fleece

Even though the Chicago Marathon was marred by scorching temperatures, I am still thinking about layering for cooler weather. You want extra layers that will keep you warm without adding unnecessary bulk to your frame.

Check out the Ella Zip Neck from Isis. Don't they just scream fall? I love the gorgeous and soothing colors this fleece pullover comes in.

Since it's designed by Isis, you know that it's made to fit a woman's body and her active lifestyle. The 9" zipper can be pulled all the way up to keep your neck and chest warm, and it can be pulled down to cool you off. It's made of microfleece, so it's warm but not too bulky. It can be easily tied around your waist or stuffed in a pack to save when you need it.

This fleece is soft and cozy enough to wear alone, but can also be layered over a tank top or baselayer. Once winter comes, you can also use it as an extra layer under your coat. I love the feminine contoured fit and it's only $65. Order it from Isis.

September is here and whether you like it or not, the weather is starting to cool off. I'm a little sad that warm weather is dwindling away, but I am psyched to spend more time outside. The cooler weather of autumn makes exercising outside much more pleasant and safe, since you don't have to worry as much about overheating. You do need to wear extra layers though.

Every outdoorswoman needs to have a great fleece. I love this one from Patagonia - the Lightweight R4 Jacketa, because it's simple yet practical.

It's not too big and bulky, so it won't get in the way when you move. Plus the best part is that this fleece is windproof, so you'll stay extra warm. I also like the fact that the shoulders are seamless, so if you are wearing a backpack, the seams won't dig into you. Pockets are a necessity and this jacket has three - 2 hand pockets, and 1 on your chest.

I know that $200 may seem kind of pricey, but remember that even though this jacket is lightweight, it'll still keep you as warm as thicker fleeces because it's windproof. Plus it's a great jacket to layer underneath a hardshell or down jacket for the winter. It's also 100% recyclable through the Common Threads Recycling Program. Order it from Patagonia in Aquatic Blue, Poppy Fields (both shown), Black, and Safety Green.

Tis' the season for layering and April is all about being green too (maybe you didn't hear that April 22nd is Earth Day).

This Patagonia Synchilla Vest ($70.00) seems to be the perfect layering workout piece this spring. The vest provides year-round core warmth without all the bulk. What's more? It's made from 100 percent recycled double-faced polyester fleece and there just happens to be one in meadow green...I'm just saying. I'm thinking this would be a great addition to your weekend hike or that chilly early AM run. Buy it from Patagonia.com.

This vest, along with their Common Threads Garment Recycling program provides yet another reason to love Patagonia. Great company.

During the winter months, I cannot survive without my collection of cozy fleece jackets. Whether it's traveling to the mountains to ski or running out for a weeknight dinner, a fleece jacket is the best thing to throw on. Fleece jackets are also great gifts for the holidays as one can never have too many. Below are some of my favorites.

When it comes to fleece gear, it's hard to beat Patagonia. This Retro-X jacket looks so cozy, I can imagine not ever wanting to take it off. Available here for $175.

This Denali Fleece jacket from North Face is about as classic as you can get. I got one of these my freshman year of college and have not stopped wearing it since. Available here for $165.

One more, less expensive option, so read more