Let’s face it, Colors set the tone and rule the mood of the seasons and our wardrobes! It’s that all important factor that can influence our attitude and persona through our clothing and style, not to mention the healing properties of colors and their use in color healing. Even though we’ve still got a drabby winter to go,  we’re showing you the light at the end of the tunnel with this sneak preview into the colors you might be seeing a lot of in the Spring of 2011.

The forecast of the color trends for the new year reveals a sobriety in most of the shades the season, unlike previous the brighter and bolder color trends of Spring/Summer 2010. There are however a few splashes of intense shades livening up the sombre palette, like passionate pinks and the loud orange. We’ve complied a full spectrum of colors for Spring/Summer 2011 according to what all the fashion color experts in the business are saying. Sit back and envision your wardrobe for next year….

Aqueous
A color scheme that comes as no surprise as it brings with it fond memories of a sun, sand and beach with its aqua tones. The nautical shades bring with it an optimism of new beginnings. Worn in the form of sheers and light airy fabrics this trend is going to bring let the light breeze into your life.  In color healing, blue is believed to have healing properties include cooling of inflammations, fever, anti-stress and more; Read more about the healing properties of this color and what it says about you here.

Passionate Pinks
From rich Bordeaux, fuchsias, poinsettia to the lightest pinks, these shades full of passion will be in season come Spring. Paired with neutral and beige overtones these popping colors will brighten up those days with a flirty feminine flare! Pinks that are a hue from red brings it’s wearer warmth, high energy, vitality, power and stimulation. Read more about the healing properties of this color and what it says about you here.

Sobriety
Subtle and elegant shades influenced by nature, purity and simplicity are the colors of this direction coined ‘Divinity’ by some. The subdued colors actually come across luxuriant, classy with a natural feel when teamed with lush fabrics. They radiate a glowing appearance meant to match with a radiant Summer tan. These earthy shades are also what keep us rooted to the ground and can be used to stimulate a basic sense of security and stability. Read more about the healing properties of these colors and what they say about you here.

Loud Orange
Neiman Marcus proclaims its “orange coral”; we call it - Loud, Bold and Out There! The Must have color this season, no wardrobe with be complete without it. Orange is not a color most women gravitate towards wearing but this shade is like no other and you won’t be saying no! Mark my words you’ll see it disappearing off the racks faster than you can blink. Another plus to this bright hue is that it’s an energy color, bearing a lot of healing properties. Click here to read more about it’s properties and the statement it makes about you!

Not only will you be in style with these colors in your closet, but you’ll also benefit from the healing properties they’ll bring in your life. To learn more about Colors and their healing touch, read our past posts on the subject:

• Color Healing – The Power of Color In Our Lives
• The Healing Properties Of Colors And What They Say About You
• The Healing Properties Of Colors And What They Say About You -2
• Colors and You: Color Symbolism and Effects of Color in Our Lives
• Heal Yourself Through Color

This article is brought to you by YogacaraShop.com – your source for special Yoga Apparel, yoga inspired clothing, comfort clothing clothing designed according to the Colors of the Chakras and the best trendy, high quality and comfortable  Fitness Apparel do visit YogacaraShop.com

Experience the color in your every day life with stylish casual wear at Yogacarashop.com

Blue

Blue is helpful in cooling, calming, reconstructing and protecting. It healing properties include cooling of inflammations, fever, high blood pressure, stops bleeding, relieves headaches, calms strong emotions like anger, aggression or hysteria, brings tranquility, anti-itching and anti-stress. Linked to the throat chakra (Vishuddha) blue influences expression and communication, through speech.

What the hue says about you-
Love it- Preference for blue displays a cool and soothing personality and is associated with a dreamy or magical nature. People that keep a certain distance, but give calm and practical help, are faithful and loyal, have a sense for order, logic and rational thinking tend to choose this color. Dark blue is more severe and can be melancholic. Blue is also the color of truth.

Hate it- A person who dislikes blue, may be very disciplined, strong career worker, with an aversion of commentary or restriction. He may have charted out a clear direction for his life and wants to follow that to the ‘T’ .

Violet/Purple

Purple is a sensitive, intuitive and spiritual color. It enhances receptivity and introspection of mind. They promote divine growth, awareness and expands divine understanding. It is good for mental and nervous problems. Violet is said to calm melancholy, hysteria, delusions and alcohol addiction and bring spiritual insights and renewal. It can even be used to slow down an over-active heart.

