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Mat to the street — Yoga outfits to love

For International Yoga Day, we speak to fitness and style experts on balancing the traditional art of meditation with a perfect dash of modern style.

Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just starting your practice, the right attire can enhance your experience and boost your confidence on the mat. Practicing yoga has immensely benefited people from all age groups, and continues to do so.

Vibrant mood:

The overall wellness wear is shifting towards feeling good on every occasion (including yoga and gym wear). People are thoughtfully choosing to balance their focus on function, comfort, and style with versatile pieces that celebrate human connection. Nature-inspired shades of green, blue, and black with joyful accents of citrus lime and orange or peachy pop are currently popular, informs Humera Tamboli, founder of fashion label Sensing.
She says, “Conventional design details of layering, pleats, and pockets cross paths with bold yet subtle textures and playful contrasts. There is a lot of sustainable fabric innovation happening around the world. Choose styles made from blends of natural materials that are breathable, soothing on the skin, and have relaxed fits. Also, check wash-care and drying instructions especially for innovative fabrics so that they can last longer.”

Luxe aesthetic:

Quiet Luxury has become the everyday norm, and athleisure is embracing sobering palettes and a luxe feel with calculated colour highlights. The trending colours are ice blue, winter white, melange, and a pop of acid. Tonal black remains a key element in all yoga and athleisure outfits, feels Umashan Naidoo, head of customer & beauty at Westside. Elaborating more on the trends, Naidoo says, “In terms of styles, racerbacks, jazz pants, and sweats are major statements, but one can enhance their style with ribbed designs, shoulder cuts, thumbhole long-sleeved tops, high-waisted leggings, etc. Our fabrics let you move at your own pace and are perfect for cool airport looks as well as a fitness lifestyle.”

High on design:

In 2024, yoga and fitness wear trends are all about embracing bold colours and vibrant prints. While black remains a staple and a favorite in the Indian activewear market, a shift in consumer preferences is clear with a growing desire for smart athletic wear. Bhavin Devpuria, marketing head at Triumph International, remarks, “Vibrant colours are also being appreciated, especially when it comes to activewear bottoms, like leggings. Preference is for colours that effortlessly complement any outfit, such as purple, and blue, that allow for a pop of personality in the activewear. Our Triaction collection includes RTW high-waist leggings in trendy colours. With respect to activewear, for example, while practicing yoga, it is important to prioritise moisture-wicking and quick-dry materials to stay comfortable while practicing indoors or outdoors. It must support the body with breathable, supportive fabrics that enhance movement. To ensure a more personalised fit, it is important for designs to have adjustable elements, such as straps and waistbands.”

In sync with nature:

For young yoga practitioners, blends made from natural materials (like cotton, wool, linen), eco-friendly performance fabrics, and vegan apparel that are alternative to synthetic fabrics are the latest fad. Runway model and yoga coach Amit Ranjan, who has been practicing it for more than ten years, shares his two cents. He says, “The meditative aspects of yoga have enhanced my focus and mindfulness, allowing me to approach life's challenges with a calm and centered mindset. The best yoga wear for me is comfortable, free-flowing, and vibrant to uplift the mood. The fabric feel, fall, and fit are important factors for good yoga wear. Flowy garments help asanas with ease and do not restrict blood circulation. Choose details that reflect your personality and make you feel good — bold prints, calming pastels, and classic black or neutrals are popular choices along with stylish details like mesh panels and cut-outs.”
Interestingly, many yoga enthusiasts are also shifting from plain, boring products to vibrant, purposefully designed accessories. Prateek Kedia, Founder, of WiseLife Wellness India Private Limited, talks about the latest trends in Yoga accessories and highlights, “In 2024, yoga accessories will be focusing on aesthetics and functionality. We offer a range of mats made from cork and natural rubber, popular for their eco-friendly materials and superior grip. When investing in yoga accessories, it’s crucial to consider individual needs. Mats with extra cushioning for those with knee pain and those that effectively absorb moisture due to sweating are good buys. Prioritizing durability, ease of maintenance, and eco-friendliness are some things to keep in mind for choosing the best accessory.”
"“In terms of styles, racerbacks, jazz pants, and sweats are major statements, but one can enhance their style with ribbed designs, shoulder cuts, thumbhole
long-sleeved tops, high-waisted leggings, etc.”— Umashan Naidoo

“Vibrant colours are also being appreciated, especially when it comes to activewear bottoms, like leggings.” — Bhavin Devpuria


( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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