What Not to Wear: Yoga Teachers

 

Not meant to be an example.

1. Cleavage. I don't mind a little cleavage peeking out of a flirty little black dress, but for yoga teachers this is a big no-no. As a teacher, your job is to help your student shift his focus internally. And that might be hard for him to do when your goods are on display.

2. Too Tight or Too Loose. See explanation with no-no Number 1. This is not the place to let it all hang out.

3. Body Hair. Some teachers can get away with this one.. Like men (which is SO not fair.) Or yoga teachers from foreign lands where shaving is not the cultural norm... But on the rest of us... body hair just looks kind of icky. If you don't feel like shaving your legs, please just choose full length pants over capris or shorts--especially if you know you give a lot of up-close-and-personal adjustments.

4. Funky Feet. I have been guilty of this one a time or two.. You don't have to have perfectly pedicured toes for every yoga class, but polish chipping off or thick calluses can be a distraction. Oh, and no toe nail fungus... EVER!

5. No Personality. I think one of the biggest fashion mistakes a yoga teacher can make is not letting their personalities speak through the way they look. A lot of teachers buy basic yoga pants and tops, and just throw them on and head to the studio. But if they had an office job, they might put a little more thought into their accessories. Don't let the yoga clothing companies dictate your style! Once you have enough basics think of creative little touches you can add to your look that lets your personality shine--scarves, jewelry, wraps, bags, and leg warmers will all make your look more interesting and unique in a totally appropriate way!

What is the worst fashion mistake you've ever seen a yoga teacher make?