What the hue says about you-
Love it- Soft, sensitive people with tend to have an affinity to purple. The shades represent meditation, contemplation, mysticism, spirituality and religion power. People associated with the color are deeply mysterious, religious and reserved.

Hate it- A person who has an aversion for violet / purple may have very serious attitude towards life and may find it difficult to give dreams, fantasies, vague fears or memories a place in it. They may have tendency to reject everything he regards as unnatural or unrealistic.

Brown

Brown is the color of basic security and stability. It’s what keeps us rooted to the ground. It prevents fear and stress and tunes you in to nature. Brown also projects a mood of despair and despondency but most of all, loss.

What the hue says about you-
Love it- Brown is an earthly color for practical people with a preference for nature, tribal and primitive things with solidity and simplicity. Brown can be warm and cozy but also depressing. Brown is the color of stable people and loyal friends.

Hate it- A person who has an aversion to brown may feel an aversion against normal, boring, trivial life; may not feel connected with his roots (home-land, family, etc); may experience instability in health and attitude.

White

White is the perfect color for it is a combination of all colors, in perfect balance and harmony. It is the color of the awakened Spirit, the light of perfection, all that is pure, the light of the Cosmic Consciousness, the Divine Light. White light raises the vibration of one’s consciousness and the body, bringing harmony in all aspects of one’s life.

What the hue says about you-
Love it- White signifies innocence, purity, virginity, cleanliness, freshness, simplicity, nothingness, oneness and completion, truth. In certain cultures though white is the color of death and mourning.

Hate it- A person who has an aversion to white color is foremost or solely interested in ‘realistic’ and tangible things, not in illusions or things that are beyond seeing or understanding. They tend to know and accepts the own imperfection and do not wish to achieve perfection.

Black

Just as white as always symbolizes the positive, black has always accentuated the negative, reflecting an unhappy state of mind, sorrow or ill omen.

What the hue says about you-
Love it- Preference for black symbolizes seriousness, darkness, depression, death, mourning, mystery, secrecy, occultism, a standing apart from or revolting against triviality, provocation, underground, underworld, things that have to remain hidden, nothingness as the great source of all creation, the need to keep your energy with you. Black is a color for extremes, everything and nothing. People who foremost trust themselves associate themselves with this strong color.

Hate it- A person who has an aversion to black may have fear for the unknown, or fear for the abuse of power. Desires to become free from all kinds of dependency, blockages, hindrances; to throw off shackles.

References: http://www.deeptrancenow.com,
http://health.learninginfo.org/chromotherapy.htm
http://altered-states.net/barry/newsletter178/index.htm

ALL the clothes featured in this article are available at YogacaraShop.com- An online store for special Yoga Apparel, yoga inspired clothing, comfort clothing clothing designed according to the Colors of the Chakras and the best trendy, high quality and comfortable  Fitness Apparel do visit YogacaraShop.com

In our last post we saw how color plays a part in setting up a particular mood or state of mind and can be used to heal physical and mental ailments. Just as the proportions of the colors within sunlight that changes according to the season can cause our body to function differently and influence our moods (For eg- in summer we are full of energy and life and very active, while in the winter months we feel sluggish, depressed and inactive) we can purposely manipulate our body into receiving a balance of this light by wearing different colors and introducing them more in our day to day life through our surroundings. Here’s a look at the different colors and how they can affect us and help stimulate our chakras for an all round balance.

A preference or aversion to certain colors can also say a lot about your personality and temperament, so see what your hues are saying about you…

Red

Wearing red increases physical energy and can be used if you are feeling tired. Red said to correspond at the same frequency of the Root chakra (Muladhara) located at the base of the spine, linked to the functioning of the adrenal glands which releases adrenalin. Red therefore brings warmth, high energy, vitality, power and stimulation which is good to battle fatigue, colds, chilly and passive people. It is also said to increase sexual desire and activity and stimulate ovulation and menstruation.

What the hue says about you-
Love it- Red strengthens one’s ability to be more courageous in life. People who prefer red are known to be passionate lovers, high energy, impulsive, action- oriented, assertive and sometimes aggressive. They don’t lack courage, strength and power, adventure or danger in their lives. They are temperamental and ambitious people with a need for personal freedom who aren’t afraid to take risks.

