by Bonny Osterhage

Yoga is more than exercise. It is state of mind and a way of life. It is all about breathing, movement and flexibility…things that are hard to focus on in tight, clingy clothing! That is why we have rounded up ten of the most comfortable, stylish and flattering yoga clothes that look as good on the town as they do in the yoga studio. Most are made from all organic materials, but some do have a hint of nylon or spandex for stretch. Regardless of the materials, yoga is a state of wellness and, for us, wellness is an important part of the life organic. Namaste.

Be Present

What began as a clothing line for yogis, has morphed into a modern collection of high-quality, comfortable clothes that are at home on the street or the mat. The seven charkas, symbolizing the body’s energy centers, are the main focus of this colorful collection. Show that you are present in a bright chakra, organic cotton, ribbed tank from the “earth-friendly” collection. It looks great when paired with the Bamboo Intention Pant, featuring a side slit and a fold- over waistband. www.bepresent.com

Bhakti Ware

When we saw the organic cotton batik and tye-dye prints from this line, we were hooked! While all of the designs and color combinations are beautiful, our favorite is the brown and turquoise leggings and tank from the Batik line. The leggings have a slightly flared leg and the tanks feature a built-in bra for added support. Check them out at www.bhaktiware.com.

Blue Canoe Organic

If something touches your skin, shouldn’t it be pure and non-toxic? Blue Canoe thinks so and offers an impressive selection of both fitted and relaxed organic cotton garments in soothing color palates. Highlights include the universally flattering square cut cami. The long and lean style features an inside bra liner. Looks great with the wide fold-over waist band pant.  Find your fashion at www.bluecanoe.com.

Doce Vida

The name translates to “the sweet life” in Portuguese and Doce Vida can certainly help make yours a little sweeter with yoga clothing designed for every woman, regardless of size or shape. The pieces are designed to reduce muscle vibration and fatigue, while wicking moisture away from the body. The seamless fit means no bunching or “riding up” and the strategically placed signature piping creates a slimming illusion. The vibrantly colorful, coordinating pieces also feature one of several different inspirational mantras that allow you to show your inner spirit. We would choose “adorable” to describe the “Copacabana Capri” with its stay-put bottom hem. www.docevidafitness.com

Gaiam

When Madonna told us to “strike a pose,” do you suppose she was inspired by yoga? We’ll never know for sure but the “Strike a Pose” organic cotton tee from Gaiam is certainly inspirational. Five dollars from the sale of every shirt goes to Dr.’s Without Borders. Philanthropy aside, we also love the Sophie top. Available in black or white, this is the top to throw over a cami for yoga class or pull the elasticized neckline down, pair it with some skinny jeans and hit the town. Make a difference at www.gaiam.com.

Hyde Yoga

Hyde Yoga is a line of graceful yoga clothing for both men and women. The 100 percent sweatshop free line is designed to flatter the body without being tight and the sizes are refreshingly generous. Available in many different styles and colors, the collection features shorts, leggings and drawstring pants along with tanks, hoodies and long-sleeved thermal tops. Our favorite is the oh-so-snuggly pancho made from organic cotton and featuring an elegantly rolled neck. Perfect for throwing on after class! Check it out at www.yogahyde.com

Inner Waves Organics

In our opinion, Maui is the next best thing to heaven. So it comes as no surprise to us that a wonderful collection of organic cotton yoga clothing comes from this beautiful island’s shores. Inner Waves yoga clothing is both durable and supremely comfortable. Designed for both men and women and available in many colors and styles, the only problem is choosing your favorite. We recommend the Nani Tunic with its slimming below-hip length and cap sleeves. Order your own at www.innerwavesorganics.com.

Jonäno

What could be more luxurious than cashmere? ecoKashmere®! Jonäno has created the ecoKashmere® yoga pant that, unlike real cashmere, never needs dry cleaning and, due to natural anti-bacterial properties found in bamboo, it kills odor causing germs. The pants are available in an assortment of colors (we are partial to the ice blue shade) and are made with a wide leg and relaxed fit for the ultimate in comfort and softness. www.jonäno.com

Lotus Blossom Style

“Transforming culture through clothing” is the motivation behind Lotus Blossom Style. The clothing depicts images and messages drawn from ancient Yoga and Tibetan Buddhist teachings. The images and words are designed to provoke thought in both the wearer and those who see her. The Goddess Collection tees are all organic cotton or bamboo and perfect to pair with yoga pants. www.lotusblossomstyle.com

Yoga Tribe and Culture

Designed for the “urban yogi,” the Yoga Tribe and Culture line injects a shot of modernism into ancient yoga concepts to create a look that is fresh and hip. We get a kick out of the “Live Passionately” design on the 100 percent organic Pima cotton rib tank. It features a skull and roses inspired by Los Dias de Los Muertos or “Day of the Dead” and reminds the wearer to celebrate life. Yoga Tribe and Culture celebrates life by giving back to the causes they support through the sale of limited edition designs. Discover your inner yogi at www.yogatribeandculture.com