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Eco Athleisure Ethos

by Jenna Mahoney

Image Credit: Photographer: Katie Jameson

A spotlight on hot, new—and tried-and-true—companies that are helping the planet

When Karl Lagerfeld, the haute creative director at Chanel, gives his favoring opinion on athleisure, the trend has officially moved into staying-put status.

Not only do we love being able to go from barre to work and the bar, without the necessity of an entire wardrobe change, we also love that so many of the coolest companies are also doing something to help the planet. Here, our top picks this season.

VYAYMA
Sure, the company’s mantra is eco and natural, but the foundation pieces of this new apparel line are better described as chic. Taking its name from the Sanskrit word, which means to tame the inner breath, Vyayama specializes in non-synthetic yoga wear. And pieces are made of a proprietary, plant-based, no-fade Tencel. The Kalablak tank is the line personified—a well-cut, body-conscious piece that can be paired with anything in your closet. vyayma.com

BEING APPAREL
Attention time- and style-starved mommas: this newborn clothing company is for you. Designed and created by a mother of a six year old, Being Apparel has a four-pronged approach to its earth-friendly pieces. Many are made from earth-friendly bamboo and Tencel and all are a-seasonal and universally flattering. The Kimono Sports Jacket made of 100 percent cotton can be belted a variety of ways to become appropriate for any occasion. beingapparel.com

MANDUKA
Sustainable mats and props are the bread and butter of this company by yogis for yogis and yoginis. And its apparel offerings for men and women enhance the give-back ethos of the Manduka mission.

Among the offerings made of organic cotton, recycled polyester, and plant-based dyes is The Uni, a full-body suit complete with a built-in bra, and the Pantaloons, drop-waisted pants that are a super comfortable and a stylish option for your air travel uniform. Manduka.com

MOUNTAIN KHAKIS
The performance apparel company Mountain Khakis has long sourced 100 percent organic cotton for its goods. Its newest partnership with the Renewable Workshop extends the green aspect even further with recycled garment materials. The men’s Indie Go Short Sleeve Shirt is the perfect comfy boyfriend T. Colored with pomegranate and indigo dyes, the super soft shirt gets better with age. mountainkhakis.com

NoMiNoU
Reduce, reuse and recycle is the mantra of this little leggings company, which is an ode to the founder’s “hippie mother”. All items are made of 100 percent recycled materials. The new Cindy pants, a kaleidoscopic blue printed pair perfect for yoga or indoor cycling, are made from old water bottles. The material is then treated with a patented anti-wicking and antibacterial finish called ChitoSanté made of shrimp and crab shells. Nomidesigns.ca

HAVEN
Sure you can stock up on yoga pants and other Bikram gear at this boutique eco-chic designer, but it’s the layering items that are perfect for any occasion. Made of a combo of sustainable materials, the made-in-the-USA Black Asymmetric top is super soft, super stylish, and—the best part—universally flattering. havencollectiveyoga.com

RAESWEAR
Made in the U.S., compression leggings for running, plus other styles for activities or simply lounging, are all equipped with a patented waistband for phone-holding. The storage pockets are also handy for hotel keys and slim wallets. Pants are a chafe-free, moisture-wicking blend of earth-friendly recycled polyester and spandex. raeswear.com

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