Tag Archives: clothes

Brands of Yoga Clothes You Need in Your Practice (and Your Closet)

For anyone who regularly attends yoga class, you’ve likely had the experience of being lost in a sea of Lululemon lycra. And while it is as great a brand as any to move and sweat in during your yoga practice, there are some excellent (and fashionable) options out there that you should know about.

And who knows? One of these other fashionable lines might just show off your unique style, both in and out of the studio. Not to mention, some can save you money while still providing an extremely high-quality product.

Here are the top eight fashion yoga brands not to be missed this year:

Beyond Yoga

Made for women by women, Beyond Yoga prides itself in producing high-quality sportswear for not just yoga, but for everyday life. As opposed to some criticism over the sizing of some other popular yoga brands, Beyond Yoga makes a point to only use non-retouched photography and comes in sizes XXS-XXL. They also take pride in their philanthropic endeavors, so you can feel good about how your money is being spent. Orders are all placed online.

beyond yoga clothing
Image courtesy of Beyond Yoga
Beyond yoga clothing
Image courtesy of Beyond Yoga

Onzie

Onzie was created by a 20-year-old Bikram Yogi and describes its look as “active apparel that is functional, flexible and flattering.” Made in California and on the more affordable side, Onzie creates no-frills yoga and daily wear that is made not only to sweat in, but to last. With everything from sports bras to loungewear, Onzie also offers free priority shipping anywhere in the United States. 

onzie yoga clothing 2016
Image courtesy of Onzie

prAna

With seven stores across the country, prAna offers affordable and unique clothing to meet just about any active-wear need. Started in California, prAna products are stylish, versatile and sustainably made. From yoga to rock climbing to grocery shopping, you’ll find truly unique and sexy styles to choose from. Aside from their chic look, prAna clothing is made from sustainable materials such as hemp, organic cotton and recycled wool.

Teeki

Made with love in the USA, Teeki is certainly edgier and sexier than your average yoga wear. If you’re looking to express your individual style, this is the brand for you. Teeki also makes Eco-friendly clothing not just for yogis, but for surfers, dancers, athletes, and gym-goers. They even include recycled water bottles in their materials!

Lorna Jane

Said to be the next Lululemon, this designer Australian brand has hundreds of stores worldwide. Founded by a fitness instructor in 1989, Lorna Jane produces clothing for women wanting to “lead her best life through active living.” On the pricier side, Lorna Jane also prints inspirational slogans on many of their items (which may or may not be something you like). Be aware that they only accept returns for exchange or store credit, not for “change of mind purposes.”

Zella 

Zella is a Nordstrom line of active wear, and looks fairly similar to the design of Lululemon, while generally being a fraction of the price. Actually, some of Zella’s products are so similar to Lululemon because the same product manager was hired in the design. The fabric feels a bit thinner and lighter than a pair of Lulu pants,  and their design is classic and sensible while still being highly fashionable.

Zobha 

Zobha integrates fashion and fitness in a sexy way , and is perfect if you’re looking to feel comfortable and flirtatious in your yoga class. Zobha prides its brand in catering to women who are “edgy, modern or urban” and who want to “effortlessly infuse fitness and fashion.” They are an online company, but offer a 30 day no-questions-asked refund policy.

Mika Yoga Wear 

Mika Yoga Wear doesn’t stop at yoga, but also specializes in active wear for pole dancing, hot yoga and swimming. This family owned company produces their goods in Peru, and describes their brand as “fresh, flattering and feminine.” Their prices are  competitive, and you can also find some great deals in the sale section of their site.

You don’t have to dress the same as your fellow-yogis. By exploring some of these lesser-known but super fashionable yoga brands, you can choose what speaks to your style and personality. Also, check out this artsy and locally made option for yoga mats and accessories by Magic Carpet Yoga Mats. Next time you’re on the market for fashion-friendly yoga gear, try some of these fun, unique and stylish alternatives.

*Featured image courtesy of Onzie

Menswear Made Feminine: How to Wear Your Boyfriend’s Clothes

The holidays are over and you’re feeling spent…literally. All the last-minute gift giving, charitable as it was, has left you on the strictest of budgets. Now, instead of treating yourself to some end-of-year sales, the only shopping you’ll be doing is in your closet. Or, if you’re smart, in your boyfriend’s closet. Now is the perfect time to channel your creative side and incorporate some menswear into your wardrobe. And we’re not talking womenswear simply inspired by men’s clothing. We mean “I bought it from the men’s department, next to the ties and boxers” menswear. You can’t really beat the idea of expanding your options without having to spend a dime, right?

 

Not quite sold on the trend? Start small by topping off your ensemble with some men’s accessories. Exchange your dainty timepiece for a bolder, chunkier look. Swap the bangles for a handkerchief on your wrist. You can even add some panache to your fit by throwing on a subtle skinny tie. These pieces are appropriate wherever your day takes you, from the office to your dinner date.

menswear outfit

Post-Christmas is an optimal season to dig around in your guy’s closet. Winter has set in and, when weekend errands are beckoning, it’s a struggle avoiding the impulse to just throw a coat on over your pajamas. Instead of risking this fashion faux pas, opt for the casual, comfy look, and pair your boyfriend’s cozy sweater with leggings and boots. It’s easy and totally beats that awkward moment when you, fully clad in your Christmas onesie, unexpectedly cross paths with an acquaintance in the freezer aisle.

menswear outfit

Incorporating a men’s button down into your outfit offers some great versatility. Not only are you able to snag some funky patterns that may not be traditionally found in clothing tailored to women, but the loose fit allows you to layer to your heart’s content. Top the button down with a fitted blazer or sweater and finish the look with a colored leather mini and tights. The mix of feminine and masculine create an edgy juxtaposition that fellow fashionistas are sure to admire.

menswear outfit

*All photos: Dionna Carter

Our Favorite Cozy Fall Sweaters

There’s nothing that beats the feeling of having a super snuggly sweater wrapped around you when it’s impossibly chilly outside. And since we aren’t able to completely hibernate, these cozy sweaters are practically the next best thing from actually being curled up on the couch with your favorite mug in hand and blanket in lap. These are the sweaters you’re going to want to live in this holiday season. Sweater weather, meet your match!

