Now that we’re all settled into those new workout routines we embarked upon in January, it’s time to shift our focus to the really important part: what to wear while we’re getting fit!  My friend Kristin McGee, aka “The Bendi Girl”, tells us about the pieces of her yoga wardrobe that she can’t live without.

THE PERFECT YOGA WARDROBE

As a yoga teacher, I practically live in yoga clothes. I need items that are stylish, comfortable and support my practice and teaching. I often have new students ask me what should they wear to yoga class. Here is a list of some of my must have yoga pieces for your wardrobe.

*A great pair of black yoga pants that are comfortable and form fitting and you can move easily in.

I personally love the straight leg black yoga legging and you can find these in an array of price ranges and fits. From C9 by Champion to Victoria’s Secret VSX line to Lululemon, you can find a pair that fits your budget and your build.  For maternity yoga leggings, I love Ingrid & Isabel’s leggings in capri length or full length.

Black yoga leggings are easy to wear from class with a stylish pair of black boots or ballet slippers for your errands. Once you find a pair that you love, make sure to buy a couple of them so you can alternate. You can also play around with cropped tight leggings or try the black boot cut if you prefer that style. Trends will come and go with colored pants and designs, if your budget allows you can also get some fun pieces that are bright or patterned.

*At least 3 to 4 supportive yoga tanks.

I can’t live without a great fitting yoga tank with a built in bra. It’s best to wear something form fitting not loose. The biggest mistake I see is women wearing loose tee shirts or billowy tops. You don’t want material in your face when you do your downward facing dogs and standing forward bends. Each body type is different so you need to try on a few styles and find the fit that works for you. The tank should be supportive but not restrictive since it’s important to breathe fully and have freedom of movement. A sports bra with a tank over top can work as well if you prefer to layer. If you’re bustier, you may even want to layer a sports bra under a yoga tank with the built in bra.

For maternity styles, you may also want something with a bit of support in the stomach.  Via Prive has a great Tiger Lily Tank for maternity work out wear (call (424) 238-5902 for availability).

*A long sleeve dry wick shirt that is form fitting.

It’s important to be warm in class so your muscles stay heated and you’re comfortable. You can layer a long sleeve tee shirt over your yoga tank then remove it during class. Avoid anything with a built in hoodie, it will be a constant pain in forward bends and downward dogs. The shirt should be somewhat snug around the hips so it doesn’t ride up as well. The Gap has new long sleeve tops for workouts and yoga and they even have thumbholes, which are nice. If you run extra cold bring a large cozy wrap or sweatshirt you can put on just in the very beginning of class in simple seat and for sivasana (corpse pose) at the end of class.

*Bare feet

You don’t wear socks or shoes in yoga because you want to feel your feet on the earth and on the mat. Using your bare feet helps you connect with the earth and is crucial in balancing postures. If you are a germ freak or feel like you need something on your feet, you can get yogi toes socks that have grippy’s on the bottom. I like socks for the end of class in corpse pose to keep my feet warm, but otherwise think barefoot is the best option.

Really all you need for a great yoga practice is a simple pair of leggings, a supportive yoga tank and a layering piece for if you get cold. Invest in comfortable, practical staples then splurge every now and then on a cute layering piece or funky patterned yoga pant or yoga tank.