I'm a Former Lululemon Employee—These Are 15 'We Made Too Much' Finds I'm Shopping for Fourth of July From $29

Travel + Leisure

2 days ago

Fourth of July is one of my favorite days of the year. But that doesn't mean you'll find me dropping big bucks at a fireworks stand in triple-digit temps this weekend. Instead, I'll be indoors—AC on full blast—upgrading my travel wardrobe at Lululemon. Before I became a travel writer, I was a store educator for Lululemon, so I'm very familiar with the brand's best-sellers.
Just as importantly, I know firsthand that early July is a great time to stock up on essentials I can wear throughout the warmer months, and more often than not, the rest of the year, too. (Besides, isn't that the whole point of spring cleaning to make room for summer shopping? That's how it works in my house, at least.)
If you, too, want to invest in some new looks this holiday weekend, below are 15 pieces I'm currently eyeing from Lululemon's secret 'We Made Too Much' section, which has been dubbed 'Summer Scores' due to the number of warm weather finds like sweat-wicking shorts for $39 or an ultra-soft tank dress for under $100.
'Timeless' is how I sum up this curve-hugging dress made of fabric so soft you'll swear it needs to be dry cleaned, even though it's machine washable. The ribbed texture is noticeable, but not too thick, and the contouring on the back and front could not be more flattering. Indeed, the Ribbed Softstreme Slim-Fit Tank Dress is dressy enough to wear to church or dinner, comfy enough to wear in coach, and practical enough to pair with some white sneakers for a full day of sightseeing. Shoppers say it's 'perfect' for travel and appreciate that it doesn't wrinkle.
I first saw these new joggers a few weeks ago at the Lululemon pop-up shop in Jackson, Wyoming, where they take up prime real estate on a rack near the front door. Perforated for maximum airflow, they're a lightweight summer-friendly take on the traditional Adapted State High-rise Jogger (which has nearly 1,400 five-star ratings). The built-in liner keeps these pants from being see-through, and they have zippered pockets and bottom cuffs you can unzip if you want a different breezier look.
Lululemon's Hotty Hot shorts have been around for years, and with nearly 3,400 five-star ratings, it's not hard to see why. Personally, I'm loving the new summer colorways, including Raspberry Coulis, Chilled Grape, and Raceway Green. Choose from two lengths: 2.5-inch and 4-inch (although the latter one is running low on stock). Both are made of 100-percent recycled polyester and feature mesh panels at the bottom for added breathability. I don't really use the liner's secret stash pocket, but I always keep a lip balm in the zippered pocket in the back. 'These are so lightweight and are great for traveling and adventures around the islands,' reads one five-star review left by a shopper who lives in Hawaii.
One of Lululemon's most popular items, despite its relatively low price point, is the Everywhere Belt Bag 1L, which has racked up an incredible 24,000+ five-star ratings. I already own this best-selling bag in black, and it's served me well on my travels to all seven continents. Now that summer is here and my serotonin levels are the highest they've been all year, I'm stoked to stock up on the Lululemon belt bag in more playful colors such as Crater Blue, Lavender Lux, and Pink Dragonfruit. Don't get me wrong, I'll still wear dark hues as I often tend to do—I'll just pair my outfits with this eye-catching, and super practical, accessory.
Wearing sweat-proof clothes that don't look like athletic wear on your next hot, humid vacation will be a trick you'll use over and over again. This Swiftly Tech Cropped Short-sleeve Shirt comes in tons of neutrals, bright hues, and striped patterns so you can pair it with almost anything in your suitcase. The flat seams are designed to avoid chafing, which is a plus if you're planning on sweating on an all-day walking tour or while hitting the hotel gym. Made for running, this shirt is a durable number you can reach for in almost any situation.
Most of my leggings and pants are solid colors, so I'm surprised that I'm so drawn to these retro-inspired pants with contrasting color blocking. I think I like the color blocking so much because of the placement. The panels are down the sides and at the waist, elongating your legs and creating a very flattering silhouette, especially if you pair them with the matching halter top. 'I feel very 'va va voom' in this outfit,' reads one five-star review left by a shopper who owns both pieces. And because these pants are made of Lululemon's signature buttery-smooth Nulu fabric, I know they're even soft enough to sleep in.
