May is the Month of Beach & Sun

May is the Month of Beach & Sun at Outdoormountainspirit.com.  That said, there has been no “beach going” or even any sun to speak of in Colorado.  In fact, it snowed here in Steamboat yesterday and this morning I had to scrape ice off my car before going to the gym.  What is that all about?!

It makes us long for days when you can feel the hot sun baking your skin and there is not a single cloud in the sky.  Those are the days when weather isn’t keeping you inside, but it is the main motivator for getting you outside and active.  Long runs on dry trails, girls mountain bike rides filled with sweat and laughs, swimming at the local watering hole, road biking until you can no longer feel your bum because the ride is just too beautiful to ignore…and so much more.

Hopefully we can provide you with plenty of inspiration for your Beach & Sun adventures that are on the horizon.   And if it isn’t already, may the sun soon kiss your tanned skin and makes you smile from the inside out.

MAY IS THE MONTH OF BEACH & SUN!
OMS ON PINTEREST: Surf/SUP/Swim!

Stay Connected with Outdoormountainspirit.com!

Super Mom

How can you seamlessly balance work, private time, fitness, family, meals, dishes, laundry and everyone else’s activities day in and day out?  Well, sometimes feeling like a great mom can seem like an impossible feat.  And it can be really easy to compare yourself to other moms who seemingly manage everything with ease.  Moms can be extremely critical of themselves, which is why days like Mother’s Day are so important to celebrate Moms around the world who selflessly give of themselves to make their children and their family feel special and supported.  Whether you have chosen to buy Mom flowers, make her breakfast, buy or make her a card or pamper all day long, know that your minor or major sentiment will be carried in your Mother’s heart for years to come.

In celebration of Mother’s Day, we have put together some wonderful Pins to help your Mother feel like a Queen for the day…!  If you would like to chime in, we are always open to hearing your thoughts and feedback.

OMS Pinterest Board: Mother’s Day

---

Stay Connected with Outdoormountainspirit.com!

Pushing Yourself to New Limits!

April and Athletic Apparel month starts to come to a close, we look back at our athletic performance for the month.  This month has been all about pushing ourselves to new limits.  In fact, this month I had a few very humbling fitness moments…

This week, I took advantage of a nicer day to go for a run.  We have some big, long, technical runs planned this summer and I need to start getting back into cardiovascular shape and increasing my distance now before those runs creep up on me.  I went for a short, but really hilly run, and thought half way through – “gosh, I feel horrible and I can’t wait until I am back in shape and able to run longer distances like it is nothing”.  But I can’t focus on chapter 12 when I’m on chapter 1.  So I got home, sat down at my computer and started planning out the rest of my mileage workouts based on our planned runs this summer.  Bring it on!

And then today, I had a moment during my workout where I wondered if I could go any further.  It was as much a mental workout as it was a physical one.  Exercises were challenging, the reps were high, and there was virtually no recovery time.  I broke down at one point…and then I took a deep breath and got it together.  I stopped looking at everyone else around me struggling (which made it worse for me), I stopped looking at the workout as impossible, and I started strategizing how to get through it by breaking it up into smaller intervals and celebrated completing those intervals…and then I finished!

We all have limits, but the important thing is to set goals and strive for them.  Some of them may be trying to complete a mile run or walk, or finding the courage to get back into the gym.  Some of you may be training for a marathon, triathlon or simply hitting the gym to get strong and feel your absolute best.  It doesn’t really matter what your fitness goals are…it just matters that you have them and that you stay dedicated to them and to yourself!

We are so blessed to have our bodies and our health, so let’s get active, stay active, push our limits and feel the best we have ever felt…together!

Looking for a bit of inspiration?  Check out these inspiring athletes that teach us that no obstacle is too large to overcome in our quest to stay fit and healthy.

Kayla Montgomery:
Watch the video “Catching Kayla,” linked in this article, and you will be truly moved
“She Collapses In Agony Every Time She Runs A Race, But This Teen With MS Refuses To Stop” 

---

Noah Galloway
Some of you may know him from this season’s Dancing with the Stars competition.  But what you should know him for is his story and his devotion to giving back.  His mantra is #NoExcusesNoah – who doesn’t love that?!
Click Here for Noah’s Bio

---

Louise Green
Louise writes this article about more than just herself, and powerfully strikes down stereotypes about body shape, body image and fat shaming.
“I’m fat and I’m an athlete.  You shouldn’t be surprised.”

---

“They ask why I push myself to the limit.
I do it because I feel powerful, strong and tough.
I feel at home when I’m challenged.”
~Noah Galloway

Stay Connected with Outdoormountainspirit.com!

---

What’s Your Workout Routine?

