regular pair with the shorts and sometimes I don’t – depends on my mood I guess! Is that weird – to essentially wear two pairs of undies when I go running? 🙂

  • Kelly March 28, 2013, 1:44 pm

    Built in undies= absolutely! I’m with ya, I won’t buy running shorts without them.

  • Cate March 28, 2013, 1:45 pm

    Square for the pillow. I want it to look crisp!

    And NO built-in undergarments. I can tolerate the undies in shorts, but they tend to not stay put as I would want them to. And as a small-chested gal, I can tell you that the built-in bras generally have way too much lining material for me, meaning that the “bra” gets bunched up and looks horrible. I will not buy a top with a built-in bra.

  • Rachel March 28, 2013, 1:48 pm

    pillows? square
    built-in underwear for shorts? yes, please! they are awesome! i hate adjusting undies when i run and the built-in ones are so lightweight.
    built in bras? nah. they never seem to fit/provide enough support, and combined with another bra they are just annoying.

  • Elisabeth March 28, 2013, 2:02 pm

    Yes to built-in underwear, NO WAY to built-in bras! I have a very large chest, so they never, never work for me 😉

  • Avery @ YoungAspirations March 28, 2013, 2:07 pm

    Hmm.. I like both the square AND the horns! Depends on the pillow and where it is in the house 🙂 And I never really thought about the built in shorts or tops.. I buy them regardless. I think I do prefer the built in undies in the shorts. I feel like they hold everything in. I do hateeee built in bras though (possibly because I have no boobs)..but I can’t BREATH! I often have to cut slits in them just to be able to move comfortably.

  • Vicki March 28, 2013, 2:14 pm

    I am all about running shorts with built-in briefs! I dislike Nike Tempo but I have some Brooks that i really love. Not that I am running much these days… Tmi, but a few years ago my puppy got a hold of a pair of Brooks shorts that I had just run in and chewed upthe briefs inside. I nearly cried! I cut the rest of the briefs out but they were never the same.

    As for built-in bras – NEVER for running. Not enough support! Good for yoga, and now that I breast feed I practically live in nursing cami’s, layered under shirts. I can’t stand my nursing bras. Probably the main thing I am looking forward to after I am done nursing is wearing my Natori bras again.

  • rebecca @ blueberry smiles March 28, 2013, 2:14 pm

    Square pillows and yes to both underwear and bras in wkout clothes! You always have fun random debate topics!

  • Amanda K. March 28, 2013, 2:15 pm

    i totally totally agree about built-ins. i don’t need a TON of bra support, but a built-in bra is still never enough support for a run.
    i LOVE built-in undies. i ESPECIALLY like them in the winter when i can’t shower right after a run, that way i can just change quickly back into my non-running clothes (which are like, yoga pants. i’m a mom:) while i wait till i can shower. if i wasn’t running with built-ins, my undies are all wet.

  • joelle (on a pink typewriter) March 28, 2013, 2:17 pm

    Pillows as a square!

    I always run with the shorts that have undies, although I still wear my own undies underneath……. now I’m realizing that probably defeats their purpose.

    PS. I just had my first GOTR practice, and I have to thank YOU for first exposing me to the organization on your blog. I’d never heard about them before reading about your work with them… so thanks!

  • Emily @ The Swallow Flies March 28, 2013, 2:18 pm

    I hate, hate, hate, hate, hate built-in bras. The only ones I somewhat like are in the camis from Express, but I only use those (sans real bra) for lounging around those house or for throwing on under a zip-up for running quick (and comfortable!) errands.

  • Jill Will Run March 28, 2013, 2:23 pm

    Square pillow.
    Yes to built-in undies on shorts.
    No to built-in bras.

  • chelsey March 28, 2013, 2:25 pm

    Square – no horns!!! I’m a pillow fluffer too.

    And no undies. I’d rather wear my own – I always cut those out of running shorts.

  • N March 28, 2013, 2:31 pm

    Square pillows and no built in anything!

  • Jelena@ FabLifePhd March 28, 2013, 3:02 pm

    Square. but I am to lazy to make it, so I am happy if the pillow is not on the floor 🙂
    I think I got this habit from my mom, but underwear has to be made from cotton and washable at high temperatures. I wash my shorts at 30 celsius, but undies at 90, especially the ones in which I sweat.

  • Julie March 28, 2013, 3:11 pm

    1. Square.
    2. No built-ins! With bras, they don’t fit/support enough so I still need a sports bra. With shorts, I’d rather wear separate underwear and let the shorts make it through a few workouts between washing.