Perhaps Lululemon's most popular non-racerback tank, this lightly supportive top is so beloved by shoppers that it has more than 4,800 five-star ratings. I bought my first one three years ago at a Lululemon outlet store in Sydney, Australia, and I'd be lying if I said it wasn't a highlight of the two-week trip! Choose from more than 30 colors, and rest assured that this tank is easy to pair with wide-leg pants, high-rise leggings, workout shorts, and skirts. More importantly, it's so soft and weightless you'll forget you're wearing it (until you get compliments). 'Wore this to travel starting at 7 am and didn't take it off till midnight. It never got too tight or too hot, even after two flights and a 2-hour car ride,' wrote one satisfied shopper.
Ever since stadiums started requiring clear bags, I've kind of become obsessed with the look. That's why I love this see-through mesh tote, where not even my smallest lip gloss can get lost. That said, besides the roomy main compartment, this bag has an array of pockets in assorted sizes. The exterior drop-in pockets keep larger items accessible, while the smaller interior pocket keeps valuables safe. Personally, I'd use it as a beach bag since it's so breathable, and I don't need to worry about putting wet items in it.
I'm normally not a fan of skirts, but I make an exception for this Align High-rise Skirt. Why? It's so soft and features a built-in 3-inch shorts liner. The liner even has drop-in pockets, so I can store my keys and a credit card if I want to go sans bag. Choose from nine colors and two lengths: 13-inch and 15-inch, and don't plan on needing to return it because it boasts nearly 1,000 five-star ratings. One five-star review titled 'I wish I could afford to buy every color!' reads: 'I've tried other more affordable athletic skirts and this one is worth the money for sure.'
The Lululemon Align High-neck Dress, definitely has a sportier look, but it's still plenty versatile, especially in these neutral white and black hues. And like every piece in the Align Collection, this wardrobe workhorse is made of super soft fabric with four-way stretch. Yes, it's short, but it features built-in shorts, complete with a game-changing open back waistband, so you can go to the bathroom without having to completely undress. Top-wise, I love the high neckline and built-in shelf bra.
The cheery pink (Raspberry Coulis) color was the first thing that caught my eye about these shorts. Then I noticed the unique grid texture. While they almost look too pretty to hike in, between the abrasion-resistant fabric that repels water and the strategically placed pockets, these high-rise shorts are clearly designed for tackling the trails. However, I can see myself sporting them on pavement-pounding sightseeing days, too.
Don't try if you're not prepared to buy, because the Women's Restfeel Slide will immediately win you over the second you slide into them. These slides, which have more than 2,500 five-star ratings, are an undeniable treat for your feet, especially in hot weather. Unlike other slides, they feature dual-density cushioning, so you have enough support to comfortably cover a lot of ground. 'I wear them in the house as slippers, I wear them as sandals, and I've even worn them with dresses,' wrote one shopper who describes themself as having major foot problems.
Lululemon has made dozens, if not hundreds, of skirts over the years, but I don't know any as flattering as the Nulu Slim-fit High-rise Skirt. Best of all, it's 'buttery soft' and offers plenty of stretch, so you feel comfortable, not confined. There's even a slit in the back, so you have a greater range of motion, and the waistband has a secret stash pocket for your credit card, I.D., or keys. Shoppers say it's easy to dress up or dress down, and they praise its packability.
This classic cotton twill hat might be the reason I break up with my dermatologist soon. (Just kidding: Routine checkups are important.) Yes, the star flower embroidery print (which comes in two colors) is cute. But I also love that this stylish hat has more technical features, such as a lining that has all the things Lululemon is famous for: four-way stretch, ultra sweat-wicking properties, and a quick-drying material for sweaty or rainy days. Bring on the sun and bad hair days—I'm ready.
I've never touched a cloud, but if it feels anything like Lululemon's heavenly Like a Cloud Bra (which I've had for three years and plan on wearing to smithereens), sign me up! Currently, it's available for $49 in three gorgeous colors, all from the pink family. Even if you're not a fan of the colors, it's still worth buying. I would wear this in a hideous, drab hue with bleach spots if I had to—it's simply that comfortable. But don't just take it from me; the Like a Cloud Bra has more than 1,300 five-star ratings. 'I purchased this for vacation and fell in love with it immediately,' wrote one shopper who liked it so much that it's now their 'normal everyday bra.'
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