Since April is Athletic Apparel Month, we thought it only fitting to discuss the newest training we are doing since the New Year.  It is called Manic Training.  It’s not Boot Camp.  It’s not Cross Fit.  It’s not your every day, run of the mill gym class either (far from it).  It’s exactly what its name states…Manic.

Founder Graham “Bush” Muir is a force to be reckoned with.  When he speaks, people listen (or run the other direction).  He is a Kiwi transplanted to Steamboat Springs, CO via some Rugby Coaching positions that took him on a roundabout route to our little town.  He took his love of sport and helping people achieve their best possible athletic selves and siphoned it into what is now Manic Training.

Pictured left to right: Jeff Snook, instructor; Graham “Bush” Muir, Owner/Founder

I used to work with Bush’s wife back when he was just starting workouts out of his garage.  She used to beg me to come, telling me how “fun” it was.  I laughed as I was on a completely different training schedule back then.  I was training for triathlons and I felt if I wasn’t outside training then I wasn’t training at all.  And, I was always a solo athlete – I liked to run by myself, I liked to bike by myself, I liked to workout in the gym by myself, heck I even liked to ski by myself.  I just always felt like there were too many egos flying around and I wanted to concentrate on my workout, nothing else.

Years later and with pretty much every single one of my closest friends as Manic athletes, I gave in.  I participated in a Manic event to raise money for the American 300.  It gave me a taste not only of the workouts, but of the comradery and community that comes with it. I don’t know if it is age or what, but I really enjoy exercising with others now.  In fact, it is probably my number one motivator – perhaps my solo self lacks the motivation these days?!

In that time, Bush’s gym has far exceeded the small space that was once his garage.  In fact, he’s increased the space of the gym a few times as his workouts and his way of training continue to draw more and more people.  I’m not going to lie…some days it is a gut wrenching workout that leaves you dazed and wondering what just happened.  But one thing is for sure…you always leave Manic knowing you left it all out on the floor.  And then when you start to see differences in your body and you know they are the differences you wanted to achieve, it makes that little angel sitting on your shoulder whisper into your ear to sign up for the next class.  So I do.There really is no describing the Manic workout, so you should head on over to their website and check it out…MANIC TRAINING!

And don’t forget our Athletic Apparel & Fitness Fanatic Style Guides to move you through your workouts.

Stay Connected with Outdoormountainspirit.com!

April is Athletic Apparel Month!

Now is the time of year, when we clean out our cold weather closet and start to make room for warm weather attire.  One of my personal favorites is digging out last year’s workout gear and figuring out what I need this year.  I get a certain personal satisfaction from knowing I look good at the gym, even if I am covered in sweat and grunting through the last few rounds of an exercise.  I am also a woman on the go, especially after the gym, with kids to feed, errands to run, etc. I like to wear athletic clothing that I know will translate to being out in public while I whiz around town trying to check off every last thing from my checklist.

So, I also love putting together our Fitness Fanatic Style Guides with this concept in mind.  We have new arrivals coming in every week now, so we will be updating you with more Fitness Fanatic Style Guides as the month goes on, but for this week, we wanted to present you with….Tango in Teal

Also, don’t forget to check out our Fitness Oriented Pinterest Boards which range from beginner workouts to fitness challenges and span all kinds of activities from yoga to surf/SUP and trail running to cycling.  Get inspired this Spring!

FITNESS FANATIC PINTEREST BOARDS…
FITNESS	YOGA	SURF-SWIM-SUP

Stay Connected with Outdoormountainspirit.com!

Fashion Week Wrap Up

photo via Vogue UK

While we specialize in outdoor clothing at Outdoormountainspirit.com, make no bones about it, we are in the fashion biz.  And as such, the beginning of the year is an important time for designers as they debut their Fall Styles for the upcoming year on the catwalk.  Not only is it a time for them to see and be seen, but it also a time for industry vets to put on their best display for the world to see.  And then…it is our turn to analyze, judge and decide what we like.

From New York to London and Milan to Paris, there is one thing evident and that is Fall 2015 styles are edgy and innovative.  Pushing the envelope was everyone’s intention this season – seeing how far fashion can go – taking it to the edge…walking the precipice…without going too far.

Fall 2015 will prove to be an exciting time in fashion.  We hope you enjoy our hand selected items from the Runway to Street Style.  And, we hope you use them as inspiration for your next purchase, your next visit to your own closet or maybe even the next time you settle in at your very own sewing machine.  Whatever your choice, have fun, stay creative and make a bold statement in your personal fashion this year!

