Fitness Swellness: Atelier LOLË Yorkville

I’m a strong believer that working out in fitness gear that you look and feel good in is motivating. Cute outfits are powerful–I bet on some days, a great fitness outfit can play a role in whether you do your workout or not. I’m pretty good at sticking to my marathon-training schedule, but on the days my favourite pieces are in the laundry and I have to wear some bland, shapeless top I got from a race (most race tops are not very flattering or stylish, right?), I just don’t step out and pound that pavement feeling my best.

If you’re seeking cute fit gear, LOLË Yorkville is a cheerful little boutique where you can find pieces in fun prints (and solids, too) with flattering details,  but, of course, with your athletic needs in mind (sweat-wicking fabrics, venting where you need venting, flat seams so you don’t risk chafing, etc.). I’m partial to the running gear (since that’s my main form of fitness) and I love that designer Andy Thê-Anh is a runner himself, so we of course always chat halfs and marathons when I see him at the media previews. But there is a lovely assortment of yoga, lifestyle and some swimwear, too. In fact, what I’m currently coveting are cashmere pieces from from the White by LOLË — although I’d probably wear them more for lounging than sun salutations…

In addition to gear, the shop is a fitness hub where you can take part in yoga classes or run clubs. The run clubs are held in the spring and summer, and yoga meet-ups take place once or twice a week in the store (and occasionally are held in studios for specialized classes such as reformer Pilates). You can get more details on the run clubs and yoga on the Atelier Lole Yorkville Facebook page.

Oh, and if you’re peckish and in need of some fuel when you pop in, there are complimentary beverages and bars available, too.  There’s no need to shop hangry!

Atelier LOLË Yorkville, 88 Yorkville Ave., Toronto, www.lolewomen.com

2 Comments November 5, 2014

Beauty Swellness: It’s Beautylicious time again in Bloor-Yorkville

It’s that time of year again — Bloor-Yorkville’s Beautylicious is taking place October 23 until November 2, 2014. Not familiar with it? More than 60 spas, salons, skin, health and wellness businesses in  the Bloor-Yorkville hood take part and during the event, you can book treatments at prix fix prices (at $30, $50, $75 or $125).

I got to test out (again) one of my faves in advance of Beautylicious — the facial at Pure + Simple. I swear it is one of the most relaxing facials I’ve ever had — try to see Shari Hodgins if you go, she can work some magic with your skin (I left with a glowing complexion and even though my stress is at an all-time high, I was able to relax and let go of some of the anxiety I have about the Chicago Marathon I ran on Sunday). Above are the products she used on my skin (my masque was a combination of three masques to help prepare my skin to take on the colder weather here for the fall season), but the skin experts at Pure + Simple will customize according to your skin’s needs, obvi.

I’d get booking if I were you — I’m sure appointments for treatments such as the facial at Pure + Simple and mud facials, enzyme facial treatments, and haircuts and more in the hood’s top beauty spots are filling up fast.

Beautylicious runs Oct. 23 to Nov. 2. You can find more details on the business and services available during the event here.

Leave a Comment October 15, 2014