Option #1 A Fun Print!

Jala Clothing High/Low Dress

Tassels, print and the cut make the Jala High/Low Dress interesting and fun. Since it already has a lot of details, I’d keep it simple with some flip flops and a big pair of sunglasses. The straps are big enough to cover up your bra straps and the dress can easily go from the beach to out to dinner.

Option #2 A Sophisticated Wrap

Zobha Wrap Waist Dress

The Zobha Wrap Waist Dress is perfect for any outing. The longer length and flattering wrap style makes this dress fashionable for work, play or walking on the beach. My suggestion, just switch up your shoes and you are good to go. Also, the scoop back is adorable!

Option #3 The “I’m Always Cold” Dress

Stonewear Designs Riva Dress

If you are always cold (like me) you will love a dress with sleeves! Stonewear Designs Riva Dress has an empire waist and a V neck to create a flattering shape. The dress comes in pomegranate (above), black and snow. The Riva Dress is a great addition to any closet!

Option #4 Flirty Meets Sporty

Carve Designs Hailey Dress

How cute is the Carve Designs Hailey Dress? I’m a big fan of a the neutral pattern and elastic waist. Its light and airy but the waist gives it shape and style. There is a built in tank for support which gives it a sporty side. The A line skirt stops right above the knee, very flirty!

Although fashion is SO fun, it’s great to have pieces that you can throw on and just know they will look good. Which ActivewearUSA dress is your favorite?

On of my favorite bags is the FitMark Lavender Sport Tote.

FitMark Lavender Sport Tote

Why It’s Hot:

1. The color is amazing! Purple hue’s are fun, clean and it goes with everything. I love the contrast of the black straps and leather zipper pulls.

FitMark Lavender Sport Tote

2. It compartmentalizes you sweaty clothes in an antimicrobial laundry bag and has special pockets for valuables and your cell phone. No more reaching into your gym bag and grabbing something disgusting by mistake!

FItMark Lavender Sport Tote

3.  Insulated liner for your water bottle. FitMark just made working out more enjoyable by keeping your water or sports drink cool. I love how innovative the tote is!

FitMark Black Sport Tote

4. It comes in black too!

Another one of favorite FitMark gym bags is the FitMark Honeysuckle Dashing Tote.

FitMark Honeysuckle Dashing Tote

Why It’s Hot:

1. It does not look like a gym bag at all! It’s sleek leather handles and classic tote shape could easily be mistaken for a traditional pocketbook. You could use the Honeysuckle Dashing Tote in so many ways! I would definitely feel comfortable bringing my bag to a meeting then running to the gym.

FitMark Honeysuckle Dashing

2.  The Honeysuckle Dashing Tote still has all of the amazing space and compartments as the Sport Tote above.

FitMark Black Dashing Tote

3. Check out the Honeysuckle Dashing Tote in black! Now, this is a really classy and stylish bag that can go to any meeting, function or bootcamp!

Tell us what are your gym bag requirements on twitter and facebook!

Here are a few ideas on how to stay active while enjoying the warm summer months!

1. Outdoor Fitness Classes

Jala Clothing Shanti Gathered Waist Leggings

Outdoor fitness classes are a win-win situation. You can take your favorite class and still be outside! Just don’t forget your sunscreen. I am putting on an outdoor fitness series in Boston and I know a lot of other cities and towns provide them for the community. Often times they are free or by donation. Make sure you look at your local online newspapers, I’m sure something is available in your area.

2. Kayaking

Keep the hair out of your face with a Viva Diva Super Skinny headband from Sweaty Bands

I love kayaking! Its a great way to exercise, be in the water and it can be a full day activity. Grab friends, family or a significant other for an fun day in the sun. You will definitely sweat and your arms will feel it the next day!

3. Take a Hike

O’Neil 365 Water Bottle

Hiking is an amazing workout and a excellent way to enjoy gorgeous scenery and the outdoors. Hiking used to intimidate me until I realized there are so many different trails and options for new hikers to experienced ones. Make sure you grab a water bottle and maybe a healthy snack for a fun outdoor adventure.

