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.

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  Fitness Apparel

*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,

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 Fitness Apparel

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.

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  Fitness Apparel

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.

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

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.

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

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:

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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. (See more – Women’s Comfort Clothing in Red)

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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. (See more – Women’s Comfort Clothing in Blue)

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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. (See more – Women’s Comfort Clothing in Earthy tones)

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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.  (See more – Women’s Comfort Clothing in Pinks)

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

** Clothing pictured available at Yogacarashop.com – Find Trendy women’s comfort clothing, yoga workout wear, fitness apparel and more.

Fitness and work outs are designed to make you feel good right? So, what better way to feel good than to look good while you sweat it out.

Wearing the right workout clothes has more to it than just the ‘feel good’ factor. While studies have suggested that you are more likely to have a better workout if you are happy with your outer appearance, wearing the appropriate fitness apparel is about function. Designed for freedom of movement and comfort while performing the activity, workout clothing is both functional and practical. Doesn’t mean it can’t be trendy and chic, right? If the celebrities can work it, so can we. Personally, sporting some trendy fitness gear just motivates me to sweat it out harder. We’ve compiled a short list of workout apparel essentials to have no matter what your fitness routine.

Pants: A very important piece, you want to look for pants that move with you and do not restrict movement in any way. Fabric blends of stretchable spandex and soft cotton are ideal as exercise wear as it stretches and moves comfortably while recovering its shape.If you prefer full length (great for autumn and winter) pants go for a style slightly flared and not too tight at the knee. Cropped pants or capris are great not only to show of those toned legs but for leg focused activities like running, jogging, yoga and jumping rope.

Tanks and Tees: For your upper body too, look for tops that don’t restrict the movement of your arms. Tanks and t-shirts in breathable fabrics that wick moisture easily are great as active-wear. The choices for styles of tops are endless from, sleeveless tanks, cropped shirts to t-shirts and hoodies.

A Good Support Bra: When you’re doing the jumping around and exercise routines, a good bra is highly essential. Sports bra’s true to their name offer serious support and are the best for work outs. Comfort is of utmost importance here and for that your bra has to be well-fitted. If you’ve got the body you can just opt for the ‘meant to be seen’ body shaping sport tops that saucy yet, serious.

Shoes: This piece of your workout gear needs some cushion or shock absorbency in it. Sports shoes are plentiful but can be priced a bit on the higher side. Keep them aside for workout’s only and one good pair shoes, you can hold onto for a couple of years making them well worth the investment.

Jackets: A drop in temperature is no reason to abandon your outdoor fitness routine. With some stylish yet functional outerwear, you can keep you toasty, even when the wind starts blowing. Hooded terry jackets are good for keeping warm and offer stretch for range of motion, not to mention a great addition to your wardrobe for layering.