  • Joy March 28, 2013, 3:32 pm

    I actually don’t have any throw pillows around my apartment so I can’t weigh on that debate, but as for the clothing…I am with you. I would not buy a pair of running shorts without the built-in underwear (but hate built-in boy shorts). And I won’t buy a top with a built-in bra because they are never supportive enough (and I’m on the small side).

  • Laura March 28, 2013, 3:36 pm

    I’m like you Caitlin…I like horns on my pillows. Only we call it ‘the chop’ at our house. I’m always telling my husband…”you gotta do the chop! Like this see….CHOP!” He thinks its weird and funny. And I am pro-undies in my shorts too. 🙂

  • Rachel @ Eat, Learn, Discover! March 28, 2013, 3:52 pm

    Square pillows. Always.

    And LOVE the built in undies – most of the underwear I usually wear does NOT work well for running! As far as built in bras go, I have a love/hate them. They definitely squish me and hardly ever fit right, but I find with boobs my size in NEED the extra compression for running. If I wear a tank without a built in, sometimes I’ll wear two sports bras. I know it’s horrible to crush your breast tissue like that, but otherwise running is super uncomfortable.

  • Jen March 28, 2013, 4:16 pm

    My pillows are in whatever shape my big dome leaves them in when i get up haha otherwise i def need built in undies but hatttteee with a passion built in bras! They are never supportive enough alone but i feel way to mashed if i wear a bra with them.

  • Amy @ Healthy and Fit for Real March 28, 2013, 4:20 pm

    I disagree with you on both topics- square pillows and no underwear in shorts but love built in bras (plus a sports bra under). It weirds me out to have underwear in the shorts…

  • Sara @ fitcupcaker March 28, 2013, 4:32 pm

    Cornbread quiche- yum!! And ive never seen a horn pillow, interesting. I also have shorts with and without the undies, I dont think I prefer a way really :/

  • Katie March 28, 2013, 4:44 pm

    I’ve never heard of someone putting horns on their pillow before. 🙂

    I agree about built-I’m undies. My boyfriend bought me shorts for my birthday our first year together, and I returned them because they didn’t have built-in undies. Oops, lol!

    I also agree that built-in bras are super annoying. I always end up wearing another bra underneath anyways, so what’s the point?!

    • Laura March 29, 2013, 12:27 am

      I was thinking the same thing, and I’ve never seen it. Caitlin–where did you hear about this? What made you start doing it? I think the pillows look kind of cute, it’s just something completely different to me :).

  • Casey March 28, 2013, 4:57 pm

    I just have to say, I L.O.V.E. the color of your dining room. I wish I had my own dining room just so I can paint it that color!

    Also, I’m with you on the pillow horns. Actually, I’m less of a karate-chopper and more of a fluffily-arranged-to-look-cozy-and-like-you-should-sit-there. I don’t want people to be afraid of sitting because they’ll muss my pillows! 🙂

  • Kim March 28, 2013, 5:28 pm

    Pillow – Square. The horns make it look staged.

    Workout clothes – Undies in shorts/skirts, but not bras in tops. I need more support than what a built-in bra could provide.

  • Catherine March 28, 2013, 6:53 pm

    On the undies and bras question…I’m from the UK so we’d call them knickers 🙂 I’ve never even considered not wearing proper knickers under my running shorts. But after reading this post I think I should because normal underwear isn’t the comfiest when running. On the bra question – id probably wear a running bra as well as the build in bra for extra support.

    What we need is the option in all running gear to be able to take out (maybe with poppers or buttons) the bra of undies (knickers) so everyone’s needs are met.

    Catherine x

  • Mary March 28, 2013, 7:43 pm

    Funny… I love the built in bras IF they have real support. But I still wear undies even with the built in ones.

  • Babs March 28, 2013, 7:53 pm

    Definitely square pillows are the go. I like the built in undies on shorts, but I still wear my own undies too (I didn’t know they were replacing your undies). I don’t like built in bras.

  • Miranda @ Miranda Runs March 28, 2013, 8:32 pm

    Pillows: square! But I always offset the location of the pillow on the chair so it’s on the side of the seat.
    Built in undies: Depends on the quality!
    Built in bra: Only if it’s big enough!

  • BroccoliHut March 28, 2013, 8:51 pm

    Totally agree on the built-in underwear question. Built-in bras are never supportive enough–even for me who is quite small-chested! So I don’t really get the point of them. Just an annoyance, if you ask me.
    As for the built-in undies, I used to hate them for some unknown reason. Now I like having them, if for nothing else just so I can have an extra layer of coverage for that area when I’m doing sit-ups at the gym!

  • Amber K March 28, 2013, 9:01 pm

    Maybe I’m crazy but that dent thing looks so weird to me! MY OCD side is mentally trying to neaten it out. LOL

    I hate built in bras/underwear. I will cut them out! They don’t fit properly and the thought of going without my own underwear/bra underneath skeeves me out.