4. Go for a Swim

Carve Designs Catalina Top

Do you catch yourself dipping in the water and then going back to your lounge chair? Dunk your head and go for a swim. A few laps of breast, back or freestyle will do a body good! I love swimming in the summer because you are working hard but you don’t feel hot and sweaty!

What is your favorite way to get active outdoors? Tell us on twitter and facebook!

Always consult with a physician before beginning any new exercise regimen.

When shopping for activewear, I have a few rules to keep me focused. My favorite pieces have to be:

1. Functional. Pieces have to transition well to different types of fitness activities and everyday life.

2. Unique. It has to either stand out or be such an amazing classic that it’s unique on its own.

3. Shape. I say it a lot, but shape is so important. It’s especially important when wearing fitted clothing. I look at the seaming and cut since they are factors that define shape.

Okay lets talk new clothing that include all three of my fabulous activewear requirements!

1. MPG Sport Harlow Top

MPG Sport Harlow

Chevron is in right now from clothes, wall paper and furniture. I love the long length and the racerback. Its nice to have a looser fit sometimes.

2. MPG Sport Simha Capri

MPG Sport Simha Capris

I love the Simha Capris because of their lower rise and red V shaped waist. I’m also a fan of dark colored workout pants that are not black. I tend to mainly have black pants in my closet so it’s nice to find something a little different. These pants have a reflective logo for outdoor workouts.

3. MPG Sport Balance Pants

MPG Balance Pants

I like to have some pants that are functional that don’t show off every single curve. I love the heather gray MPG Balance Pants because they are fitted but are a fit and flare style so they aren’t skin tight. I can picture these pants going from a walk to a random yoga session. They will definitely be a great weekend look!

Make sure you check in the Just In section for other great new additions to the ActivwearUSA store!

For the Hot Yogis:

Jala Clothing Metallic K OM Roll Down

Jala Clothing Metallic K OM Roll Down Yoga Shorts are for you! They move with you but also stay in place. The OM symbol which is the sound of the universe, is in beautiful metallic detailing.

Spacecat Koko Shorts- Miss Daisy

Hot yoginis, how cute are these tiny drawstring shorts? If you are looking for something smaller, bright and light, you will feel excellent while sweating in the Spacecat Koko Shorts in Miss Daisy.

Everyday Outdoor Shorts:

Carve Designs Fletcher Shorts

If you have a constant shorts dilemma like myself, the Carve Designs Fletcher Shorts will solve it! First, they are adorable. Second, they are extremely versatile. You could easily dress the shorts up with a pair of wedged heels or wear them to the beach or the pool. The Fletcher short is flattering, stretches and has mesh lined pockets if you are by the water. These are definitely a summer staple.

For the Runners:

SOAS Navy Rings Run Shorts

The SOAS Navy Rings Run Shorts are meant to feel like you are not wearing anything. When you are running, this is an awesome feeling. In everyday life, you will probably look down to make sure you aren’t living out your worst nightmare.

There is built in liner, pockets and has reflective piping. The classic green rings paired with navy blue, is preppy and adorable. I can picture running in Nantucket in these shorts!

If you are looking for shorts for hot yoga, everyday summer fun or a run by the beach, one  (or all) of these shorts and styles will fit your needs. Tell us what styles work best for you on facebook and twitter!

Five of My Favorite pieces:

1 Sol Swimwear Cleo One Piece

1. One pieces aren’t just to coverup anymore, they can be just as curve hugging and appealing as a bikini. The 1 Sol Swimwear Cleo Draped One Piece is a perfect example. The color, cut out and one shoulder accents makes this swimsuit very glamorous.

O’Neill Heavenly Triangle

2. I am loving this classic triangle bikini! The O’Neill Heavenly Triangle is adorable and small. Did you work your behind off this winter? Show it off in this blue and white striped bikini. Add a red head scarf or hat and you will have a festive beach look for July 4th!

Aerin Rose Shirred Ruffle Swim Skirt

3.  The Aerin Rose Shirred Ruffle Swim Skirt is a great way to switch up your typical two piece.  The tie dye coloring and the ruffle on the bottom is really fun. The skirt style is also great if you want to cover up just a little more.

