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FitBeauty: Yoga clothing that'll make you go ohhhhhm

Posted on Jan 11th 2007 6:00AM by Jessica Ashley

Welcome to Fit Beauty, a new weekly feature that will focus on the lovely intersection of looking fabulous and feeling (or getting) fit. Fit Beauty won't be about conforming to an unattainable ideal or all lip gloss and over-priced luxuries (although there may be a bit of the luxe, just for fun). We'll focus on things that help you help yourself feel phenomenal (and after all, sometimes that is lip gloss), things that feel great on your skin and are good for the earth, and above all, things that are healthy lifestylish. Fit Beauty is a bit cheeky, a teense chic, and always celebrating the gorgeousness within.


So you've made your resolutions, signed up for a sweaty yoga class and sworn to stop hitting the snooze button and start practicing sun salutations. Or perhaps you've already clocked lots of hours with your pilates instructor, said your so-hums and transformed that junk food body to a toned-up temple. Wherever you are on your journey to healthy living, whether you are seeking some motivation or a few rewards, great new gear can turn you from a yoga chick to yoga chic in just a few clicks.

Of course, you can get your om on in a big old baggy t-shirt and sweatpants (I judge not, honest). You can also get sassy, sexy and spirited (even at the same time) with a wide range of yoga clothing that will knock your socks off. If getting into your very own goddess pose includes hand-painted pants, appliqued tanks or couture-ish tunics, then get ready for a workout wardrobe change. The internet is bursting at the seams with hip yoga clothing that is also comfortable and asana-appropriate.


It's all about the pants. I have a really hard time being present in my yoga class if I'm wearing ill-fitting or unsuitable pants. My favorite hiking pants are too warm, my favorite lounging pants are too long and my favorite Sunday afternoon pants are too binding. It sounds complicated, but what it comes down to is that I can't concentrate on letting go if I'm yanking on my not-so-yoga pants. If you are one of those people who is happy working out in jeans (like the nice lady on the mat next to me each week), more power to you. But for those of you who require more stretchiness and less rise and fall, I highly recommend breaking down and buying yourself a few pairs of yoga pants (or a few more pairs, as the case may be). And if you're going to invest, consider these eye-catching pants that will actually make you excited about a spandex blend:

The Buddha pants by Balidog come in a host of colors and are hand-painted with spiritually-inspired graphics that resemble gorgeous Zen tattoos. My favorite are the Gods style, but on a day when I depend on the powers that be to get me through my practice, I am sure the Krishna print pants could answer the call. I'm also drawn to the Shiva pants that seem to be a kicked-up version of the plain old black capris I've worn around the house to yoga for years.

If you're looking for pants that sport a bit more flow than yoga bootie, Yogi has a butter-soft pair of wide-leg, tie waist pants that are just cheeky enough. The four color choices keep your yoga uniform interesting and the sweet (and forgiving) tie allows you to cinch or release the low-rise waist as needed.

Top it off. Admit it, it's time to trade in the oversized 5K souvenir shirt for a more form-fitting tank or tee. If you're sticking with yoga pants in a basic color or style, consider accentuating your well-honed mudras or glorious biceps with one of these tops:

While I personally love the sweeping angel-wing stretches my yoga teacher works into every session, I am not so fond of showing my nakey belly to the whole class. To avoid the belly-ring-sneak, I'm going to follow the Eighties-obsessed fashion trends and get a few of these lengthened tees in whispery cotton fabric. These tunics will easily go from work to workout and the tummy protection will make all of us a bit more comfortable in class next week.

If you've worked hard for those abs, show off a bit with this chakra shirt by Sivana Spirit. The cute center drawstring allows you to adjust how deep you'd like the v-neck to be, while the style accentuates your waistline and midriff (not to worry, it's more peekaboo than Paris Hilton).

This sweet flower top by Scout Performance is made from a quick-dry lycra blend and will stand up to steamy power sessions and still look styley during backbends.


For the brave and the cool. If you need more than just a variation on a standard, you've got to stop by TranquiliT, an online boutique for the yoga-minded. I imagine you'll want to fill your shopping cart with this trendy-wear that's perfect for the mat divas among us:

When someone says "jumpsuit," I immediately think "Barbarella," so I was taken aback when I saw this number. I love the bare-shoulder flair. I love the palazzo pants. I love that you could throw on some sessy heels, a big old necklace and a fitted jacket and go from final relaxation to fantastic night out. Who knew bamboo could be so beautiful (and so delightfully antibacterial)?

If your class is your catwalk, you'll also adore this capelet/skirt combo. Add some (more) panache to the jumpsuit by throwing it over your shoulders. It's also perfect to wear over those Lindsey Lohan tights you've been debating whether you should rip the tags off and wear with no shame, or just return already.

Finally, this sophisticated 4-in-1 Cardishawl will serve you well from warm-up to cool down. I wish I'd had this graceful cover a few years ago to take me from proud, prenatal belly through awkward post-partum transition. Cashmere-soft and versatile, this piece will make over your tank-and-velour-pant routine with a pulled-together, elegant look.

Jumpsuit or jeans, tank or tattered tee, you'll look as sassy or serene as you feel in yoga class. Here's to a year ahead adorned with your favorite fitness style and -- whatever that is -- I bow to you, beauties all. Namasté.

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