10 gym bag essentials for all hijabis

Let’s face it ladies, active hijabis have special requirements when it comes to packing to go to the gym. Because we sweat more after working out, just changing into a fresh set of clothes and giving yourself a wipe down with some wet wipes will not be enough. We usually need to take time to shower properly, or at least wash our hair. Hence, we usually bring more stuff to the gym. But how much is enough?

Below are 10 items that I must have inside my gym bag and I have to admit, I can’t live without any of them!

  1. Hairdryer – Never wear hijab with a damp hair. Damp hair breeds bacteria and fungus, will lead to unpleasant odor, dandruff, and weak hair in the long run
  2. Shampoo – The very least is to wash your scalps to get rid of the sweat
  3. Small towel – I always bring at least 2 towels. Big towel is to dry my body, and a small towel to dry my hair. I find that my hair will dry faster this way.
  4. Hijab essentials (hijab, undercap, pins, accessories, hair ties, etc) – Use a small container for loose items such as pins and accessories
  5. Treatment oil – my personal favorite is as argan oil or coconut oil
  6. A set of clean clothes – this includes underwear, tops, bottoms, hijab, etc
  7. Water bottle
  8. Breakfast – if you’re heading out immediately after working out, prepare your snack before you leave
  9. Ladies stuff – sanitary pad, panty liner, etc
  10. Treat your self! – include in a nice bath gel or a luxurious lotion to reward yourself after working out. My personal favorite is a sugar scrub.

Hijabis, I hope this list will be helpful for you to pack before hitting the gym. Remember to pack the night before heading to the gym to make sure you have everything you need. Less stress, more sweat!

Your Nashata traveling essentials

It’s almost the end of the year, and that means holiday season is here for most people. Regardless of where you are heading to, don’t forget to pack a piece of Nashata into your suitcase!

Nashata was designed with the athlete in mind, but that also means the pieces are versatile. You can wear it in almost any casual situation – while exploring cities, boarding a flight, lounging at the beach, or my favourite, “runcations”.

Here’s how to pack your Nashata traveling essentials, based on your type of vacation:

URBAN EXPLORER

Your vacation will most likely revolve around discovering modern cities, or walking to museums, or cafe-hopping. It’s going to get hot and humid with all that walking and navigating around the city, so opt for some sun protection like a sunglasses and hat. A quick-dry top will keep the sweaty smell at bay. Keep it casual and presentable in with a pair of jeans.

FREQUENT FLIER

Crossing different timezones is a normal thing for you. That long haul flight is going to get chilly, so layer up a hoodie to keep your warm and give you privacy so you can sleep. Don’t forget some entertainment to keep you occupied on that 10 hour flight – it’s the perfect time to catch up on a tv show or finish a book.

ISLAND ESCAPE

Sun, sand, and sea – it’s about to get wet! But that does not mean you have to compromise your modesty. Swim to your heart’s content in the Sibaha. Who says you can’t have fun under the sun while covering up?

THE RUNCATION

Another weekend, another run, another city. Don’t forget your race gear, you don’t want to be stuck in an unfamiliar city looking for a top, pants, or worst, shoes! Also, soothe that tanned skin after hours in the sun with some natural remedy.

So where will you be travelling to? Don’t forget to post your OOTD and tag us!

Plus Size Model Wanted

Hello ladies,

Did you know that Nashata is for all ladies who wish to dress modestly and since Day 1, we have designs specially made for large & tall women? From sports hijab to tops and pants, we have got them covered. The designs are loose with slimming effect  and they are made of moisture wicking fabric. We carry sizes until 3XL. For:

1. Sports Hijabs, there are the Mumtaz  extended

2. Tops , there are Riada Peplum, Riada Nahl, Riada Pesaque and Ultra Galaxy range, and

3. Pants, we have loose cut Riada Active Pants, baggy-stylish Hattha Pants and the Harem pants.

So, don’t you worry ladies. You will look good in them.

Syadam love obstacle races and competes in – the Riada Nahl and Riada Active Pants in confidence.

2018 is a year for us to celebrate the Plus Size Ladies. We are kicking off searching for these beautiful plus size ladies to be part of Nashata Plus Size Models.

What do you get if you’re chosen as Nashata Plus Size model?

