I like to run. I just don’t LOVE it. Can you blame me? I don’t like the hurt or the tough (because I’m a weenie), but I do love the accomplishment, the strength, the cardio and the fun of creating a running costume. In fact, that’s the whole reason I do long races…. for the costumes. Being a costume designer has its perks… like being able to create full-on Vanelope and Wreck-It Ralph running costumes for Chase and I in the 2014 Princess Half Marathon down at Walt Disney World. It was that first costume that led me to create painted running sleeves for my costume, and I found a fool proof, sweat and washing machine proof way to get color onto the sleeves without damaging the performance.
Now, I’m itching to create another costume, and while Baby #2 may keep me from training for a super-long distance race, I’m still mulling over my next costume idea and maybe some fancy, fun gear for my next 5k. I snagged a pair of Zensah women’s white running sleeves (thanks, Zensah; ya’ll have the best stuff!!) and found some more Disney inspiration to create Hercules’ Pegasus inspired designs. One of the film’s songs, “I can go the Distance” is an absolute training mantra for me. It’s on my playlist, it’s something I focus on, and heck, the tune is pretty catchy. Listen hard while I’m running past your house and you just might hear me belting out the melody like someone in their car at a red light… full on.
Just like my first tried and true method, I slipped my sleeve over a Lysol spray can and started to paint. I taped off sections I didn’t want painted with masking tape (painters tape, duct or gaff tape work well, too) and slathered up my brush. The ridges in the sleeve will prove difficult for detailed lines or lettering, and the sleeve (due to it’s wicking nature) sucks up paint, so be patient and have a plan. My Grecian key is a little wonky, but I’m happy with it.
For the center front of the running sleeves, I wanted to bring a little of Hercules himself into the fold. I traced a circle and detailed the Mt. Olympus medallion that Hercules wears. This was a fun way to add more color to the blue/white scheme and give the sleeves a little focus.
So what do you think? Would you add this magnificent, bird-brained sidekick to your costume list? I’m going to have a lot of fun adding wings and a mane to this one!
I loved Into the Woods recently so I might kick it old school style with a little red riding hood or Cinderella costume.
I think I would do something around Belle
a perfect princess to emulate! Would you carry a rose?
Awesome running outfit idea! And it looks like it was fairly easy to paint on the sleeves. I can’t wait to see your full outfit!
Thanks, man! It was fairly easy to apply the paint, you just have to have a plan and know what you want to do!
These are so cute! The longest (and only) race I’ve ever done was a 5k. I would love to work up to running a half after my second baby gets here. 🙂
same here! I’m eager to run another half, but know I need to get past infant-hood and train again.
I’m a traditionalist. I’d probably go with something Mickey Mouse inspired!
A classic choice. You’d look good in a red dress with polka dots 😉
I’m not a runner, but I do walk fast. 🙂 These running sleeves are super cute.
I love the walking breaks. It’s much needed! Thank you for the compliment!
I love the sleeves! Very cute design. I’d wear them if this was the theme I was going for.
Thanks! The best part of the white sleeves is that you can make them into anything you want!
Very unique and cute!
Would do something Ariel inspired
I love doing Ariel – it’s a challenge, but recognizable!
These are so cute. I always like seeing all the fun runner’s costumes.
Thanks! It’s definitely my favorite part of a race.
I would make a fun mouse ears print on them. We love Mickey and Minnie!!
Mickey and Minnie are always a perfect choice! Classic!