New Stuff On-Line - Some Pretty Additions & Showing Love for The 14s + Random Thoughts

Lululemon added some pretty new jackets to their website tonight.  The Run:Spirit Pullover in Fruity Tootie is really cute. They also added a version in Power Purple, but a little glowing purple goes a long way so this is my pick (plus I'm a sucker for a hot pink):

I've tried the Spirit on and really liked it. Unfortunately, Southern California just doesn't get that cold and I'm not a runner otherwise I would get one. I have a really pretty ombre razzmatazz/orchid Trail Tech I got last year that is just perfect for cool weather walks. Too bad all the Trail Techs this year are so dull. Here's a photo of mine:

 

 Run: Spirit Pullover Features

• The perfect thermal midlayer for winter running
• Wicking tech fleece has high-loft backing for added warmth
• Off-set zipper keeps abrasion away from your face when zipped up
• Tight scuba-shaped hood to keep wind out
• Set your ponytail free from your hood!
• Cuffins with thumbhole for cold fingers!
• Secure back pocket for your belongings
• Long length hem that won't ride up or stretch out
• Reflective for 360° of visibility
• Chafe resistant - flat seams
• $118

For apres ski, Lululemon just added the cutest pullover - the  Fuzzy Fleece Pullover. The view from the back is the best.

Product Features:

• Super soft fleece pullover for winter après activities
• Double sided brushed micro fleece with anti-pilling finish
• Shaped oversized hood with snap closure to keep you cozy
• Long length hem to cover your bum
• Layer over fitted fleece pants or tights
• Thumbholes to keep your sleeves down for added warmth!
• $99 

Showing Love For the 14s

I see Lululemon is adding more and more pants and crops in size 14. Thank you!!!  I bought a pair of Groove Down pants in a 14 this summer so I am wondering if they secretly make 14s in the Grooves and just slip them into the stores.  I notice the new Reverse Groove shorts they added tonight also come in 14. C'mon Lululemon add some Groove pants in 14. Nothing fancy, I'd be happy with just a black and white reverse.

Other Random Thoughts:

I liked what I saw in photos of the new Run:Track and Field Jacket but that was before I knew the price was $148. That's just too rich for my blood for a glorified windbreaker. I'll be watching for you on the sale rack.

Some photos to illustrate the difference between the Remix Lulul Hoodie and the Remix Light Lulu Hoodie:

The Light is just so much more attractive in the longer length and the way that it hugs your curves. I really don't care for the boxiness and short length of the regular Remix.

More Love for the Classy Classic Gym Bag - Recalling My Barbie Doll Days

The Classsy Classic gym bag really speaks to me. Maybe because it comes in Barbie Doll colors like pink and purple. I dunno, but I think I want one.

More Love for the Batwing Tee

The more I see the Freedom Batwing Tee in photos on various educators the more I like it. It comes in Charcoal and Black in addition to Fruity Tootie. I think I need to visit my store this weekend.

Run: Track and Field Jacket and Pant - Nice!

There is a matching jacket to the Run: Track and Field Pant. It looks promising. I'll have to check it out when it hits my store. On the other hand,not loving the stripes on the leg on the bright blue version of the pants. Both come in a solid black.

Competition Jacket - Stripes. Ho Hum.

This is the new Competition Jacket. Based on the photos I have seen, it doesn't do much for me. It looks rather boxy on these girls and I do not like the stripes. All in all, it is very generic looking and not at all head-turning which is what I require if I am to pay $100+ for a jacket. It also seems to pooch out in the belly where the pockets are on nearly every photo I've seen it in. I wonder if it's made to go with the Rock Out pant which has stripes up the inside of the leg. However, I do like the longer length and it does come in solid black. I'll have to see what it looks like in real life but as of now I am underwhelmed. Next.