  • Get to be Nashata Model
  • Be the model at Malaysia Women Marathon(MWM) Fashion Show in March 2018
  • Get Supplies of Nashata Plus-Size Products for 3 months
  • Be featured in Nashata Blog

The chosen models will get to wear Nashata plus-sized sports tops, sponsored by us. This is an awesome opportunity for you to Be Fit, Be You,  and wear appropriate activewear when you workout. Let’s share with others that Fitness is Easy! Together with Nashata, we can make a greater impact to motivate others to not give up on staying active. Now that’s one way you could increase your deen by helping others, right? 😉

So, what are you still waiting for? Join us by just fill in the form here ! Or share this with your beautiful friends. Deadline is 31st December 2017.

Shortlisted ones will be contacted 1st week of January 2018.

 

 

 

We can help you to be a smart consumer

Facing a tight budget, but you need to replace a pair of pants? Unsure about what is modest activewear all about?  Should you compromise between quality and price? Worry not, Nashata is here to help you make sound choices based on your budget and needs.

Here I have listed 4 situations or problems, and how we can assist to solve them. However, we understand that there are different price point for every individual, hence we suggest an alternative product that will work too.

Some people call the alternative as ‘entry-level’ price point. However, I would like to call the alternatives as ‘aspiration pieces’. Thanks to the affordable price points for the alternative, you will now get a preview on what Nashata is all about, and be a smart consumer to decide on the best product to suit your budget

 

In the long run, you might still need to ‘invest’ in products that can last for a few years and possibly, a lifetime such as the Heather range. They might be expensive initially but thanks to the good quality one top can last for a long time, hence you get ‘returns’ by saving since you don’t have to replace a top over and over again. The cost per wear will reduce over time, since you wear the top repeatedly.

The heather range. This top has served me well over the past few years

Ladies, the power is in your hands. Make the right decision that will benefit you in the future, and make your money worth every single cent!

Turn Your Athleisure Into A Leisure #OOTD

OOTD Athleisure Nashata

Athleisure style is ubiquitous nowadays. Either wearing a pair of leggings, sweatpants, Sports hijab, we are seeing many of these sportsgear worn everywhere apart from the gym. Leggings are no longer consider as “the ultimate gymwear” because you see so much of them worn leisurely and it’s perfectly acceptable. This fashion has become a trend. People are wearing them all day and no one’s complaining. Women today want to wear comfortable clothes yet still look stylish. Thank God we have ditched the corset era. Phew!

In the women’s business, there is no performance without style.

According to our customers’ reviews, Nashata is highly known for its performance and high quality material that lasts for years. Many of them claimed that they love the designs as well. However, not many realized that the designs are evergreen. In other words, if you wear Nashata you can never go out-of-style. wink* In the women’s business, there is no performance without style. From various range of our products such as Azza toplectics, the lovely Jasmine pants, and Hoodie cardigans and of course, the ever versatile Raaz glove – this is the perfect leisure wear for women who place a lot of importance in being comfortable. So get your old Heather top out, because you’re going to need them.

Check out these fab wearable #OOTD on the run!
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But the most important thing of all, SMILE. Because just like Annie said, You’re Never Fully Dressed without a Smile. 🙂

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In the spirit of #bangkitbersama

Day 1 of #bangkitbersama

Distance: 15km
Venue: Larian Sukan SEA 2017, Putrajaya

Swept by the enthusiasm and the spirit to support our marathoners, I headed to Putrajaya to witness our very own Muhaizar and Leo Tan against other South East Asian athletes in the SEA Games 2017. At the same venue there was the Larian Sukan Sea all ready to flag off. I did not register for this event but after a lot of thinking, since I was there to support the athletes participating in marathon that day, might as well I run too. I needed the mileage anyways, it was too hard not to say no to 15km. As I did not pay for the run, I shall reserve my comments about the race to those who are entitled to give feedback ie the participants who paid.

I was not in this picture because I was still running nonetheless, it made me feel so proud to be one of the supporters. (Picture courtesy of Running Malaysia Magazine)

First rule of running in an event that you did not register: Bring your own water, or a whole hydration pack like I did. The drinks at the water station are reserved for the participants only. If you don’t pay, you don’t drink.

