We all know NIKE but do we really??!!

Many of us have heard the brand Nike. It has become an international brand. Almost all athletes wear Nike Activewear which includes clothes and shoes. Today I will give you more of an insight of this brand.  This brand was founded at the University of Oregon by track athlete Philip Knight and his coach Bill Bowerman in January 1964. At first it started as a main distributor for running shoes. Coach Bill Bowerman made the first running shoes for Phillip Knight and it is said that they were not comfortable at first. The company's first self-designed product was based on Bowerman's "waffle" design. Bowerman began experimenting with different potential outsoles that would grip the new urethane track more effectively. His efforts were rewarded one Sunday morning when he poured liquid urethane into his wife's waffle iron. Bowerman developed and refined the so-called "waffle" sole, which would evolve into the now-iconic Waffle Trainer in 1974.

 Bill Bowerman

First Nike Show

 Phillip Knight

By 1980, Nike had attained a 50% market share in the U.S. athletic shoe market, and the company went public in December of that year. Its growth was due largely to "word-of-foot" advertising (to quote a Nike print ad from the late 1970s), rather than television ads. Nike's first national television commercials ran in October 1982, during the broadcast of the New York Marathon . The ads were created by Portland-based advertising agency Wieden+Kennedy.

Together, Nike and Wieden+Kennedy have created many print and television advertisements, and Wieden+Kennedy remains Nike's primary ad agency. It was agency co-founder  coined the now-famous slogan "Just Do It" for a 1988 Nike ad campaign, which was chosen by Advertising Age as one of the top five ad slogans of the 20th century. This world wide known slogan has made Nike a success.

-Monica Melara

Russell Simmons likes Yoga???

I was browsing through WWD.com to see if I could find some juicy info going on in the Activewear industry and I came across an article titles: Russell Simmons to Launch Yoga Brand Tantris. I had no idea that Russell Simmons was into Yoga! So, of course I had to do some more research and apparently everyone else except me knew he has been practicing yoga for 20+ years!!  

Russell Simmons, photo by Scott Rudd

His current company, Russell Simmons Design Group, linked a multiyear licensing deal with Gaiia Enterprises Global Ltd. to develop Tantris. The lifestyle brand will include both women's and men's activewear, meditation beads, yoga mats, pillows, and scented candles. His plan is that once the collection is carried at 300-400 department stores, specialty stores, health clubs, and spas, he will then begin to open up his own Tantris stores, yoga studios, juice bars, and a Vegan restaurant! 

"I see yoga studios starting to grow, and yoga classes getting more crowded. I see yoga brands continuing to grow. I'm doing this because of my passion for yoga not because I am that kind of business guy."- Russell Simmons (to WWD)

According to the Sporting Goods Manufacturers' Association of America, about 25 million people in the US now practice yoga and has seen 25% gains in participation in recent years. Simmons opted for the word "Tantris" as opposed to the Sanskrit word "tantra" because "a lot of yogis don't like to see a sanskrit word used that way", Russell said. 

Simmons also plans on launching a third book, Mass Mantra on HSN before the end of September this year. He has about 1.47 million followers on twitter causing him to already have a captive audience. In order to spread the word even more about his brand and the power of yoga, Tantris-rubber bracelets with Russell's mantra "Smile and breathe" will be sold. We will begin to see the collection being sold by the end of this month at wholesale prices will range from $16-$59 for women's styles, and $22-$68 for the men's jackets. (not to shabby!)

Russell speaking at the Jivamukti Master Class

He will launch an e-commerce website in September for Tantris and plans on using some of the sales from the activewear towards scholarships to train aspiring yogis. Awesome! 

"Yoga is meant to relieve the noise. After doing yoga, I feel alive and awakened." Russell Simmons.

xo, Arlene Guerrero

Activewear History

Many of us wear activewear clothing and many of us appreciate it, but not a lot of us, including myself, really know when and where activewear came about. Activewear has advanced in terms of different fabrics, construction, and styles. In ancient times, people exercised in their street clothes. But those athletes that performed in the Olympics performed in the nude. Mainly because street clothes restrict movement.

 The first modern Olympics in 1896 involved mainly upper class athletes who wore very rudimentary clothing, similar to a union suit or a T-shirt and shorts for track and field events. This is where we first see activewear really start to develop. Later we see that women started to use white dresses to play tennis. 

Modesty was a huge issue still so women were not allowed to run or jog in shorts or pants, they had to still wear they’re long dresses. In 1922, Suzanne Lenglen competed at Wimbledon in a short tennis skirt. She also wore a headband to keep hair out of her face, rather than the customary hat. This was a huge gesture to new styles of activewear. 

During the 1900 men wore shirts and shorts for their basketball activities.

 Developments in science made new fabrics available. For example, nylon, first used by the military, began to be used in running shorts and wind-suits. These synthetic fibers made it easy to mass produce activewear items, and also to create clothing to meet the needs of the particular activity, such as concealed hoods and pockets, removable linings and water- and wind-resistant gear.