New York Fashion Week Staff Favs…
Fav Runway: Pamela Roland photo via Elle	Fav Street Style: Alexandra Dieck photo via Vogue UK	Fav Couple photo via Elle
London Fashion Week Staff Favs…
Fav Runway: Julien Macdonald photo via Elle	Fav Street Style: Alexa Chung photo via Elle	Fav Mother-Child: Hedvig Opshaug photo via Vogue UK
Milan Fashion Week Staff Favs…
Fav Runway: Roberto Cavalli photo via Harper’s Bazaar	Fav Street Style: Alexa Chung photo via Elle	Fav Duo: Diana Enciu & Alina Tanasa photo via Vogue UK
Paris Fashion Week Staff Favs…
Fav Runway: Louis Vuitton photo via Elle	Fav Street Style: Sarah Harris photo via Elle	Fav Pup Style photo via Vogue UK
Check out our Pinterest Boards for a full look at our Fall 2015 Fashion Week Favs!

Stay Connected with Outdoormountainspirit.com!

Travel Essentials & Advice

I had a friend call me the other day, and ask for some travel fashion advice.  I found it quite ironic since we are focusing on “Fashion that Travels” this month, so I thought I would share the overwhelmingly profound advise that I gave her. (insert wink, wink here)

First of all, there are many questions to ask yourself when traveling.  My top 5 are:
·      Where are you going?
·      What is the weather forecast?
·      What is the culture like?
·      How long will you be staying?
·      What kinds of activities/itinerary do you have planned?

In this case, my friend was traveling to New York City, the weather was going to be in the 40s, it’s a metropolitan area with a fashion sense known for black and grey, she was going for a long weekend and they were planning to shop, drink, eat and tour around to trendy places.

I pulled some items from the Outdoormountainspirit.com closet, and low and behold she ended up using several of my recommendations.  Here are just a few…

	Pretty Poncho/Cover Up This item is a must have in any wardrobe because not only is it AMAZING.  It is one of the best weapons in your arsenal when traveling from warm weather to cold weather or vice versa.   Now, our Fall version is sold out in both colors because…again…this piece is AMAZING…but not to worry!  We have a spring version of the same thing in the KAVU Cover Up and next Fall we will be bringing the beloved Pretty Poncho back into the fray!
	Whitman Pant There is nothing better than a pant that can be dressed up or dressed down and feels so yummy you would swear you were wearing pajamas.  Wear it on the plane, wear them out to a nice restaurant, wear them to run errands, etc.
	Indah Jacket If there is one thing I’ve learned from many trips to Manhattan, YOU. MUST. HAVE. A. GREAT. JACKET.  This jacket is a travel go to.  It is light weight enough to be a 3 season stunner.  It can be worn without ever taking it off and look trendy and presentable for almost any occasion, or it can simply be used as a great layer over your favorite top or frock.
	Revery Long Sleeve Top This is my go to long sleeve when traveling because the fabric is out of this world.  It can serve as a “basic” or layer under lots of things, and the unique cowl neck makes it more than just a basic long sleeve top.
Mixing and matching was key here.  My friend didn’t want to take anything other than a carry on for a long weekend and the 4 pieces we gave her offered several options for her 3 day trip. If you have a trip coming up soon and need some travel fashion advice, never fear, we are always here for you!  Message us at info@outdoormountainspirit.com with your requests and we will do our best to make your travel anxiety melt away so you can enjoy your trip and focus on what is important…Cheers!

Stay Connected with Outdoormountainspirit.com!

March Wardrobe Essentials…!

March is that time of year when Daylight Savings shakes things up, the first day of Spring arrives and the temperature starts to ease into what feels like warmer weather.  Dressing appropriately during this time can feel like you are on a roller coaster.  So…leave it to us to help you through it.

The biggest thing to keep in mind when planning for temperature swings is to layer.  And some of the most fun and convenient layering items are leggings & cardigans. Leggings can be worn under long tops, paired with skirts or layered under dresses to create the perfect ensemble.  And cardigans…well, they can be put on when you get chilly or need that extra something for your outfit, or taken off if the weather gets warmer and you need to shed a layer.  Last but not least, don’t forget the ever important accessories.  From hats to scarves, we’ve got you covered for whatever Mother Nature throws at you.

Check out these leggings, cardigans and accessories for your transitional wardrobe this March…

Leggings For Layering…!
Aventura Harriet Legging	Toad & Co. Printed Lean Legging	Kavu Layover Legging
Kavu Ladies Legging	Kavu Lola Legging	Gramicci Katrine Legging
Cardigans You Can Count On…!
Aventura Kyle Wrap	Aventura Annalise Cardigan	Carve Designs Laurel Cardi
Carve Designs Kinley Wrap	Gramicci Enza Wrap	Toad & Co. Cardamon Short Cardi
Toad & Co. Postcard Cardigan	Lole Vital Cardigan	Royal Robbins Manu Sweater Vest
Accessories That Bring It All Together…!
Pistil Designs Avery Infinity Scarf	Pistil Designs Effie Infinity Scarf	Royal Robbins 3 Seasons Wrap
Pistil Designs Stevie Ball Cap	Pistil Designs Ranger Hat	Pistil Designs Lena Cap

And if you need help putting it all together, remember our Style Guides.  Luxe Layers will help you find the perfectly layered outfit for transitional times! Stay tuned for New Arrivals that will be coming in to our warehouse any day now!