Before the run I had the opportunity to witness world-class, professional athletes run for at least 10km. Graceful, yet swift and powerful like cheetahs, their beautiful running form made running seemed effortless. All of these take years of practice and coaching. In my eyes, even the last finisher among the countries were already winners for going all out. I may not have the chance to represent Malaysia in the SEA Games, but at least I can learn to improve myself from watching these athletes. I was proud to hear that Malaysia finished 3rd, behind Singapore and Indonesia. Another medal of Malaysia, yeay!

The front pack was too fast for my camera

Day 2 of #bangkitbersama

Distance: 21km
Venue: CICM Responsible Care Run 2017, Shah Alam

I cannot deny that I woke up contemplating if running again was a good idea. Yesterday’s event was not really a hard run however I woke up feeling lethargic, probably from not taking enough protein and water. However, as another ultramarathon looms ahead, every mileage counts. Plus, Taman Botani Shah Alam was a good, hilly training ground so I knew I had to do it.

Total elevation gained was over 400m. To put that elevation into perspective, running from Gombak to Genting Sempah will give over 500m elevation.

The hills are never going to end in this route, aren’t they

Despite the hilly route Taman Botani is secretly one of my favourite places for running events because of the well-maintained roads and lush greenery inside the park. It was not hot despite running at 9am although it was more humid than usual. However, the organizers prepared water station every 3km so it was sufficient. As I was running, I spotted areas inside the park such as the open theatre and a few facilities that were not maintained which is a shame. The park had many visitors who came there for picnics, cycling, or just walking around with their family, hence the facilities should be fully utilized to maximise the visitor’s experience. There was also a clogged drain or blocked irrigation which lead to a mini-flood on the running route, soaking the participant’s pants and shoes.

No where was it stated that there will be a “river crossing” in this event. Did I miss the memo?

You can’t avoid it too because there is a checkpoint at the end of this road

Probably the organizers wanted to have a feel of trail runs but on road conditions?

Other than that, it was a small-scaled, simple, yet good event because it met my expectations. The water station was sufficient, medic and volunteers were helpful, the quality of the medal, event tee, and finisher tee matches the price point, and Taman Botani Shah Alam is a beautiful venue. Taman Botani, I will be back for more!

Views like this serves as an inspiration to just keep going

 

5 Reasons to Choose Modest Athleisurewear

Ladies who are always on the go, running on tight schedule at work or home need outfits that support their activities. Modest Athleisurewear suits modern and progressive women who seek for more coverage in their attire. Here’s why:

1. Comfortable & Practical
Athleisurewear for modest ladies or hijabis are designed not only for exercises, but also designed and tested for comfort and practicality. They are mostly simple, loose and with no-pins designs – injected with cool and innovative features like 2-in-1 tops and hijabs, hidden pockets and even hoodies.

Use no pin hijabs for Travel

Use no-pin hijabs and zipper top for travelling

Simple and practical outfits

A visit to the museum in a simple and practical outfit

2.  Fabric for Active Ones
Almost all activewears are made of fabric that is moisture wicking, fast-drying, lightweight, anti-odor and sun-protective. You can sweat out in it from head to toe with out feeling discomfort, even for long hour use.

Travel Far in Nashata Athleisurewear

Anti-odor and sun-protective top for outdoor activity

Nashata's New Athleisure Top & Athleijab

Nashata’s New Athleisure Top & Athleijab

3. Good for Travel & Vacation
Put on the most comfy athleisure wear when you travel, especially for long haul journey on the plane, train or bus.  Be it easy-to-put-on pinless hijab, slouchy sweatpants, harem pants or hoodie top to cover your head when you nap, athleisure wear is just perfect for you! Walk about at the airport and train stations, and seat comfy for hours in total comfort and style.

Walk around comfortably while travelling

Walk around comfortably while travelling

Don’t even mention how perfect they are for vacations. They are mostly lightweight, easy to wash and fast drying. So pack enough  athleisure wear when you travel.

Hooded Cardigan and Leggings for Travel

Hooded Cardigan and Leggings for Beach Outerwear

You would always find your sports hijab, modest top and pants useful throughout your travel. So hesitate not to bring more.

Ready to nap in a long haul flight

Ready to nap in a long haul flight

4, Fashionable & Fresh
Simple and practical designs are indeed fashionable. Suitable for modern, active women, you just need to  mix and match your activewear to get the fun and fresh styles. You can reduce layering without compromising modest dressing styles.