Hate it- A person who has an aversion to red may be over-active, too impulsive, hot-tempered, aggressive and egocentric, or have difficulties with people with such characteristics. It can also symbolize deeply hidden fears and rejection of his own assertiveness.

Orange

Yet another energy color, bearing a lot of healing properties. It’s warm nurturing, non-constricting, cheerful and comforting. Linked to the Sacral chakra (Swadhisthana) near the lower abdomen, it affects and stimulates the lungs, the respiration and digestion. It is said to be able to increases the activity of the thyroid, relieve muscle cramps and spasms as well as increase the amount of a mothers milk. On other levels, orange is the color of creativity as it stimulates creative thinking, enthusiasm and helps assimilate new ideas.

What the hue says about you-
Love it- People who prefer orange tend to be warm, comforting, dynamic and sociable people. It is also associated with independent people who dedicate themselves to whatever they do.

Hate it- person who has an aversion to orange may have suppressed sexual feelings or other difficulties with sensual enjoyment of life. The attitude can also be over-sensual, indulgent, or too materialistic.

Yellow

Yellow is said to be mentally stimulating. It strengthens the nervous system and the mind. Helps cure nervous disorders or nerve related ailments. Yellow can also be used for conditions of the stomach, liver, and intestines as it is associated with the Solar Plexis Chakra (Manipura) located in the stomach area. It is also good for balancing an overly active mind.

What the hue says about you-
Love it- Yellow is the color of cheerful, vibrant, curious and progressive personalities. People who like yellow usually have a tendency for writing and speaking.they love contact through traveling and communication, learning and practical knowledge.
Hate it- Aversion to yellow indicate persons who may be emotionally disappointed and bitter. They may have a tendency to rationalize feelings, or to avoid the depth of life by often changing relationships, many superficial relationships and/or constant changing activities.

Green

Always associated with nature and the earth, green possess a soothing influence upon both mind and body. It helps to relax the mind, emotions and physical body. Green provides balance and stimulates the natural magnetic healing abilities latent in all of Humanity and Animals.The ancient Egyptians and Chinese used green as the primary color of healing and can be used for just about any condition in need of healing. Linked with the heart chakra, green affects blood pressure and all conditions of the heart.

What the hue says about you-
Love it- A preference for green shows peace, rest, hope, comfort and nurturing, calmness and harmony. People who associate themselves with green often show a keen interest in nature, plants, fellowmen, children and animals, health and healing, natural and plain life. They tend to longing for a safe home and family-life and dislike conflicts.

Hate it- A person who has an aversion to green may be more interested in independence and self-development than in a warm family-life. They may prefer to keep a certain distance in relationships.

Continued in- The Healing Properties Of Colors And What They Say About You -2

References: http://www.deeptrancenow.com,
http://health.learninginfo.org/chromotherapy.htm
http://altered-states.net/barry/newsletter178/index.htm

ALL the clothes featured in this article are available at YogacaraShop.com-an online store – your source for special Yoga Apparel, yoga inspired clothing, comfort clothing clothing designed according to the Colors of the Chakras and the best trendy, high quality and comfortable  Fitness Apparel do visit YogacaraShop.com

Yes, fitness apparel or workout wear is supposed to be comfortable, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look stylish and fashion forward at the same time. If you believe the gym is the one place you can literally roll out of bed, throw on some old shorts or baggy old sweats and a t-shirt and show up without anyone batting an eye, think again! While the gym is primarily a place for exercising and working out, it’s also a prime spot for people watching and meeting new people for making friends. Your choice of comfort clothing can say a lot about you and be a way to make a statement about yourself, so you really don’t want to be sending out the wrong message. So even at the gym and the simplest of clothing, there some basic fashion rules in order to work it out right!