Stir Up Pant in Real Life - Not Bad, Except for the Stirrups

Just for laughs, I tried the Stir Up pant on this weekend. It was not nearly as ugly as I thought it would be. And, not nearly as ugly as it is on the website as the photo above shows. The pleats don't look that bad at all and I might even consider buying a pair except for the fugly stirrups at the bottom that bunch up the pant at the cuff. The pants run really long. I wonder if you can have the stupid stirrups cut off and have the pants hemmed in a normal way? They would actually look nice with a straight leg.

Cozy Up - Garish in Person

A lot of people ooo-ing and ahhh-ing on the Facebook sites for these two versions of the Cozy Up Jacket. However, in person the colors are much brighter and the black printed areas look rather garish. I did not like them AT ALL. They photograph a lot cuter than they are in real life. Don't say I didn't warn you.

Update - Changed out the photos that illustrate my point better. The jackets in these photos look more like they do in real life - very bright and ugly.

Lululemon "Featured" In.....Wait for it...... Playboy Yoga!!!

I don't know how long she stays in her clothes, but on the front page, the model is sporting Lululemon apparel. Too funny. Thanks to YogaDork website for this find.

Product Alert - Run: Track N Field Pant - Want A Pair!

These look very promising - I must try them on.


Product Info:

• Everyday low-rise track pant for warm ups, cool down, and light activity
• Made of quick drying swift fabric with DWR finish
• Anti-static & anti-stink Silverescent lining
• Front pockets for cold hands
• Zippered ankle to help fit over your running shoes
• Rib hem keeps your pants from dragging under your shoes
• Articulated knees
• Wide elastic waistband with external drawcord for support

Freedom Batwing Tee - Product Alert

The Freedom Batwing Tee made a splash when it hit the Lululemon Facebook sites. It looks like it has hit my local stores, too. I'll have to try it on.

Product Info:

• Don't you love me? I look great in the yoga studio…and pretty hot around town too!
• Made of pima, a superior blend of cotton with extra long fibres that provides durability
• Loose up top and tight on your booty to show off that hard work!
• Chafe resistant flat seams for comfort
• Preshrunk so there are no surprises when you wash me!

Lululemon on Cougar Town

Cougar Town is one of my favorite new shows and here is a publicity photo from an upcoming episode. I know the jacket Barb is wearing isn't Lululemon (Hard Tail or Green Dragon, maybe?) but the top underneath definitely looks like a Scoop Neck tank in Antidote/Heathered Charcoal. The bottoms she has on are the Gather Tight in Heathered Charcoal. Those bottoms look cool, I'll have to see if my store still has them since they came out at the beginning of September. The whole look is really neat, I would have never thought of pairing that top with those bottoms.

Gather Tight Product Info:

• Spectacular, cover your bum, never want to take' em off tight!
• Cinchable waistband and leg allow for max customization
• Gusset designed 4 sport
• Naturally Breathable
• Enjoy the pairing of organic cotton and lycra - natural softness and athletic performance
• Certified organically grown cotton was used to make this garment
• Chafe resistant - flat seamed

Wunder Under Crop Organic - Me Likee!

I tried on some Organic Wunder Under Crops this weekend and I really liked them. I found them soft and comfortable. I see they are only available on the Canadian website but since they showed up in my product alerts they are available here in the US through the GEC phone sales.

Since I prefer a workout pant leg with a slight flare like the Groove Crops I don't own a pair of Wunder Unders. However, I would definitely consider a pair of Wunder Under Organic crops for street or lounge wear. If you are thinking of getting organic Wunder Unders for exercise you should consider that the organic material does not wick perspiration away nearly as well as luon. Also, lululemon's organic clothes tend not to come in a solid black so if butt sweat is an issue for you, you won't be able to hide it in the Organic Wunder Unders.