Fresh and Fashionable

Relaxed & Fresh Look


5. Assimilate with any footwear
Good news is that you can wear athleisure outfits and they go well with shoes and  sandals. Hence the reason why – they are good investment for your wardrobe – versatile, comfy and multipurpose.

Riada Active Pants go well in any footwear

Riada Active Pants

With high heels shoes and right color - you get a more formal look

With high heels shoes and right color combination – you get a more formal look

Be creative to make your style fresh yet modest. Keep a healthy and active lifestyle by wearing athleisurewear as much as you can. It will keep you moving!

Just when you think you can’t get enough of hilly routes…

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His & Hers – Me in Ultra Top while our 2:10 pacer is in Luke Top

When Sis Eliza (founder of Nashata.com) asked me if I would like to join Men’s Health Women’s Health (MHWH) Night Run 2017, I said YES in a heartbeat. I joined the 12km category this time, compared to 21km at the Johor edition because I had plans to run PJ Half Marathon the following morning (Kids, don’t try this back-to-back event thingy at home!) but however, that plan did not materialize because I had a family event.

This is not my first MHWH event. I have been a fan of this event since 2015, and it has expanded ever since. Why MHWH Night Run is one of my favourite running event:

  • Generous contests and giveaway. AIA Vitality and MHWH chanelled plenty of free slots through various groups and organizations, and luckily Nashata was one of them.
  • Exhibition seem to be one of the highlight of the event. Plenty of lounging spots for supporters to just chill and enjoy the night. There were plenty of food trucks too
  • I love the fun, party-like vibe to the event. Meriah!
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Pacers need to fuel up too! Image courtesy of Kyserun Krew

I had no ambitions to renew my personal best (PB) once the organizers announced that they changed the venue to MARDI Maeps. I had experiences running there previously, and it is known for the rolling hills compared to their original route at Putrajaya. Hence, my aim was to just keep going and don’t give in the the hills – just run to enjoy the view, and that’s precisely what I did.

For example:

Enjoying the view #1

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I did not detour to see what they had inside, but the cute statues did catch my eyes

Enjoying the view #2

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The half marathoners had to go in a loop twice, hence this screen was very useful to keep count if they have completed the second loop

And the rest was too dark to be captured. I knew MARDI Maeps has some pretty calming countryside views in the day; you can see horses running around and some cows grazing. However since it was night time and insufficient lighting even the roads became hard to see. Oh well, at least I can’t properly see the rolling hills ahead of me until I started to ascend it.

When I reached the finishing line at around 10pm the crowd was still buzzing and there was no signs of slowing down. We tried several food trucks however I was already exhausted from running, I did not walk around the exhibition area. Eventually, it was time to go back. I went home with a full belly and only good memories about this event, and hope to run for another MHWH event again in the future.

Ending the night by bumping into a familiar face

Ending the night by bumping into a familiar face

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An event will be incomplete without a group photo with them

City Spin & Standard Chartered KL Marathon 2017

Diversity is beautiful – everyone is unique, yet we should celebrate the difference. Due to it’s immense popularity, history, and significance, SCKLM 2017 is one of the highlights for most runners. Never have I ever seen a running event which brings thousands of people from various background, fitness level, and goals! The beauty of diversity among runners was highlighted and deeply appreciated both before and during the event.

Before The Big Day

My running group, Kyserun Krew, organized a friendly, fun run called City Spin 2017. It was a short 4.5K run around KLCC and Jalan Ampang, giving runners a quick tour of KL and what to anticipate for tomorrow’s event. Everyone had a good time, taking photos of the iconic buildings and landmarks in the city. Thankfully, the morning rain was starting to subside so the weather was good too!

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Besides shaking out the butterflies in your stomach before the big day and to stretch out those legs, the main aim of this event was to gather various running crews through out Malaysia, as well as welcome those who came from abroad such as Indonesia, Korea, and other countries. After all, what better way to break the ice among runners other than to run? Every running crew might have different principles and culture, yet united by the same, common love for running.

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All photo credit belongs to Syahiran of Kyserun Krew. Thank you!

On the Big Day

At 4 in the morning, I found myself catching the train among a sea of blue sleeveless tops. I was glad that I will be able to arrive early and not worry about parking at the event venue. On the train, I can hear different conversations; some were really serious yet confident, discussing about their strategies and training for the past few months, while others were nervous, excited, or sleepy. Yet, everyone had a single goal in mind: To complete SCKLM, in whatever distance that they chose.