Here’s a look at some Tips on What Works and What Doesn’t in Fitness Fashion-

• Don’t over do it. You don’t want to be that woman decked out in shiny tights, bright leg warmers, the wrist sweat bands and headbands and every workout accessory known to man. Keep it simple, plain and modern, you don’t want to send out the ‘I’m stuck in the 80′s’ vibe.
• Don’t under do it either. If you’re one of those lucky people with the perfect abs and well toned body, I know you’re dying to show it off. But there is such a thing as exposing too much skin. Most of the your other exercisers will agree that while you may look great and be proud of yourself, it’s not nice to rub it in everyone’s faces.
• Underwear…Don’t exercise in it and don’t exercise without it. What I mean by that is, exercising in only your boxer shorts, bras or anything else that looks like underwear should be avoided at all costs. Seeing people stretch in their tighty whiteys is unpleasant for everyone around you. On the other hand, for the sake of comfort don’t skimp out on wearing any underwear at all under those baggy shorts or a bra under that tank top.The last thing you want is to give other gym-goers an eye-full of something they may wish they hadn’t gotten.
• Wear the appropriate innerwear. On the subject of under garments, it’s just as important to wear the right kind, especially for women. Regular bra during workouts more often than not, don’t offer enough support which can be both uncomfortable for you and unsightly for others (or draw too much attention, if you know what I mean!). Look into and sports bra or an exercise bra for extra support.
• Flip-Flops and Jeans are a No-No. Wearing non-athletic shoes while working our isn’t just a fashion faux pas, it’s also dangerous and could lead to injury if using the treadmill or other exercise machines. The shoes you wear for exercise are probably the most important part of your workout wardrobe, the provide padding and work as shock absorbers, the also provide the much needed grip for many exercises, so invest in a separate pair of gym sport shoes especially for working out. Jeans are just not appropriate exercise wear, they don’t have near as much stretch as you require to be comfortable and allow you the freedom of moment. Wear appropriate athletic clothes when working out.
• Wear comfortable but not worn out. It’s ok to sweat, get a little stinky and dirty when working out, that’s shows you’re actually working out, but don’t come to the gym in clothes that already emanate a disturbing stench or bear suspicious stains. And similarly wearing clothes with giant holes or that are so worn they don’t look like they’ll tear any second should definitely be avoided. If you insist on wearing that favorite old t-shirt of yours past it’s expiry date, at least make sure it’s clean and presentable, if not save it for when your not out in public.

*Image credits: yogacarashop.com (Bright White capri pants with contrast stitching), photos by YoGeek Mami and lululemon athletica on flickr

Sure everybody would like to adhere to the latest trends by updating their wardrobes each season but a closet overhaul is hardly practical. Petite or plus sized, invest in these ten true wardrobe classics and you won’t have to – basic, versatile and timeless pieces that are workable with all the rest of your closet all year round. The good news is you probably already own most of these items. Choose quality and a great fit with these must haves and you can never go wrong on any occasion or be stuck with ‘nothing to wear’. The top ten wardrobe essentials are

A white shirt
This clean and crisp white button down working man’s staple in now a must have in every woman’s wardrobe. Smart and sassy, dressed up or dressed down, the basic Oxford is available in many styles now, tailored to a woman’s body and rather contemporary. Create interest by rolling up the sleeves, or pairing it with a bold scarf.

Pencil skirt
Pencil skirts are on point every season because their classic desirability keeps them coming back. They’re as flirty as they are businesslike, so stick to slimmer shapes that are so feminine and chic.

Dark jeans
Flattering as anything, a good pair of dark jeans are an essential. High waisted or low rise, straight fit or wide legged, pick a style that suits you and you feel best in.

Stylish sportswear
These days fitness and yoga wear is cooler, colourful, functional, versatile, and dare I say it, very fashionable and in no way restricted to the gym or studio. Shop for the right fitness apparel and look chic when you hit the streets even before and after.

Little Black Dress
Who can do without the fail-safe LBD, the sassiest must have of them all. Knee length or above with bare legs or sheer tights. The key is to accesorize yours differently and it will come up trumps every time.

Classic pumps
Black or nude, these hot heeled numbers are so versatile, you can pair them with all your dresses and trousers. A 2.5 inch heel will always be in vogue.

Cardigan
Light, lovely and luxurious, the cardigan can be worn out and indoors, and add a layer for warmth, color and texture without overpowering an outfit. Invest in a neutral color or one you love to wear in cashmere or a wool cotton blend.

24 hour handbag
Every woman needs a handbag that she can take from day to night. Sleek, sturdy and shapely, it can be a basic beige leather box bag or a bold statement bag to up the ante and break away from the boring.

Good basics
Don’t scrimp on good bras and underwear just because they’re not on show. If they can give you the right support and shape, your outfit can look much better on you. Bulgeless and seamless, the right bra and underwear can make you look polished in even a t-shirt and leggings and make you feel sexy.