Today, activewear fashions continue to evolve. Activewear has become casual wear for many people, even for senior citizens who like the ease and comfort of warm-up suits and sweatshirts. New fabrics and styles continue to evolve for athletic wear.

Monica Melara

What to Wear When You're Breaking a Sweat!

 I think it's safe to say that a lot of us get bored with doing the same workout routine. Similar to changing our wardrobe, it's nice to spice up and change our workout regimens once in a while. Every sport, activity, or type of exercise requires certain types of clothing and gear to ensure comfort, and safety in some cases. Here are a few fun activities/sports with some tips on what you SHOULD and should NOT wear while you are breaking a sweat and burning those calories:

Bikram Yoga

This style of yoga is done in rooms that are as high as 105 degrees F and 40% humidity in order to detoxify sweat and heat up the body to help you get into yoga postures. This type of heat makes in necessary for you to wear clothing that will give you freedom of movement and the ability to wick away moisture. 

What to wear: Wear breathable cotton tops and shorts with some Spandex material so that it forms to your body. This can be either a form-fitting top with a shelf bra for support or a sports bra that fits comfortably and doesn't inch up. For bottoms you should WEAR SHORTS such as running shorts with comfortable waistbands, spandex/yoga/biking shorts that form to the body, or 3/4 length pants. All of these should be made from cotton, spandex, bamboo, propylene, or any other fabrics that wick away sweat.

What to avoid: DO NOT wear loose fitted clothing! Those are best if worn during your other yoga classes that don't require as much movement. Avoid wearing tights and sweats as well. This type of clothing can cause you to overheat.

Spinning

Spinning is an "indoor cycling" activity with classes that focuses on endurance, strength, intervals, high intensity, and recovery. The activity involves using a special stationary exercise bicycle with a weighted flywheel in a classroom setting. One 45 minute Spin class can burn up to 500 calories! Sign me up!!

What to wear: Since you will be sweating a great deal, clothing with moisture wicking properties and breathability is extremely important. Short-sleeved or sleeveless tops with technical fabrics are great. You should also wear form fitted biking or Spandex shorts that allow comfort during movement. It's also important that your shorts are long enough to prevent chaffing. If you decide that you are going to stick with it you can invest in some padded biking shorts! 

Wearing regular athletic shoes is perfect for beginners. Again, once you've become pro you can invest in some cycling shoes ;).

What not to wear: Do not wear loose fitted clothing, sweats, shorty shorts, or underwear underneath your bike shorts! Bike shorts are actually more sanitary than your underwear because they are designed and manufactured to fend off bacteria and wick away moisture. This can also cause chaffing or soreness.

Zumba

Zumba is an uplifting, extremely effective, easy-to-follow, Latin-inspired, calorie burning "fitness party"!  (who doesn't love to party??) This program blends hot international music that is created by Grammy winning producers and dance steps to form an addictive workout. Since its beginning in 2001, the Zumba program has become one of the worlds largest and most successful dance-fitness program in more than 125 countries!

What to wear: Comfortable clothing that allow movement and wick away moisture (ex. cool-max or dri-fit). Wear a good sports bra with great support! It's extremely important that you wear comfortable shoes with plenty of cushion and lateral support. Athletic shoes without tread such as Nike, Addidas, and Puma are usually preferable. Dance shoes also work. (the Zumba program sell their own shoes!) Bring a towel and water!

What not to wear: Running shoes or cross trainers due to too much tread and do not allow side-to-side movement.

Kickboxing

Kickboxing refers to a group of martial arts and stand-up combat sports based on kicking and punching, historically developed by karate. This activity is often practiced for general fitness, self-defense, or as a contact sport. It provides for an overall cardiovascular workout that aids in weight loss and tone! 

What to wear: Tops without restriction (preferably tank tops), supportive sports bra, and shorts or form fitted pants that hit above the ankle. What you wear on your feet depends on where you are training or taking your class. If you are in a gym you might be okay with your sneakers, but if you are working with a heavy bag you may want to be barefoot. If you are going to be punching a heavy bag you should also wear protective gloves. Again, fabrics with moisture wicking technology always work best :)

What not to wear: Constricting clothing, long sleeves, shorty shorts, pants that drag on the ground. Long pants can make it hard for you to complete kicks and short shorts can reveal a little too much! ;)

Water Aerobics

Performing strengthening exercises in shallow water allows you to target multiple muscle groups throughout the body. If you are looking for a low-impact workout with aerobic benefits, try abdominal water exercises to help slim you down! 

What to wear: A swimsuit that doesn't creep up your rear! The last thing you want is a wedgie! Most suits are made of a spandex/nylon blend, however you can also find polyester suits that work great for water aerobics. "Cross back" suits also work great because they provide flexibility and support. If you decide you are IN LOVE with your new workout in the water you think about investing in a "Chlorine proof" swim suit. Chlorine can wear out the material of your suit over time.  You should also wear either an old pair of running sneakers or aqua exercise shoes. The extra weight of your shoes will add more resistance to your workout. If you aren't a swimmer you might want to consider wearing a life-vest. Safety first!! ;)

What not to wear: You shouldn't wear a bikini or cotton clothing. 

