Words/Images Judith Ecochard
Woolrich (EST 1830) has morphed into a multi-channeled performance/fashion label with premium priced, stylized garb (Woolrich Mills and Elite Series Tactical) sold in the likes of high end retailers like Barney's NY.
What we preview at Outdoor Retailer Tradeshow is the contemporary priced casual wear line for men and women that is accessibly priced and all about performance as much as fashion, we think.
For guys, the Spring collections that start shipping in waves, beginning in January---are divided into the Core, Classics and Expedition tops, bottoms and outerwear pieces.
With a "classic outdoor fit" Woolrich's men's apparel has been tweaked with with a more younger client in mind for many of the designs we saw.
---A bump up in style, but as relaxed and outdoor oriented as ever.
For example, the Weatherchaser Vest and Red Buck Jacket both squish down into portable packs---and are versatile---AND performance enhanced for active wear---water resistant or waterproof. seam sealed, with Dri-release® lining (moisture wicking), windproof, quick dry, and zipped pockets for gadgets and stuff.
Also part of the Expedition line are the Touring Short (pictured below) and Obstacle Short (with a Inseam Gusset making this really hiker friendly)...both city presentable and travel tough
No break-in time needed-super soft (Pebble Wash), UPF 30+ protection, and of Quick Dry fabric,
(Cool Waistband)
Mad for plaid is a Woolrich hallmark---and the Classic short sleeves (Red Creek Shirt - Ruby Plaid and Madras) are 100% cotton comfy button downs---that urban types love to wear.
Women get their own separates in the new Travel Lite that can pack out of a knapsack---and instantly make any gal presentable.
There is no mistaking the Woolrich heritage in these four season pieces (layer under sweaters/vests for mercury dips...
We like how the tops and bottoms have tabs for roll-up possibilities, and how every item is made for stretch, (Reflex Stretch fabric)...PLUS Quick Dry, wrinkle resistant, , and like the above Kordell Skirt...has details like security and pda pockets.
Peeking out are some of the great tops from the Lifestyles line (Fisher Island Tee) that is editorial grouped in color waves, depending on when they ship. All pieces are interchangeable---mix and match...AND made well.
Rohana Hoodie Ribbed Cuffs/Waistband and a Jersey lined hood---
INFO: WOOLRICH
HELLY HANSEN:
We have worn basics under layer pieces from Helly hansen ever since we started getting cold in the winter---meaning forever.
The label is really enormous now---as at Outdoor retailer---the clothes/outerwear/footwear/accessories command an entire large exhibition space on the second floor...
We barely saw anything---but what we saw gets major two thumbs up.
The ASK ans EMBLA collections are the premium sprtswear lines for HH...named after the first humans (think a Nordic take of Adam & Eve sans strategically placed fig leaves).
This hauler is super---an oversized briefcase shape---with original hardware, handle and shoulder straps, great details (inner pockets galore),,,made of sturdy waxed canvas. ( around $180). We are sure it will turn up on the pages of some glossy female print read if the merchandise types get wise.
We know that lifestyle sneakers are major...and these sailing inspired shoes have that 70's retro vibe. PLUS: the kickers are weather friendly/water resistant for all hands on deck---love the drainage holes. ( ($100).
The Robson Jacket (purple one "petunia") and top image---with cotton lime green lining---boast tech features from the 21st cent,---like a fabric coat that's PU based---allowing the jackets to "be stretchy active"---yet feel soft.
NICE.
INFO: www.hellyhansen.com