Never have I ever seen so many runners congregate in a single location, except at SCKLM events! Besides runners, the crowd was overwhelming; the streets were packed with not only runners, but supporters, curious on-lookers, and security enforcers too. SCKLM has turned into an event that should be celebrated and inclusive to everyone. To overcome the massive crowd, take advantage of the facilities that the organizer have provided for this event, such as the free train service (my favorite part of the event), bag drop (pack everything that you need, it’s going to be a loooong day), and freebies from the sponsors. Most importantly, come early and prepared, at least 45 mins before your starting to time so you are not rushed to go to the bag drop counter, do your pre-race rituals, and get into the correct starting pen.

Year after year, SCKLM has been a good and memorable experience for me. What I love most about it was not the route or the medal, but the high spirit and energy through out the event. Every runner will feel like a winner! Without a doubt, I will definitely be back again for more next year.

A familiar face that requires no introduction

A familiar face that requires no introduction

One with my Krew!

One with my Krew!

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Thanks to Nashata’s Iman Hijab range, you can now match your hijab with your bib number too!

Read about last year’s SCKLM 2016 experience here

Until next week,

The Weekend Runner

Monochrome Sportswear – Sharp for the Modest

Monochrome is not black and white. It is not grey either. Monochrome is use of shades of a single color and it is the foundation of our designs first half of 2017.

MONOCHROMATIC SPORTSWEAR

We use shades of maroon, blue, turquoise, beige and black in our recent collection. We also apply some traditional flair into our designs with the Kebaya Sports. Yes, we just love adding hints of cultural elements into sportswear, just like the Pesaque in 2016. The shades of one color gives soft touch to sportswear.

Monochrome Nashata Kebaya Sports

Monochrome Nashata Kebaya Sports in Turquoise & Maroon

The kebaya sports are monochrome, long and modest, making it suitable for all body types and dressing preferences. After testing for many months in many runs, we released it in 2 colors ; maroon and turquoise. This is to suit the young and gold hearts of kebaya lovers.

EXQUISITE MONOCHROME FABRICS

We use different types of breathable fabrics – all lightweight with different textures. From monochrome tops, hijabs and pants, we apply monochromatic design philosophy with use of intricate fabric texture and patterns from head to toe. It is actually quite FUN and CHALLENGING.

Pattern Fabric Kebaya Sports

Intricate and Different Textures in Kebaya Sports

Monochrome Hot Pink Hooda Racerback Fabric : Smooth & Wafer-like Combination

Smooth & Wafer-like Combination Texture on  Hooda Racerback  Sports Hijab – the Limited Edition

SIMPLE YET SHARP – Is what you need for training and working out. Sometimes, you just want to wear something that does not attract attention but feels so good working out in. That is why we focus on using high quality and lightweight fabric. The Hoodie Top below for example is so lightweight that you could run swiftly in stealth mode, without being noticed.

Monochrome Hoodie

The Monochrome Hoodie – Stripey & Sporty

DIFFERENT COLORS of MONOCHROME IN ACTION!

The less contrast, the better. Reveal your sportiness with your character and activities. Improve performance and elevate confidence. Not convinced yet? Scroll further.

Runnning Monochrome @ Raub Village

Runnning  21km in Monochrome @ Raub Village – Finished Second! Intan wears the Hooda Racerback Sports Hijab, Tron Ultra Top and Fitness Leggings by Nashata

Same Tone Nashata Ulttra Top & Hooda Racerback Sports Hijab - the limited edition

Same Tone  Gives her More Confidence. She wears Blue Hoodie Ultra Top & Hooda Racerback Sports Hijab (Navy) – the Limited Edition by Nashata

Running in Kebaya Sports

Running 7km on a windy day in  Turquoise EZ Tazz Sports Hijab, Kebaya Sports and Riada Pants by Nashata

MONOCHROME can be BRIGHT!

Don’t forget! You can still wear bright colors in monochromatic outfits. You can try shades of hot pink, green and turquoise. Monochrome is just subtle, yet sharp.  It is beyond black and white and you can look Simple, Sporty and Stylish – just what a modest lady needs!