During a class I attended at the Yoga Loft in Naples, Florida, rather than focusing in my downward dog, I noticed the other students were all wearing eye-catching leggings patterned with lightning bolts, seashells, palm trees, snowflakes, and botanical print leggings. I saw flashes of a dazzling Eiffel Tower up one yogini’s legs and a corner of a golden pharaoh’s head piece on the thigh of another.In my black pants and tank, I was an ink spot in a pool of color and images. It altered my perspective on somber black. That was a few years ago and I haven’t practiced in black leggings since.
Admittedly, black is my go-to in everyday wear and it is hip and easy. But why choose the stoic color when we can express our individual style through roses, skyscrapers, desertscapes, and psychedelic patterns. It appears that other yoga consumers are tired of the lack of choice as well. This year, Lululemon’s sales nose-dived because they didn’t incorporate enough color and design in their apparel line.
It used to be difficult to find these unique leggings except at yoga studio boutiques. Now they’re sold on online and with the mainstreaming of yoga and all things yoga, the quality, material, selection, and designs are even better. The couple of pairs I recently bought have improved styling and construction, thicker durable fabric, and wider waist bands.
There are so many great yoga apparel companies out there now. Below are four of my favorite. Each has a different style and vibe, but all are similar in careful sourcing of fabric, creating cool designs, and quality stitching. As you can imagine, the hardest part is choosing which pair to buy.
Onzie – My first pair of patterned leggings were from Onzie. I’ve worn them religiously for a couple of years and they’re held together well. The company has grown and offer a wide assortment to choose from. Not only do they have unique patterns, but incorporate different fabrics like very hip mesh “bondage” leggings.
Zara Terez – Most of my leggings are from Zara Terez. I love their carnival colors and beach boardwalk-themed designs. The material is substantial and the waist band stays where it should.
Eagle Rock Werkshop –Crawling tentacles, a school of piranhas, a panda munching on bamboo, or an octopus are a few of the illustrations available on Werkshop’s unique leggings. These original Make a statement wearing yoga leggings with an illustration of . Using original drawings and graphics, Werkshop has an eclectic selection
Love ZuVi – Expect a shower of compliments wearing these hippy-infused leggings. The psychedelic imaged collection is small, but great attention to details like moisture wicking fabric and flat seams. Best of all their mission is focused on the environment. ZuVi apparel is made from recycled plastic bottles!