Product Features from the Hang Tag:

• A tight ideal for any practice!
• Enjoy the pairing of organic cotton and Lycra® - natural softness and athletic performance
• Certified organically grown cotton was used to make this garment
• Smooth elastic waistband that helps eliminate waist "bulges"
• Hidden waistband pocket for $ & keys
• Preshrunk
• Chafe resistant - flat seamed

Feel Good Pant - Total Comfort Clothes

I initially thought the Feel Good pants looked like overpriced ordinary sweatpants when they hit the web. However, I have been reading rave reviews about them on Lululemon's Facebook Site so I decided to try them on today. I have to say, I am a convert to their awesomeness. They are so wonderfully soft and comfortable they could be pajamas. I can easily see myself spending all day in them and a Remix lulu light, just bathing in softness.

I tried on the Static shown above and the Black. I thought the Static were a little softer and ran slightly bigger. On the web they are available from sizes 2-14.

As the description says, they do have a skimming fit so if you are pushing the limit of your luon pants 4-way stretch you might want to size up for a looser fit.

Product Features:

• A sassy sweatpant with a skimming fit for your warm up, running around town or those long travel days
• A low rise pant with a smooth waist for comfort
• Our own blend of cotton FRENCH TERRY has stretch so it won't bag out!
• Chafe resistant flat seams
• Preshrunk so there are no surprises when you wash me!

Cool Racerback - A Great Basic!

Today I went to Lululemon determined to buy a top in the new Power Purple color. My stores had Power Ys, Swift Tanks, Hot Set Tanks, and Scoop Neck Tanks in Power Purple but I ended up getting a Power Purple Cool Racerback. I don't know why I have waited so long to buy this tank. It is a great basic and perfect for larger chested ladies since it fits on the big side and you can wear your own bra underneath it. In addition to being loose fitting, yet flatteringly cut, it is long and made of light luon which makes it very cool for intense aerobic activities. I cannot wait to wear it to the gym tomorrow.

One of the great things about this top is that it is available in a beautiful rainbow of colors. I know the educators in my stores love to wear them layered. The top photo shows the tank in Raspberry which is just beautiful in person. I must get a top in this color, too! The other photos show Jellybean purple and Jazzberry pink. These colors might only be available in Canada since I haven't seen them here yet. However, I hope the Jazzberry makes it across the border because it's super cute.

PS - Be sure to wear a Flow Y or similar bra underneath the Cool Racerback. A Deep V shows too much in front and ruins the whole line of the scoop neck.

PPS - For those who are petite and feel this top is too long, Lululemon will also hem tops for you free of charge.

Product Features:

• A must have for all your sweaty activities
• Wear with the Flow Y Bra II for no visible bra straps
• Made with luon light, our signature fabric's little sister
• Chafe resistant flat seams

Try On Review: Cozy Up Jacket - Better Size Up!!!

I just got back from the Lululemon store where I tried on the new Cozy Up Jacket in solid black. If you are thinking of getting this jacket, you had better size up at least one size, if not two if you want to wear anything underneath it more substantial than a wafer thin tee or have a large chest. I could barely zip up the solid black Cozy Up I tried on in my normal size. It fits tight through the tummy and chest. Also, unlike the Remix Hoodie there is no give in the ribbed material at the bottom of this jacket. This jacket looks very similar to the Remix Hoodie except it doesn't have a hood - it's made of the same stiff, heavy cotton fleece. It runs very short in the torso, maybe even shorter than the Remix. I like the style but if I had to choose between it and the Remix, I would probably get a Remix.

Product Features from the Hang Tag:
It will keep you warm and toasty as you go from a steamy studio to the cool outdoors.
2. This Cozy is made from preshrunk COTTON FLEECE that you will never want to take off.
3. It has functional pockets for all your necessities.
4. The thumbholes help to keep sleeves in place.
5. It has chafe resistant flat seams.

Lululemon Website Sporting Curvier Model - Yay!

Finally, a model with boobs! Yay!

PS - Lululemon - aren't your model's pants a size too large? According to Lululemon's own fit check on Groove pants, fabric bunching in the front is a sign of a pants that are too large.

