ATHLETIC STYLE

The New York Times Style section last week commented on San Francisco's unique neighborhood styles.  See  The Tribes of San Francisco.

One of the interesting things about that article was the emphasis on outdoor fitness in the West Coast as a Style symbol.  Truly, as an East Coast transplant to the West Coast, I see how naming your extreme outdoor sport is much cooler here than naming the latest gym class you go to!   Of course, the Pacific Coast is blessed with natural beauty for residents to hike, bike, and mountain climb.

from the Title 9 athletic wear catalog

For those of you who are serious outdoor athletes that want to look good doing your sport, I find that Athleta and Title 9 are very good sportswear catalogs.  Fabrics are performance material, yet the designs are chic enough to walk around town in.

Ice Climbing, from Athleta

For those of you who prefer to bike around the neighborhood in a dress, we can take a cue from Ellen Page in the photo below.  Just don't forget to wear a helmet.  A stylish equestrian helmet is better than nothing.

Ellen Page from dailyfashionandstyle.com 

STYLISHLY FIT

What makes some women so chic even when they've just got jeans and a t-shirt on?  Most likely, the answer is that they are physically fit.  It flows through to their confident posture and how clothes drape on them perfectly.

My stylishly fit friend on a hill

For many people's busy lives, going to the gym just doesn't make their daily to-do list.  But instead of being a to-do, fitness can be part of an active lifestyle.

The key is finding something you love to do.   Mentally, it should feel like taking a break.

• For several people I know, taking a walk, run or bike ride outdoors, even for a 1/2 hour, is a terrific way to de-stress and get fit.  
• Many moms push their strollers up hills (the added 20 lbs. is a terrific fat burner!) on nearby hiking trails.
• Doing power moves on the trails can add intensity to your walk.

Power moves

If you're not into nature trails:

• Instead of drinks or dinner, make appointments with friends for badminton or  tennis.  Team sports (beach volleyball!) for large groups!
• Try a new skill.  While my "sport" is ballet, martial arts provides very similar physical challenges and benefits.
• Yoga and Pilates have become trendy in the past decade.  One huge benefit I've noticed is that more Americans have better postures - from the East to the West Coasts!  

So find an activity you love and make it part of your life.

While you're at it, great-fitting workout clothes can be an incentive.  My friends and I swear by Lululemon Athletic gear (tell us when there's a sale!).  It truly makes everyone look leaner instantly - and they last forever!