Women Lifestyle, Fashion, Health, Beauty and Personality

Because ease movement is a must in today’s hustle and bustle world, active wear is moving out the gym and onto the street. Wearing a great outfit can lift our spirits, but can the right attire also improve our performance at the gym? Many expert think so.

“The right clothes always helps or hinders a workout”, like JR Gomez said, owner of Trend and Sport, a chic active wear boutique in Los Angeles. He explains: “The wrong material can cause you to struggle. Whether it’s chaffing, binding or absorbing too much sweat, when you struggle, less likely to work as hard the next time you exercise.”

Besides cut and fit, fabric is also another important aspect of active wear. Spandex used to be the textile of choice, but now technology is intervening. Antimicrobial fabrics are key players nowadays, since they keep odor and sweet under control.

Coolmax, a moisture-wicking fabric, is one of the new chic-materials, it allows you to breathe all the while keeping you dry.

The most advanced development in today’s fabric is the advent of built-in UV protection for those who exercise outdoors. People are becoming more aware of skin cancer and clothing that protects you from the sun is always a plus.

While these new tech-mo textiles are all the rage with those who run, pump iron or climb Stair masters, at the other extreme are yoga enthusiasts, who prefer to go completely natural.
Cotton is the only fabric of choices for those who prefer to stretch their way into shape. Yoga has also inspired new cuts in active apparel.
Capri length and draw string pants are very popular. Another can’t-miss active wear style is the sleeveless top.
Fashion is creating such an impact in sports apparel that designers and other big name celebrities are getting into the game.
For example, Stela McCartney is now designing for Adidas and model-turned-exercise guru Christy Turlington signed on with Puma.

When the movie Million Dollar Baby came out, boxing shirts started really selling. In the world of sports, tennis ace Serena Williams, Sparks basketball center Lisa Leslie, and hot-shot golfer Jennifer Rosales are key fashionistas.

But whether they work out or not, today’s consumers are reaching for clothing that keeps up with their laid-back attitude and demanding lifestyles. People are not only becoming more health conscious, but also becoming more casual. Workout clothing has been tailored to cross over from athletic use to casual-wear.