Hot Set Tank - Stealth Feature Revealed

I didn't look over the Hot Set Tank that well when I tried it on. The gathers in between the bust can be adjusted as seen in the photo above. A flat bandeau top is hard for a lot of people to pull off but adding a few gathers in the bust might just make it that more attractive. I'll have to try it on again because I just love this top, especially in power purple.

Why doesn't Lululemon do a better job of documenting all the features on its clothes on it's website? Besides this tank, the only way you know the Relaxed Fit pant has an adjustable leg is by reading the Facebook site.

Freedom Batwing Tee - Want It!

Not much on this top other than it's called the Freedom Batwing Tee and it's available in some stores. I would love a black one.

Classic Bra - Better Photo

I found a better photo of the Classic Bra I tried on a couple of weeks ago on the Facebook Site for the Yorkdale Store. If you are interested you can always call the Guest Education Center phone line and order it directly. This is a great bra for those who like the Flow Y but need extra support. It defininitely fills a need in Lululemon's bra line - a racerback with clean, simple lines you can layer underneath tops that offers decent support to us bustier ladies. It is on my short list of bras to get. It is available in white.

Features:

Classic Bra

- Medium support bra designed for the girl looking for an all around activity bra
- Made form luon our signature fabric
- Removable cups to customize your support
- Wider straps for maximum weight distribution
- Bra racerback fits perfectly under the cool racerback tank
- Chafe resistant flat seams
- Soft brushed bra elastic for added comfort

Crossfit Duffel in Patent Raspberry - Lust!!!!

I just got back from the Lululemon store where I picked up another Remix Lulu Light hoodie in the Dark Classic Sports Gray (DCSG - I wrote about it below. I also saw a Heathered Fox (HFOX) brown - very pretty). I spotted this gorgeous gym bag hanging on the wall. It's the Crossift Duffel in patent leather Raspberry. I am a fiend for pink and this bag is beautiful in real life, a real standout. I love Lululemon gym bags and have an older Elite gym bag that is awesome. This bag is very roomy with lots of pockets for your stuff and made of durable vinyl. Lululemon put an informative note about this bag with lots of photos on their Facebook site. If you are in the market for a bag, take a look at this one.


Features:

• From the gym to the office and to your yoga class - this bag carries it all!
• Keep your shoes and sweaty gear in the removable, water resistant, washable pouch!
• Carry your yoga mat through the back straps
• Interior pockets for your Blackberry, iPod, makeup, reusable shopper and more!
• Easy access exterior pockets hold your quick grab stuff during your commute
• Holds a 15" laptop.
• Removable shoulder strap for multiple carrying options.
• Water resistant liner wipes clean easily.
• Tested to hold 50 lbs.
• 16"x13"x8" (33L)
• $88
  

Whisper Tank - Where Have You Gone?

The iconic Lululemon Whisper Tank has been M.I.A. for the past couple of seasons. I hope it makes a return for the upcoming winter season. It is a great tank for when the weather is cooler and you can't face a chilly gym or studio in a skimpy open back tank. Additionally, if you like to lift weights picking up an MRSA skin infection from the benches can be a concern. This tank keeps you covered in a stylish and flattering way.

Two of my favorite variations of the Whisper are pictured above. The first is the Whisper Tank II from a couple of years ago. It has a mesh back and a mesh insert in the front so you don't flaunt too much cleavage (can be a problem with the regular Whisper and bustier ladies). The bottom tank is the Zip UR Whisper which is currently only sold in Canada. It has a zipper front which is awesome to control cooling and exposure. I bought mine off eBay but I hope Lululemon starts selling it here.

Both the tanks pictured above have beautiful, feminine prints. I really hope to see a return of some pretty prints this winter season.

Lululemon in Real Life - Scoop Neck and Wrap Around

Here is a busty educator in the Scoop Neck Tank and Wrap Around Tank. I think she looks fantastic in both.

