NYC & Outdoor Retailer S/S 2011
ATHLETA: "BEING STRONG IS A BEAUTIFUL THING"
We don't know how we possibly could not have heard of Athleta...as this San Fran based company is under the massive Gap/Old Navy umbrella...
That would create awareness...but not necessarily convince us that these are the kind of separates we'd opt for when running, hitting the gym, the links, the tennis court...or hiking.
At an Editor's Preview, we were completely wowed by what we saw for Spring 2011...garments strategically made from top performing, proprietary fabrics that stretch, breath, wick away moisture and clean easy, details (inner key pockets, chafe free seam construction, flattering paneled construction that look great on many body types, versatile cuts synergistically enhancing athletic efforts, removeable cups in bratops)....
(A collab with Yellowman-a company that makes the ultimate in graphic driven/tatoo prints bike shirts)
And--- solid Spring tones.Performance with style---the mantra here---a Convertible Touring Jacket (sleeves zip off) with upper back mesh panel for ventilation, two front zip and rear zip pockets---
PLUS---with moisture wicking breathable, quick dry easy care Quick Step Tight---that has a ruched waistband/internal drawstring, mesh insert panel reflective graphic on back---midweight and supportive.
One of our favorite pieces is this Pranayama Pilayo Hoodie --a semi-fitted, mock neck jacket---with 360 degree reflexivity (visibility wherever headlights shine on), and a super chic/functioning removable nylon overlay shrug and hood for wind protection.
PLUS: 4 way stretch.
Hana Run Shorts ultra light---made of microfibers that speed drying, moisture wicking, and internal stash pocket, reflective graphic on leg----
BIG DEAL ---IMHO: 365 degree reflectivity, supportive fabrics, moisture management---in fun colors too-compression wear made with a gal in mind.
A dress for YOGA? Drishti Dress---gently shired with pockets---really a lifestyle frock that works outside the studio. Can lock it in...
Compressive shorts underneath for running or tennis.
UPF 50+ Swimwear too---Goofy Foot Floral and San-O Mix Match One-Eighty tops- and bottoms including cute Vital Swim Shorts-all sold separately, with bra sized tops, fully lined..
Tennis and golf wear gets a seriously chic-in this scalloped sleeve Fairway Polo---with the fabric performance features we expect (stretch, moisture wicking, easy care),,, pared with the semi-fitted Sweet Sport Skort (UPF50+)---that has a zipped pocket for golf tees.
Tops really are top at Athleta---including this semi-fitted tank with an internal shelf bra.
A wide variety of bottoms---like the Yoga Pant and Commuter Capri (abrasion resistant---great for climbing too)---have thicker waistbands that are slimming.
Off the shoulder cover up for the beach or after class.
This Zephyr jackets keeps the pace with mesh lined flaps at shoulders and upper back mesh panels for breathability and mobility.
Under the broad category Fitness Bottoms---the feminine touches on these highly functioning Skorts really made us want to try them out---and we usually shy away form extra fabric as we find it annoying.
The Chamois Pad-with a rear zip pocket ---is lightweight, stretchy, and easy care---the Chain Ring Cycling sample even has a leg grip to prevent riding up. SMART. We would wear these.
www.athleta.com
ISIS: WE FIT WHO YOU ARE
NEW TECHNOLOGY = GOOD LOOKING PERFORMANCE LIFESTYLE PIECES
It has been a full cycle of seasons since we last saw ISIS, a female designed collection of intimates and separates for women.
We thought the garments we saw this time around, divided into categories ELEMENTS, ADVENTURE, and LIFE...were fun and practical... well made of active wear fabric selections.
Proof of how important a textile is ---the first piece we saw we could wear in a downpour without getting clammy: the Raindrop Trench and Jacket that are totally waterproof with taped seamed construction,,,(w XPR™ coating and DWR finish)...and details that really are smart-zip-off and adjustable hoods, velvet-lined chin guards, internal zip and inner mesh stow pockets, chest pockets with snap closes--adjustable snap cuffs...
This cowl neck Moxie Tank and Dress are made of DriRelease® material with a FreshGuard® finish... good for outdoor and urban pursuits, especially when traveling (invisible zipped security pocket at waist)--- and ideal as who wants to spend time doing laundry..
This jacket is made of tech-savvy, eco friendly Cocona® that when mixed up with the fabric renders it incredibly breathable, and with a nice feel that drapes really well. Best part---it's completely waterproof without that heavy raincoat feel.
Cute Whirlwind Long Cami $24.50 with internal shelf bra and invisible zip security pocket at hem...perfect for those insanely hot days...moisture wicking too.
Whirlwind Tank---mesh front and back neckline---we thought the bra friendly straps very helpful.
Skyline Skorts with mesh waist band and compression shorts are gym savvy---and presentable enough for after a class. With Evaporator™ technology and chafe free construction.
INFO: ISIS
ALLEGRI is a premium Italian brand with three lines included the high end Black Label and sporty A-Tech---that we first learned about at a Saks Fifth Avenue event last month.
This outwear company came off with some truly exceptional pieces for Spring 2011.
Stunning---this jacket embossed in Microvoile--- silky polyester that is windproof and water repellant.
Another knock-out---this Trench with embossed sleeves in Declavè Duchesse silk cotton with water repellant treatment and windproof...this would brighten any rainy day.
This kimono sleeve on a practical belted jacket gives elegance to a utilitarian item. Plus- a removable hood in taft with Micropolyester fabric---water repellant and windproof...it's a workhorse of a garment. Throw over a skirt/blouse, jeans/tees or gym clothes and feel instantly dressed up.
We so coveted the A-Tech line...smart, on trend, street chic pieces---
A super light weight nylon water repellant jacket has a removable hood...and stylish gatherings on the entire length of the zip and on the sleeves. Yeah, one can jog in this item---but since it does not scream athletic wear---it's lifestyle fashionable.
Amazing-this wear it four ways, two-tone jacket in light tech stretch cotton that's super light and ultra-fine. Love how the reversible jacket linked by a zip with a two-tone lightly padded reversible vest.
Men have their own version too.