Hapari Bikini Ruffle Top

4. I am obsessed with the Hapari Bikini Ruffle Top. Ruffles and details are especially flattering on a smaller chest but this top is also very supportive if needed. The scoop neck and adjustable ties make the Hapari top comfortable too. The ruffled top looks fabulous with all different types of bottoms so you can mix and match.

1 Sol Vivianne Bandeau with Matching Boy Brief

5. 1 Sol Vivianne Bandeau with Matching Boy Brief is a gorgeous and sexy bathing suit. I love any bathing suit with hardware and I love it even more since it is in a V shape. The Vivianne Bandeau and Boy Brief would be a great addition to your summer vacation or maybe a honeymoon.

What is your bathing suit style? Tell us on Twitter and Facebook!

Equilibrium Activewear Legging

I had the pleasure of speaking with Tatyane Martins who owns Equilibrium Activewear with her mother, Jane Martins. Jane founded the activewear line create a life of passion that gave her the flexibility to take care of her children. I am really inspired after hearing how Tatyane and Jane Martins established their company 17 years ago. You can feel the drive, passion and love they have for the clothing and family business.

Check out our interview below!

Equilibrium Activewear Buckle Top

Q:       What inspired you to create a line of activewear?

A: My mom has always been on the run  taking care of our family and also into fitness. She wanted to be able to wear something comfortable and fashionable that she could wear during the day, both at the gym and everyday life.

Q:       What are the fitness principles that you try to live by?

A: Its important to always enjoy exercise and change up your fitness routine. I am a big fan of spin, yoga and dance classes. Changing up your exercise keeps you happy and keeps you motivated. To me, fitness is not just about looking good but its also about feeling good.

Q:       What’s your current favorite piece in your line and why?

Bahama Blue Tie Dye Pant

A: My favorite item right now is the Bahama Blue Tie Dye Pant. Its extremely comfortable to wear and to go out in because of the fit, it gives you a lot of support and it looks amazing. I always where these pants when traveling because of how comfortable and supportive they are.

Q:      Have you directly inspired others to be more fit?  How?

The collection definitely inspires others to be fit by being so versatile. Equilibrium is fun and a great way to switch it up. People feel supported in the clothing due to the Supplex fabric. It hides cellulite and lifts your butt. Once customers try it on, they feel amazing and your motivated to look and feel better.

Tatyane also told me that Equilibrium Activewear is based off of Brazilian style. You can definitely see how you would be ready to take any fitness class or do your errands in Miami, which is where they are based. Make sure you check out Equilibrium Activewear for all of their new and exciting items!

Style Firm Swagger Capri

Interview with Marissa Mills:

Q.       What inspired you to create a line of activewear?

A: Lisa and I have event and fashion show production company together. At the gym, we noticed everyone in their black bottoms and it wasn’t doing  any justice to their behinds. We went downtown and bought high quality fabric to take to a tailor where we explained how we wanted the compression mesh boy short in a bootcut pant. The tailor then made a prototype and we couldn’t believe how fabulous it looked! In the Style Firm pants, we lost inches, are held up and in in all the right places.

From that point we hired a technical designer and an active model who was 40+ years old and a size six. We figured out that this is the magic pant! It is a heavier material than the typical yoga pant to mask cellulite and imperfections. Style Firm has a weight of 9.8 where most brands have a weight of 3.4. This also ensures that they are not see through.

The line is idea for women to wear to the gym, coffee the market and then drinks with girlfriends. It is a basic that you can live in.

Style Firm Absolute Boot Cut

Q:  Tell us about a time you were touched by a customer’s story.

A: Most customers order a bottom first. Once they wear it out, they start to get compliments such as “omg you look so great” “did you lose weight?” After the positive feedback and feeling great in the clothing, they buy all of the different style bottoms and jackets. Feeling great is such a powerful feeling. We feel great when get feedback from a customer who says I feel skinny in them and want all of the styles!

Style Firm Competitor Tight

Q: What are the fitness principles that you try to live by?