Black trousers
Black is flattering on all figures and goes with everything. Black trousers are a staple, boardroom or bar, and can be teamed with anything from a blazer to a ruffled blouse.

Photo credits: Pictures by liss_mcbovzla, Yogacara, LollyKnit, Coutorture,

With temperatures and hemlines raising fast with the approaching summer, another aspect of fashion you need to consider is fabric choice. Here’s a look at the top fabrics for this season-

Natural Fabrics – Cotton, Linen and Silk
Cool summery natural fabrics such as cotton, linen and silk lend that fresh feel on those hot days will be in the forefront this season. Linen, often misunderstood cos of it’s label as a bedding and furnishing material, is on of the most sophisticated and durable clothing fabric out there. Whether worn casually in the form of a white linen dress or linen shorts or formally like a well cut suit, linen possess an “exclusive look” other materials cannot deliver. This natural moisture-licking fabric is a must have in your wardrobe this summer.

For your comfort clothing of the season, there no other way to go but cotton! This cool, soft and breathable fabric does have a tendency to wrinkle a bit, but don’t let that stop you. Available in different blends that do not need to be ironed the cotton will ultimately keep you cool.

Shiny and Rich – Chiffon and Satins
Along with the au natural fabrics this Spring Summer will be feminine, soft, fluid and slippery. Shiny and rich materials like chiffon, satins, taffeta and silks are will make a feature in the more trendy evening wear lending a chic and sophisticated feel to the night.Chiffon brings to the table a flowy feminine look to dresses and tunic tops.

Silk that oozes sensuality and elegance for a number of reasons is triumphant this season. Silk absorbs moisture, which makes it a versatile fabric wearable in both summers and winters. Matched with the color of the year, a sizzling yellow called Mimosa, according to the Pantone Institute is just hot hot hot!

Sheers and Lace
Sheer and light fabrics along with lace aptly suitable to beat the summer heat are the new trend for the season. Elegance is the key to wearing the sheer fashion trend this year.

Laces is used layered over shiny fabrics in some contrasting colors is all the talk of the runway shows of hottest designers in their Spring/Summer collections.

As we’ve seen in previous posts (Read: All About Colors And What They Say About You), colors are a huge part of our everyday life in almost everything we do and have a profound and undeniable impact on our lives. They reflect  our mood and evoke different feelings. They say a lot about our personalities. Cheery colors like bright yellow reflect optimism and joyfulness, icy blues associated with water evoke a refreshing cool feel even if the weather is hot and orange represents energy & warmth but also shows playfulness.

Take a look at the latest information on Colors of the Season:

BOLD Yellow
Yes, the color of Sunshine, Sunflowers and Summer this year is non other than Yellow. This bold shade has recently been in the limelight as a popular red carpet choice of young celebrities. The lovely sunny spring weather calls for a splash of the vibrant lemony yellow on dresses, jackets and skirts.

Bleached Neutrals
As temperatures are on the rise sun-bleached shades like corals, champagne, tuscany and most commonly nude are creating a delicate palette to beat the heat. These bleached pastels provide the much needed soothing tones and are perfect for intimates, loungewear, fitness wear such as yoga, as well as for glamorous evening wear as seen across runways and red carpet events.

Icy Blues
Summer conjures up images of the ocean and it’s tropical turquoise color. Shades of blue with that icy cool feel will be very appealing these summery days as they evoke a feeling of escape.

Dry Earth
With nature and the environment under the spotlight, eco-friendly Earthy tones ranging from dark humus to dark bark, stone beige to puddle browns. You’ll see these shades teamed with a lot of natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, and silk.

Effervescent Brights
Bold, bright and daring best describes these shades that’ll complete the perfect summer look. Colors like candy orange, magenta, electric blue, eye-popping purple are up-beat tropical all the way. Bright colored dresses, accent pieces and accessories are Red Hot this season!

White
The classic summer color or non-color is back! Short flirty dresses in white are chic, fashionable and bound to keep you cool this as the temperature rises.