Building a Lululemon Wardrobe , Part 3 - Everything Else

A reader asked me to comment on my favorite Lululemon items to help her decide what to get. Parts 1 & 2 covered Crops and Tanks. This will cover everything else. Feel free to chime in with your favorites.

I'm going to assume the reader is buying Lululemon because she wants to sweat and look good while she does it.

Pants:

Based on what is available on the website there is really only one choice for workout pants - the Groove Pant. I've read comments that people prefer the double ring of color pants over the single ring. I think this is because the rings act like Spanx and help hold your tummy in. I have a couple pairs and really like them. I have the ones in the above photo. That is really the only pant I can recommend. I mostly work out in crops but when it gets cold I like my Grooves. I also have a pair of the original Extend pants and Yoga pants but they don't make those anymore so I can only recommend the Grooves.

For knocking around town, I live in my Still Pants. I have both the Still and Be Still in luon. I like both equally.

Bras:

I have a bunch of Flow Ys that I layer under my low support, strappy tops. I am large chested so the Flow Y doesn't offer that much support by itself. However, in the low support tanks, it helps get me to level of support I need. I also have a bunch of Deep Vs. These are more supportive but they really show underneath the strappy tops. I've tried on the Ta Ta Tamer but they don't make it big enough for me. I think Lululemon's band and cup sizing is a bit on the small side so when I need max support I use my Donna Karan underwire sport bra. On me, the TaTa Tamer creates a boob shelf that resides right under my chin and I prefer my breasts to look more natural. I reviewed the Donna Karan a few months ago. I love this bra.

Jackets:

For a technical jacket to sweat in, I like my Shape Jacket and it's replacement the Define Jacket. I just bought a Remix Hoodie Light. I have a few others I like that have been discountinued: the Yohari, Sanctuary, Pulse Wrap, Origami, and Sportif running jacket.

Shorts:

I have four pairs of Relaxed Fit Shorts. I think the Knockout Shorts are the updated version of these. I also have a couple of pairs of Still Shorts which are my run around town shorts.

Misc:

I love my Lululemon Gym Bags. They have tons of pockets and are very roomy. The Essentail Gym Bag is on sale and is a deal.

Building a Lululemon Wardrobe, Part 2 - Tanks

Based on the colors and styles available on the Lululemon website right now, and not knowing how you are built - whether you are large or small chested, have armpit fat issues, etc. I would recommend either the Scoop Neck or Athletic Deep V tanks if you are just starting to build a Lululemon wardrobe.

They are both signature Lululemon designs that deliver function, fashion, and a flattering fit regardless of your body type. They both are supportive with wide straps and open backs that leave your shoulders free. Both bell out a bit at the bottom for a forgiving fit. If you don't want to flash much cleavage, then I would recommend the Scoop Neck. However, the Athletic Deep V has a few nice features such as a mesh back for cooling and a pocket in the back that is big enough to fit an iPhone.

If I had to choose one, I'd probably choose the Scoop Neck because I prefer the racerback to the straps of the Deep V and I don't have to worry about flashing too much cleavage in it.

Other Runner Ups:

Wrap Around Tank. The only thing that prohibits me from recommending this is that it is made of organic cotton which doesn't breathe and certainly doesn't wick moisture like luon. I love the look and fit of the Wrap Around but for heavy duty workouts, I prefer a technical fabric.

I also like the Swift Tank but it is made of luxtreme which is great for wicking but the luxtreme will show every bulge and ripple in your tummy. Luon is a lot more forgiving and hides a lot more. It is also heading into fall and winter and I consider luxtreme more of a hot weather fabric since it is so lightweight. I also found this top to be more of a low-medium support top rather than the max hold they claim. Also, luxtreme can snag so you have to be careful of it.

Another tank I like is the Free Ya Tank. I think it is a very pretty tank but the thin straps, low front, and really low back can make you self conscious of how much skin you are showing.

If you are looking for a technical tee shirt to work out in, I like the Run Swiftly Tech tee.