If you’ve been thinking about jump-starting your fitness for the new year, why not try yoga? Sure, big time celebs have long been fans of the centuries old stretching and meditation techniques, but you also have to admit that the clothes and gear is amazingly cool and chic! So, we figure, if you can start practicing something that will help get you in shape, keep your mind clear and calm, all while wearing clothes that are super cute… that’s definitely for us! Here’s a few key pieces to get you started…

Tops – The key to finding the right yoga top is to look for something that is fitted, but allows you to move. That’s why tank tops are so perfect! There are tanks that are completely fitted like this and this, tanks that are loose in the right places like this, and tanks that are loose and flowy all over, like this. Any of them will fit the bill for your time on the mat.

Bralettes – Bralettes are great because they are so comfy, and yet still supportive (of course, bigger busted girls will need a heftier sports bra). It’s the lack of serious structure and underwires that will allow you to move without being conscious of a bra digging into you and confining you. And you have so many lovely styles to choose from, like this, this, this…just to list a few.

Jackets and Hoodies – Another key to dressing for yoga, is layering. You will be going from an outside climate to an indoor one, and yoga studios usually vary in temperature as well. Your own body will also go through temperature changes, as you warm up and cool down before, during, and after class. You can opt for a comfy hoodie style like this and this, a fitted long sleeve like this, a loose pull-over like this, a ballet-inspired wrap like this, or a zip-up jacket like this.

Pants – When choosing yoga pants, look for whatever style makes you feel most comfortable. Remember, a huge part of yoga is calming and focusing your mind…and you can’t do that if you’re uncomfortable with the skin you’re showing. So pick what you love…shorts like these, ¾ length like these, full length like this, this, and this, or even a full body unitard.

Mats – No matter what your level of skill in yoga, the right yoga mat will offer you the best combination of cushion and stickiness in order to keep you from slipping while you execute your various poses. As you progress, you will be able to narrow down what feels and works best for you, but gorgeous and colorful mats like this, this, and this are ideal choices for every level. And don’t forget to add a strap, holder, or bag to make carrying the mat to and from class even easier.

 

Image by Dave Rosenblum is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 (source: flickr)