A: I am a huge Physique 57 fan. I think of it as my cult! It is an amazing group of women and a great community. Being in L.A. you can feel disconnected but with Physique 57,  I feel like I cannot start my day without it. I’m there 6 days a week and I feel the people there really care about each other.

Style Firm Modern Long Jacket

I love that Style Firm comes from a style and design background. I absolutely love the way Marissa was speaking about the clothing and how women should feel. Yes, they hide bumps and pull you in so your behind looks fabulous, but the goal is for you to feel even more comfortable in your skin and want to continue to be active. The positivity in the brand and the dedication to it, is one to be admired and shows in the high quality Style Firm clothing. The clothes are also made in the United States which is always a plus!

Style Firm Swagger Capri

Make sure you grab a pair of Style Firm’s amazing  firming, lifting  and tightening capris for spring!

At one point, we strapped on a blanket around our waists to see and feel how we would modify the poses. This was a great eye opener on how moms need to adjust their practice for their growing baby belly. The biggest surprise was how many poses were suitable and comfortable for the moms to be. Once cleared by a doctor, there are so many ways to stay active during pregnancy.

Fit2Bmom Flex Tank

The Fit2Bmom Maternity Flex Tank is really gorgeous. The scoop neck and fitted waist shows off moms bump while also adding the necessary support around the waist. The shirt is breathable and comes in Bluebird and Bright Rose.

Me2Roo Charlotte Pleated T-Back Top

If you are looking for something that is a bit looser, but still figure flattering, the Me2Roo Charlotte Pleated T-Back Top is perfect for your workout. The top has pleats at the top and a drawstring at the bottom for shape and comfort as moms belly grows. The T-back shown below is super comfortable and shows off the fun color combination.

Me2Roo Charlotte T-Back Top

Below is one of my favorite maternity pieces. I suggest rocking it out of the studio too. It is effortlessly cool and would be a great addition for a cozy savasasa or final resting pose.

Me2Roo Inez Cocoon Top

The Me2Roo Inez Cocoon Top is such a great way to add a comfortable layer but still have shape. The snaps adjust for how tight you would like the top to be and is also great for your expanding belly. It is hip length and is wider in the sleeves and the neck. The Inez Cocoon top looks great with a pop of color underneath.

If you are or have been pregnant, what are your favorite pieces to wear? Tell us on twitter and facebook!

Always consult with a physician before beginning any new exercise regimen.

As we talked about before, feeling good in your clothes helps you create better workouts. Now how can we take fitness to the next level? Well with a little help from the accessory department!

For the Yogi’s:

Prana Sara Scarf

When settling into your final resting pose, Savasana, it feels amazing to grab an extra layer to keep yourself warm while your body cools down. I love the Prana Sara Scarf. My personal favorite is the burnout purple color. The scarf is also the infinity style, which is so comfortable and cute. It comes in a fun blue, black and white.

For the Rock Climbers:

Prana Chalk Bag with Belt

When your palms start to perspire, stay dry and chic by reaching down into your Prana Chalk Bag with Belt. This bag comes in bright colors and is essential for rock climbing. If you are like me, you need all the help you can get reaching for the next rock.

For the Runners: 

As the runs get longer and the weather becomes warmer, its smart to have water and fuel along the way. The Fuel Belt Revenge Series R20 Bottle Belt in Artic Blue. The belt is made for single handed entry and exit due to the special molded holsters. The FuelBelt is also compatible to past FuelBelt bottles so if you want to upgrade your Belt, your old bottles will still fit! The new design is extremely lightweight and comes in one-size-fits-all and small through extra large.

For All Fitness Activities: 

Sweaty Bands compliment whatever exercise you are in the mood for today! The Sparkly Sweaty Band above, is one of my favorites. Why not sparkle while you sweat? They come in a ton of different colors, patterns and textures so if you aren’t a sparkly person, check out all of the Sweaty Bands to keep your hair in place with a band of style.

We would love to hear what your favorite fitness accessories are! Tell us on twitter and facebook!

Always consult with a physician before beginning any new exercise regimen.