This article is brought to you by YogacaraShop.com – your source for special Yoga Apparel, yoga inspired clothing, comfort clothing clothing designed according to the Colors of the Chakras and the best trendy, high quality and comfortable  Fitness Apparel do visit YogacaraShop.com

References:
Spring 2010 Color and fabric forecast retrieved from
Fashionsnoops: http://www.fashionsnoops.com/
Stylesight: http://www.stylesight.com/
PANTONE Fashion Color Report Spring 2010: http://www.pantone.com/spring2010

10. The Slouchy Pant
We’ve all seen and made the most of the skinny pants and pencil jeans these past few seasons and while they’re not going out of style anytime soon, the slouchy pant is the new in thing. This equestrian inspired look it very wearable for most body types. Also called the harem look or Jodhpur pants, the slouchy pants have been spotted on the runway from designers like Tommy Hilfiger, Marc Jacobs, Dolce & Gabbana and more.

9. Boyfriend Blazer & Vests
While a great blazer in a woman’s closet is a must-have staple we feel the boyfriend blazer adds a new sophistication to a trend that has almost reached commonality. This blazer meant to be a size too big adds just the touch you needs to make it look borrowed, yet perfect for the complete layered look. Vest’s too worn open and oversized to a more tailored and fitted option are the choice to make this season. No cardigans please!

8. Shorter Shorts
With temperatures rising and global warming news making waves, hemlines of already short shorts just went up to almost briefs status. Hot pants, boy shorts, tap pants, high-cuts in cotton, jersey, seersucker, denim, sequins and t-shirt material will be well loved this season. However, this look is intended to highlight and reveal a perfectly toned derriere and model long legs so may not be suitable for all.

7. Sportswear
Sportswear will take on a whole new level of cool when it hits trend status in 2010. We’re not talking active wear as workout apparel, but making fitness clothing- fashionable streetwear! The oh so active look is cool, sporty and chic with a touch of tomboy. Clothing inspired by sports like football, tennis, baseball and even yoga are youthful and have attitude.

6. Cropped Tees
Continuing the sportswear as streetwear and boyfriend trends is the midriff bearing cropped tee look. Pushing the envelope of the borrowed look are a new alternative to cover ups while exposing some well chiseled abs. Teamed with high-waist shorts or pants, they’re complement the female body and still add a tomboy feel.

5. Hoods
Yet another sports inspired trend are the ever popular hoodies. Seen on one piece jumpsuits and playsuits across runways, the simple zip up hoodie in bold colors and simple cotton jersey fabrics will be what you should be sweating it out in.

4. Prints & Patterns
Graphic prints that looked brushed on, splatter prints both bright and bold or subtle and sophisticated teamed with a solid block color are all the rage. Practically every designer participated in the print and pattern party from Luca Luca and Michael Kors to BCBG Max Azria and Carolina Herrera. Seen on day dresses to evening gowns, pants to flowy tops. While not everyone was blessed with the mix-and-matching gene this season you can just pick up some oh-so-perfectly paired prints just off the racks.

3. Sheers
The perfect weather for some of those extra revealing trends. If you have the desire to show a little off, then sheer fabrics are the way to go. This trend can easily go terribly wrong from sensual to sex-kitten, if not pulled off right. What you want to look for when buying sheer fabrics is a mixture of the soft and feminine without being too revealing. Sheer necklines or delicate, feminine draped skirts is the safest bet with this trend.

2. Cut Outs
Want to take it one notch up?Then chose to use cut-outs, slits and more to give a sexy little peek at the some exposed skin with this trend. Cut-outs on the backs of dresses was big in the spring summer collections on the runway. Even slashed denims right down to the shredded jeans are hitting the streets all over again making the peek-a-boo factor huge this coming summer.

1. Feminine Details
Over-the-top ruffles and tiers, flouncy blouses, Grecian drapery and girlish design details are key this season. Designers used them everywhere – on tops, skirts and pretty layered dresses and we think they are a MUST come Spring 2010.

References:
Spring 2010 Color and fabric forecast retrieved from
Fashionsnoops: http://www.fashionsnoops.com/
Stylesight: http://www.stylesight.com/
Fashionising: http://www.fashionising.com

This article is brought to you by YogacaraShop.com – your source for special Yoga Apparel, yoga inspired clothing, comfort clothing clothing designed according to the Colors of the Chakras and the best trendy, high quality and comfortable  Fitness Apparel do visit YogacaraShop.com

With New Year’s just over, I bet on many a new year’s resolution list is the exercise regularly or get fit point. And we’re here to help you get a kickstart fir that fitness regime by dressing the part. Working out is such a psychological thing and to motivate yourself to do anything high energy or high impact the proper attire can help a lot.