Thanks for reading! Good luck to you on your new workout routines!! Spice it up!

xo,

Arlene Guerrero

Celebrity Activewear

Many celebrities have dedicated their time to venture out to try new things. Many have decided to do beauty products, different media products, but a lot of celebrities have decided to make their own clothing lines. Most of these fashion celebrities decide to take a higher end more fashion forward outlook for their line. There is an exception to this rule. Many athletes have made shoes with their famous names on them. Athletes have also have become the face of many athletic gear. 

Victoria Secret model Heidi Klum has decided to take on the challenge of starting her clothing line. What makes her clothing line distinct is that she might be the first fashion forward celebrity that will make an activewear line.

 She has teamed up with New Balance to start her new trendy active wear brand. 

Not only did she team up with NB she has also agreed to sell her line to Amazon.   

She said this about her clothing line, ““I’m proud to announce that I have designed a line of active wear for New Balance that will be sold exclusively on Amazon.  I could not think of an easier way to shop than from my bed on my laptop!  Our lives as mothers, wives, working women have become so much more than ever before.  Whether we are dropping the kids off at school, going out with friends, running errands, running to meetings or swinging by your favorite coffee shop in the morning, we all have one thing in common – we want to be stylish, comfortable and hip!”.

Her eagerness to start up her line has made it easy for mothers to shop while still attending their children. The clothing retails from $320 -$168. And most of her clothing is easy to wear and will give comfort. The lines varies from working out pants to shorts, she makes bras and work out tees and sweaters. She designs these garments so that they are still very trendy yet easily accessible. 

-Monica Melara

Sportswear Trends on the Runway!!

Hey fashion and sports lovers!! ;) I was looking up trends that are hot for Spring 2012 and to my great surprise I found that sportswear is HUGE this season! Designers such as Michael Kors, Nicole Miller, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Alexander Wang, Victoria Beckham, and more all incorporated the sporty trend into their lines for this Spring 2012 season. In my previous post I explained that currently it is so important for working Sports Fashionistas to have clothing with versatility. I also touched a little bit on how fashion forwardness is a current a key trend in sportswear. Here are some great examples that are representative of those two qualities found on the runway!:

Isabel Marant and Kenzo Spring 2012

Proenza Schouler & Altruzzara Spring 2012

I love both of these dresses because of the feminine and masculine qualities that they have.  Super sporty with the "wetsuit" inspired shapes and very feminine with the floral prints. Great for Spring time :) 

Victoria Beckham Spring 2012

Sport this on your way to the gym or with a pair of jeans or leggings for a weekend look!

Akris Spring 2012
Such a great punch of green. This is definitely for those of you who want to stand out in the crowd!

Nicole Miller Spring 2012

This is one of my favorite looks because it is the epitome of sportswear trends today. This is such a versatile look, the colors are bright and fun which is perfect for spring, and its definitely unique and fashion forward. 

Michael Kors Spring 2012

I love this sporty swimsuit wit the belt around it. Again, very versatile (this would look great with a high waisted maxi skirt in my opinion ;) ) with a really fun and trendy leopard print. Spring break suit??

Alexander Wang Spring 2012

I love these two looks. I would love to rock the jacket on the left either on my way to the gym or as a casual look on the weekend. The ensemble on the right is motorcycle inspired and super bad a$$ ;)

Hope you enjoyed :)
xo,
Arlene G.

On a Budget?? No Problem!!

Many trends this season has caused many to want to buy new innovative sports attire. Although many of this trends are great, many women might want the look but might have a had time with their budget. We all know that sports attire can be very expensive and can really hurt your budget. We have come two places and prices that have trendy sports attire but that won’t  break your wallet. 

       
            The first place you would want to start is Forever 21. Their sports attire is named under the category “Active wear”. To start off they have very trendy sports bars that carry some trendy patterns and that are made in bright spring colors, which are very popular this season. They also have very cute tops that range from animal print to solid colors. And lastly they carry capris or shorts to work out in. They vary from length, color, and design. The prices are very moderate the start at five dollars to 20 dollars. This provides you to spend less yet you’re able to have more outfits.

              The second place is Target. Like Forever 21 they have sports bras that provide the trend but not only the look but the performance. Some of the sports bras have more padding and support. They also carry bottoms that have the same different trends but yet perform better than the ones sold at Forever 21. The ones at Target provide water resistance. So that way you won’t spoil your clothes while having an intense work out. The price ranges from 10 dollars to 45 dollars. The price point is much higher for those products that provide a higher performance and quality. 

          Being on a budget doesn't have to be so hard. There are many retail stores that offer trendy and cute sports attire at a reasonable price. This pieces can be combined and can provide you with a large selection of activewear for your closet. -Monica Melara 

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