So, you just bought a pair of leggings for $110.00. Does that mean they are worth $110.00?
How do you know they are actually a good pair of leggings? Like the old saying goes, "Don't let the name fool you".
As a designer I know the importance of brand image and brand loyalty. However, as a consumer I also insist on Brand Quality.
So here are a few tips to help you look yummy this summer the next time you shop for that perfect yoga outfit:
Check for loose stitching
Look at the hem on the garment. If the thread isn't laying flat on the fabric then this is an indicator the stitching is too loose. Now check the seams. Hold the garment in both hands with the seam between your thumbs. Pull gently apart to see if an abnormal amount of thread appears in the seam. How much is an abnormal amount of thread? If you see that the fabric is actually pulling away from each other then the stitching is too loose.
Now, turn the garment inside out and check the seams. There are two standards to putting a garment together - three thread and four thread construction. The three-thread construction will have a zigzag pattern along the edge of the fabric with a single stitch line running along the bottom. The four-stitch construction has an extra stitch line along the bottom. This is a safety stitch, which makes the seams stronger, therefore more durable, during exercise or strenuous activity. So the next time you're doing the downward dog you won't have to worry about Fabio trying to sneak a peak as you come apart at the seams.
Check the fabric content
When buying a basic cotton/lycra blend, the ideal ratio of cotton to lycra is 90% cotton/10% lycra - however the average is 92-8. This will insure the garment has good memory retention and will not lose its shape, so you'll always look your best. With high performance stretch fabrics the content varies depending on the type of fabric you are buying so a good test is to hold the garment in both hands, pull on the fabric and then release to see how well it returns back to its original shape.
Check the care instructions
Now that you've chosen a well-made garment, what's the best way to care for your garment? A lot of good companies will use breathable fabrics or "Dry Fits" as more commonly known, such as Supplex, Tacktel or Micro Lycra. What makes these and other fabrics breathable is a finish called an "Intera Finish". Using fabric softeners on these items will destroy the Intera finish and your garment will no longer be dry fit or breathable. So keep this in mind when washing your Dry Fits and Breathables.
These stretch fabrics are also made up of tiny elastic fibers. Most elastic will crack and break down with excessive heat, so to get the longest life from these fabrics refrain from using the dryer. Hanging them to dry will insure the longest life of your garment.
A great Alternative to dry fits are Eco Friendly Fabrics that breathe naturally and have amazing moisture-evaporating qualities. Blends of bamboo, tencil, silks and organic cottons not only pass with flying colours but are also sustainable natural fabrics produced using eco friendly methods.
They say knowledge is power and there is nothing sexier than a powerful Yummy Mummy!
Happy shopping!
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