Stay Connected with Outdoormountainspirit.com!

OMS in Paradise

March is our month to focus on travel.  And wouldn’t you know it…we’ve got an OMS adventure that takes us out of the country!

This week, we take time out for ourselves.  Time for some rest and relaxation, which is few and far between.  We find ourselves in Sayulita, Riviera Nayarit in Mexico for another OMS Adventure and we couldn’t be happier. We are staying at a quiet, private estate just outside of town and a 10 minute walk from a private beach where we might see 6 people at most all day.  We have laid in the sun, played in the waves, attempted to surf and met some really wonderful people along the way.  We are  grateful for this respite, while be it a short one.

As you can imagine, we utilize any adventure out of town to put our travel fashion caps on.  As we wait for new Spring arrivals, we jumped into our Spring 2014 archives for some goodies to serve our every need. Join us on this fashion adventure which I have to say has us uber excited for new items to arrive.  With all this fashion, we still managed a base tan and a snarky sense of humor about the blizzard and single digit temps back home….!

Our top travel picks from this trip…

Carve Designs Middleton Cover Up Ok…not only is this cover up made from impeccable fabric that drapes and floats and feels like heaven on earth, but the design lines of this cover up are…can I say it?…sexy!  Long enough to cover your bum, but short enough to show off your yams, I often pair this top with a pair of capris and a wedge for a night out, and then rock it by the pool the next day.

Carve Designs Margo Maxi Dress Wear it to breakfast by the pool, wear it to the beach over your bikini, wear it out at night, it’s a super versatile piece!  Not everyone gets it, but maxi dresses are truly amazing and I am a firm believer that everyone should have at least one in their wardrobe.

	Carve Designs Abbie Maxi Skirt & Kumari Tank Top While this maxi skirt is perfect for putting on over your bikini and walking comfortably around the pool in, it is a bit too long for walking on the beach.  Since, I am known for making skirts into dresses on a whim.  This is exactly what I did when we reached the sand.  I hiked the waist up to my armpits, tucked my blankets under my arm and toddled out to find the perfect sandy spot to call home for the day.  When I needed a top to cover up that day, I reached for the Kumari Tank Top.  Again, Carve nailed it on the fabric for this piece. It is so yummy, I didn’t want to take it off.  And the armpits were cut lower, but not too low so it is bra friendly, and the racer back with the low scoop in the front make it feminine but sporty all at the same time.
	Carve Designs Gansett Dress This dress gets an A+ for design and fabric coming together and making perfect sense.  This swim fabric is brilliant for any surf holiday and the beautiful print makes it super feminine.   The open back makes it easy to slip on and off when you need to run into the surf, and creates a great back when you wear it out at night.  I will never go on another beach vacation without this piece in tow.
	Lole Supta One Piece Jumper Perfect for travel days when you are going from one climate to the other. In Mexico we wore this as is with some sandals to stay cool and comfortable on our trip to the airport. Once we landed in Colorado, we grabbed a trusty cardigan to layer up and protect ourselves from the cold while changing into some closed toe shoes.

Stay Connected with Outdoormountainspirit.com!For this and more travel friendly fashion, click here.  If you have a trip you are planning, let us know about it and how we can help you.  We’d love to put together some outfits for you to choose from!

Spring 2015 Sneak Peek!

Looking for something fresh for Spring?  Well look no further! Spring styles will be coming into our warehouse in March, and we are giving you an exclusive SNEAK PEEK at some of our favorites.  With fresh new colors, creative design lines and lightweight fabrics that spring with your every step…we simply cannot wait to share these Spring styles with you, so stay tuned!

TOPS that are divine…
Toad & Co. Ripple Tee	Lole Vervain Tank Top	Carve Designs Dylan Gauze Shirt
BOTTOMS that move…
Royal Robbins Breeze Thru Culotte	Carve Designs Oahu Short	Royal Robbins Strider Pant
DRESSES & SKIRTS that sizzle…
Toad & Co Shirred Thing Dress	Aventura Jessa Skirt	Toad & Co Long Island Dress
OUTERWEAR that serves…
Lole Jade Jacket	Carve Designs Lake Sunshirt	Aventura Lantana Hoodie
ACCESSORIES that dazzle…
Pistil Designs Solange Scarf	Pistil Designs McKinley Trucker Hat	Darn Tough Waterlily No Show Sock

Stay Connected with Outdoormountainspirit.com!