Many people question the use of special workout wear or fitness apparel vs just wearing a regular old baggy t-shirt and loose fit sweats. While we can give you the whole boo-ha of how special active wear designed by the big companies and brands use special technology in their fabrics that absorb moisture and help in your fitness regime. While those points are valid, the bottom line is that it is more psychological than anything, if your goal of exercising is to feel good in your body, why wear clothes that make you feel big and frumpy when you ARE exercising? Workout apparel closer fitted to the body actually helps you move a little bit better offering you greater ease of movement. Wearing more fitted clothing has also proven to be a motivating factor while exercising, as you tend to be able to see the shape of your body and the parts engaged in the exercise and not. This keeps one on their toes and plays a role in wanting to get in better shape.

The first thing to consider when buying fitness apparel is the type of exercise you intend on doing. For example, if you’re doing yoga which is low impact, the moves are slower and you don’t sweat much you can look for fabrics that breathe easily like cotton mixes. Yoga apparel should have stretch and extreme movability. The colors for yoga tend to be muted and on the earthy side rather than bright popping shades. Wearing clothes in the colors of the chakras are great stimulants when practicing yoga. For high impact exercises like aerobics, jogging, spinning etc. you want materials that will wick away moisture and not lock it in. Some fabric use a technology that actually moves the moisture off your body to the outer layer of the clothing, keeping you dry while working out. You also need to consider proper support in your top or sports bra when doing such activities. Bright colors and cheery prints are great for high impact workouts, it will make it that much easier to get inspired and motivated to put it on and go work out.

Own one set of staple or essential workout attire- a well fitted bootcut draw-string or elastic waist pants in a solid color like black, a well fitted tank which can be layered or worn with a sweatshirt should be a universal staple in every woman’s wardrobe whether they work out or just lounging out. This out fit is works just as good outside of the gym as inside.

*Photo Credits: photos by lululemon athletica on flickr.

This Fall/Winter it’s OUT with the Drab Neutrals and IN with Bold Colors

Traditionally the drop in outside temperature coincides with drab neutrals taking over our closet space as we switch to our winter wear, well NOT this year! 2009′s Fall/Winter Color Trends come alive with bright bold, lively colors that one usually sees in spring or summer. As seen in designer collections across runways and as predicted by experts vibrant colors will be influencing our winter picks this season. Said to be representing hope for the future as the economy picks up, rich tomato reds, feminine pinks, electric blues, mysterious purples along with fresh citrus hues are all the buzz this season. Let’s take a closer look at the Hottest Colors of Fall/Winter 2009:

.

.

Bright Reds
Make a visual impact with juicy red clothes. From passion-evoking scarlet, vermillion, cherry, stop light to crimson, red shades can pack a major wallop of modernity to your style. The best part is, since a little bit of this classic color adds a lot, it works as a great accent color too, if you can pull off a bold piece.

This simple yet sassy red scoop neck top (pictured right) features not just the season’s hottest color by combines another season trend- Stud detailing.

.

.

Blue & Teal
A hot color running for back to back seasons is electric blue. However, for warmer early fall days turquoise is a hot favorite, while deep teal is a hue which will make a statement for cooler fall days.

(pictured left). An electric blue double “V” neck stretch knit top that will take you from workout to shopping with comfort and style, with long sleeves and a Rhine stud logo. 

.

.
Earthy Tones
Of the neutrals this season, shades like sage, tan, olive and beige lend an almost  natural herbal and mineral feel providing a much needed balance and oneness with nature. Earthy tones are very in.

(Pictured right). A perfect Hooded dress a great item to integrate into your casual wardrobe or to team with opaque tights another of the season’s specials. 

.

Soft Pinks
Rose Dust with subtle rose undertones which has the feel of “fuchsia and the softness of pink” will be the leading neutral shade of the season. It’s a great color for cosmetics, as well. Flirty and feminine, the addition of this subtle shade can bring a perfect contrast needed in your winter closet.

(Pictured left )Get the sweet girl next door look in this soft pink t-shirt with unique thousand petals  rhinestone design.

* Photo credits: above fashion photo by Tammy Manet on flickr.\

This article is brought to you by YogacaraShop.com – your source for special Yoga Apparel, yoga inspired clothing, comfort clothing clothing designed according to the Colors of the Chakras and the best trendy, high quality and comfortable  Fitness Apparel do visit YogacaraShop.com