 

Chunky Cowl Neck + Cashmere Turtleneck

These relaxed cowl neck sweaters with the dipped neck are ridiculously comfy and their slouchy fit goes great with fitted bottoms. While the cashmere turtleneck is a slim-fit, it keeps the warmth in and is ultra soft. It’s perfect paired underneath a leather jacket, heavy blazer, or peacoat.

cowlneck1-copy

cowlneck2-copy
Image courtesy of A Double Dose (@samanthabelbel)

 

 

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cowlneck3-copy
Image courtesy of A Double Dose (@samanthabelbel)

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cashmere turtleneck
Image courtesy of Joie Noel (@joienoel)

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Knitted Pullover

These cable knit pullover sweaters with draped dolman sleeves have an eye-catching stitched pattern that can be worn alone but also layer beautifully. Knitted pullovers are easy, they keep the cold away and the cozy in.  

knitpullover1-copy
Image courtesy of A Double Dose (@samanthabelbel)

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Image courtesy of Joie Noel (@joienoel)

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Fringed Hem

The flowy silhouette on this oversized wool-blend sweater go perfectly with the boho-inspired fringed hem and plunging neckline. This mega cozy and casual sweater with undeniable flare goes perfectly with skinny denim jeans and chunky-heeled booties.

fringe
Image courtesy of D’s Moments Blog (@dsmomentsblog)

 

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Laced Up 

One of trendiest sweaters of the bunch, this is the sweater that strikes the balance between looking good and keeping cozy best. With the deep V neckline, long stretched-out sleeves, and playful knit bodice, this sweater is the perfect pair to your favorite jeans.

 

laceup1-copy
Image courtesy of Bourks and Bees (@bourksandbees)

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laceup2-copy
Image courtesy of A Double Dose (@samanthabelbel)

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Cold Shoulder

This cold shoulder sweater will give onlookers anything but that. While the cut-out sections in this fashion forward piece leave arms not fully covered, it lays very comfortably. The ribbed material hugs your body, keeping it warm, while still making for a relaxed fit.

 

coldshoulder-copy
Image courtesy of Emma’s Edition (@emmasedition)

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 Bell Sleeve

The statement sleeves on this sweater will get any outfit noticed this season without sacrificing any of the cozy. In fact, the bell hem on the extra-long sleeves make this sweater feel even more cozy on top of looking chic and classy.

 

bellsleeve-copy
Image courtesy of My View in Heels (@myviewinheels)

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Airport Attire: How to Combine Fashion and Comfort

If there’s ever a time when you want to be comfortable, it’s when you’re traveling; but what if you don’t want to sacrifice your sense of style so that you can feel good during your flight? How do you combine your impeccable taste in fashion with your desire to rest easily while you’re racing through the terminals and then thousands of feet in the air? Don’t worry — all fashion is not lost in the quest for convenience. Here are five airport attire musts for your next trip.

1. A Cozy Pair of Flats

Sure, you can rock a pair of heels; but when you’re walking on the hard tile floor of the airport and then sitting for a five-hour flight, you’ll be wishing you had been nicer to your poor feet. Find a pair of flats that are on the softer side but still provide a bit of support. You can go as fancy or as simple as you want. The  Rita flats from Barneys New York are easy to style and offer a feminine flair.

ballet flats in a box

2. Leggings or a Pair of Chic Joggers

Leggings provide the ultimate in comfort while still leaving you the option to dress them up. You can pair them with a plain tee or jazz them up with your favorite silk blouse. And when you’re stuck sitting for hours on end, you’ll be glad you wore something that lets you wiggle in your chair a little more freely. American Apparel leggings have a solid reputation for longevity.

leggings

If you’re looking for something with a bit more give, these Alexander McQueen sweatpants will do the trick.

3. The Perfect Oversized Sweater

Tighter tops might flatter your gorgeous figure, but they’re bound to feel restricting in the confines of an airplane. Instead of snug jackets and shirts, opt for an oversized sweater or cardigan. Style Bop has got the right idea with a travel-perfect knit sweater. Cozy and casual— two of our favorite words.
Beautiful girl in a knitted sweater on the background of a beaut

4. A Long, Full Scarf

The purpose here is twofold. Not only do scarves beautifully complement a variety of outfits, but they double as excellent pillows mid-flight. When your eyes are feeling heavy and you’re ready to take a snooze, that big, wraparound scarf will really come in handy. As an added bonus, scarves are easy to take from cold weather to warm; so if your travels find you in a different climate, you can still hang on to this part of your ensemble. Try an Italian wool scarf from J. Crew — it goes with everything.

woman with scarf
Image via Pixabay under license CC0

5. A Billed Hat for Privacy

A billed hat is the equivalent of a “Do Not Disturb” sign. Pull this over your eyes, and you can rest assured your neighboring passengers will give you some quiet time. Try something with a soft, flexible brim, like the Eugenia Kim Genie Franny Hat. Not only will you look model-ready, but you’ll be able to rest comfortably in your seat with it on.

floppy black hat
What’s your favorite airport outfit? Share it on Instagram and don’t forget to tag us with @beyondwordsmag!