  • Jenn March 28, 2013, 10:04 pm

    “Squares” all the way!
    Shorts HAVE to have built in undies. I wouldn’t buy a pair of shorts to work out in without them.
    Tops–well, I’m not so endowed as you, so built in works fine for me:)

  • Mel March 28, 2013, 10:16 pm

    I can’t believe all these people like square pillows! I ALWAYS chop and I feel like it makes it
    Look so much better!!! I’m with you!

  • Abby March 28, 2013, 10:37 pm

    I leave the pillows square, never would have thought to karate chop them haha. I can’t stand built in bras! They’re never supportive enough so then I end up doubling up and being super uncomfortable. As for built in underwear, I feel like I would just end up doubling up on those too haha.

  • Heidi March 29, 2013, 1:34 am

    Love, love, love built in undies! Hate, hate HATE those built in boy leg ones though, so uncomfortable and hot – just awful. Not a fan of the built in bra either. Cushions? Who cares!!!

  • Sara @my less serious life March 29, 2013, 6:35 am

    square, undies in running shorts, no bras in tops!

  • heather March 29, 2013, 9:20 am

    If the pillows actually make it to the couch or chair, I don’t care if they are square, horned, or diamond. I call it a win! 🙂
    I have never purchased running shorts. They scare me. They look reeeeeaaaallly short and flimsy.
    I would love to have tops with built in sports bras that worked. I am a proud member of the BTC and usually wind up doubling up to get the coverage I want without the bounce.

  • Laura Z March 29, 2013, 9:30 am

    My six cents.

    2Pillows look better square.
    4I like the built in underwear in the shorts but don’t have to have them.
    6I DO NOT like the built in bras. They don’t fit me and DO NOT provide enough support.

  • Ashley March 29, 2013, 12:22 pm

    I love your dining room SO much. I just pinned it for future reference. Thanks 🙂

  • Lauren @ Breathe & Nourish March 29, 2013, 1:02 pm

    Pillows: squares, def. Sorry Caitlin!
    Shorts: Eh, I could take or leave the built in undies. I guess it does help me feel less exposed though when I bend over!
    Bras: Ohmygoodness, stop trying to build in bras for me, people! They never fit me or support me well! I always end up having to wear a real jog bra under them and then that just ends up looking funny. Sigh.

  • Katie March 29, 2013, 1:45 pm

    mmmh..breakfast looks delicious :)..

    pillows: square all the way
    built-in bras: hate ’em
    built-in undies: love, but not a must!

  • Lindsay @ health foragers March 29, 2013, 2:55 pm

    I totally agree. The bras are not supportive at all and the underwear is amazing.

  • Cassie March 29, 2013, 5:18 pm

    Built-in bras I like, because if I’m just doing yoga or something, I can wear just a tank with a built-in. Or I’ll wear a tight one (so the bra is supportive enough) for layering.

    I H-A-T-E built-in undies. They’re disgusting. I would never run or work out without real underwear on. Plus, built-ins are extremely wasteful. Consignment and thrift shops cannot sell used shorts with built-in undies, because they amount to selling used underwear, which is illegal, at least in my state. So, selling shorts with built-in undies increases a company’s carbon footprint, because those shorts must be thrown away instead of being bought by another person who could still use them. And did I mention they’re disgusting?

    • Cassie March 29, 2013, 5:24 pm

      I feel like there are a significant number of female runners who don’t buy traditional running shorts because they aren’t designed for real women. Most women will never have a thigh gap, because that depends on how their hips are shaped. Traditional running shorts ride up like crazy. Since it’s not exactly fun to yank out a front-wedgie in public (or in private!), I can’t buy most shorts sold by Brooks. It’d be nice to be able to buy colorful shorts, but I’d rather not flash everyone on my route.

  • AmandaonMaui March 29, 2013, 6:31 pm

    Square, and no built in underwear. I might do a built in bra though because I hate wearing a separate bra.

  • Tricia March 30, 2013, 1:53 am

    I keep my pillows squared but off to the side. And no built ins. I just don’t feel covered/supported enough!

  • Erin @ The Elliptical Chronicles April 1, 2013, 9:44 pm

    I’m indifferent about the pillow debate, but I suppose I think the pillow with horns makes the chair look more inviting and sit-able 🙂

    As for workout clothes – I love built-in underwear in my workout shorts (b/c it somehow leads to less wedgies for me), but I hate built-in bras b/c they never fit me either (they’re always too small, which forces me to get a larger size top and then it’s too loose and uncomfortable everywhere else)

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