When I find something I like, I tend to stick with it. I’ve used the same brand of pen for nearly 20 years (Pilot, in case you’re wondering), and I’ve owned a Ford for at least 18 years. Clothing, on the other hand, is something I’m a little more fickle about. If it fits and it’s comfortable, I’ll wear it. However, there is one brand, and a top in particular, that I would wear every day if I could.
While designed with yoga and sports in mind, Athleta apparel is super comfortable and can really be worn for so much more than sports. I have one Athleta top that I call my “touring top.” I wear it everywhere! To the beach, theme parks, dressed up and out to dinner and just about anywhere else you can think of. I believe this style is called “Magnolia.” It is from a few years back. Sadly, Athleta doesn’t carry it anymore. I really wish I had bought every color.
Dressed up in front of Pinta and Nina replicas on the James River – Richmond, Virginia.
The absolute best thing about this top is the shelf bra. Okay, I like other aspects about it as well, like the neckline and tie-behind-the-neck straps, but I really like that I don’t have to wear a bra. Don’t laugh. I know you’re thinking the same thing. Unless you’re a guy. Well, actually, if you’re a guy, you probably don’t want to wear a bra either.
Anyhoooo….I spend a lot of time outdoors, either at the beach, boardwalk or in theme parks. The fabric is nice and breathable for walking around in the hot Florida sun and standing in line at theme park queues. It’s also really nice for going out to dinner in the evening, after you’ve been sunburned and sweaty all day at the beach. I don’t think I would wear this to swim in, but you probably could. It’s similar to swimwear fabric, but a bit heavier in a mix of polyester and spandex.
Keeping it casual at Epcot.
I did manage to snag it in purple, but the red is my favorite.
Color-coordinated in purple at Epcot.
Cool an comfy at the Wright Brothers National Memorial. This top has been everywhere!
This isn’t the greatest picture, but you can get an idea of the back of the top. Ever try taking a pic of your own back? It’s not easy.
Back view.
The Jaya tank goes with anything.
The Jaya tank, pictured above, is from summer of 2012. It might still be available. It is one of the softest dressy tanks I’ve ever worn. And…..no bra!
I recommend going a size up from your normal clothing size, especially if you don’t like things that fit too snugly. Athleta is designed for yoga and athletic events where you want things to “stay in place.” Those downward dogs can be a little too showy if you know what I mean. I went with a large and it fits fine. I would normally wear a medium.
I was really excited to find out that an Athleta store is coming to the Richmond, Virginia area, at Short Pump Town Center. It opens sometime around mid-October. I will probably be a frequent customer. I’ve relied on the mail order catalog up until now so it will be nice to be able to see and try on stuff before purchasing.
Athleta offers fashionable apparel for travel and sports such as yoga, swimming, paddling, hiking, running. Athleta partners with Girls on the Run, whose mission is to empower young girls to be happy, healthy and confident through running.
I’m also fond of the company’s tagline … Athleta, Power to the She. Check out Athleta online.
