Search: athleta

This Week I Love …

by Sally on April 30, 2013 · 44 comments

cn6075624

… the street wear produced by athletic clothing companies. Kind of a mouthful, but hear me out.

I’m thinking mainly of Athleta, Horny Toad, and Title Nine. Lululemon and Lucy have some cute street wear options, but definitely focus more on workout gear. The first three, however, have nearly as many non-workout options as gym-only duds, and they’re fabulous for so many reasons:

They are durable.

These clothes are made for women leading active lifestyles, so the fabrics and stitching are designed to take some serious wear and tear. As someone who can rip and snag with the best of ‘em, I appreciate truly durable clothes.

They are washable.

Nothing dry cleanable here, friends! Fabrics are selected for washability and ease of care. With the exception of a few linen pieces, most stuff is wrinkle-free and ideal for packing and travel, too.

They are comfortable.

Although these are street wear garments, they are aimed at a very active consumer base. So no itchy fibers, constricting waistbands, or digging seams. Fabrics are typically soft and breathable.

They make the concept of wearing a dress less stressful.

I mean, if you hate dresses, forget it. But if you’re an active mom, do lots of outdoor work, or have a lifestyle that makes delicate, frilly dresses impractical, you may have written off the entire garment category. But these dresses – especially the Title Nine ones like their classic Tomboy Dress – are durable, washable, and comfortable! They are MEANT to get dirty and messy, then thrown in the wash.

They are NOT cheap, but they are well made.

My Athleta dresses have been washed and worn dozens of times and they are still kicking. My Horny Toad dress has been wadded up in suitcases, scrubbed for stains, and worn through weather both hot and cold. I’ve only ever handled and tried on Title Nine duds, but in person they feel and look amazing and beautifully constructed. You won’t find anything at Target bargain prices, but this stuff won’t fall apart after two seasons of wear.

I have had clients who have many young children at home, clients who work in dirty stockrooms and don’t want to ruin their good duds, clients who need to go from classroom to field in a heartbeat. And I’ve pointed them ALL to these three brands for dresses, tops, skirts, and pants. Anyone who worries about being hard on her clothes might find a few great items at any of these retailers.

Are you a fan of the street wear produced by athletic clothing companies? Ever poked around AthletaHorny Toad, or Title Nine?

Image courtesy Athleta.

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

{ 44 comments }

Insomniac Sale Picks: Tissue Tees

by Sally on April 17, 2013 · 6 comments

*In this late-night feature – which will run Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week – I’ll gather up three fun items that are currently on sale online and share them with you! I would LOVE suggestions: Stylish wide-width pumps? Classic v-necked sweaters? Chandelier earrings? Petite dress slacks? What would you like to see featured?*

Ruth requested a few picks for tissue tees, so here we go:

bella tissue tee

Bella Tissue Jersey T Shirt – was $26, now $25.90 – $8.43

As you likely know, I’m a big fan of all things Bella. I tend to stick to their rib knits, but the brand has never done me wrong so I feel sure this tissue tee will deliver. Bella tees run small and long, so be aware when ordering. (Size chart here.) Available in pale pink, brown, black, white, and navy in sizes S – XXL. Size availability varies by color.

jcrew factory tissue tee

J.Crew Factory Tissue Tee – was $26.50, now $12.50

Ruth was hoping for scoop necks and this one is a bit more of a crew, but scoops are in short supply right now! This style also runs long in the torso, so potentially better for pairing with pants. Or for tall women! Available in citron, cobalt, black, red, navy, emerald green, coral, and purple in sizes XXS – XL. Size availability varies by color.

cn5840866

Gap Essential Short Sleeve U Neck T – was $19.95, now $15

Although Gap doesn’t specify this as a tissue tee, reviewers all agree that it’s quite lightweight and even a bit sheer. And it’s available in tall and petite sizes! Comes in mint, white, black, navy, heather gray, and coral in sizes XS – XXL. Size availability varies by color.

Other not-currently-on-sale resources for tissue tees:

  1. J.Crew and J.Crew Factory – When I think tissue tees, I think J.Crew. If the prices are a bit rich, try the Factory options … or wait for a sale. Seems like J.Crew gives 30% off approximately every other day.
  2. Athleta – I was surprised to find that this athleticwear company offers long- and short-sleeved tissue-weight cotton tees!
  3. Target – A less expensive choice, with long- and short-sleeved options.
  4. Nordstrom – Designer and embellished, but also affordable basics like house brand Caslon.
  5. And, of course, THRIFT STORES! Most secondhand shops are drowning in tees, and tissue styles have been trendy for several years. Worth a look! (thethriftshopper.com can help you locate stores near you.)

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

{ 6 comments }

Insomniac Sale Picks: Warm Maxi Skirts

by Sally on February 20, 2013 · 5 comments

*In this late-night feature – which will run Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week – I’ll gather up three fun items that are currently on sale online and share them with you! I would LOVE suggestions: Stylish wide-width pumps? Classic v-necked sweaters? Chandelier earrings? Petite dress slacks? What would you like to see featured?*

Heather requested a few picks for warm maxi skirts, so here we go:

1833901-1-MULTIVIEW

Patagonia Serenity Skirt – was $65, now $51.99

OK, so let’s kick this off by saying that the two best ways to make maxis warm are as follows: Layer a lightweight maxi skirt under a slightly heavier maxi dress or skirt (like a petticoat) OR wear silk longjohns and tall boots under your maxi. In order to get the proper drape and flow, most maxis are VERY light! Tried to track down a few options, but bear those two suggestions in mind for any maxi you wear in winter. Moving on …

I prefer a fuller, drapier maxi for my own figure, but this straighter cut is preferred silhouette for some. Since this style keeps your legs closer to each other, it’s warmer by design! This version is made from organic cotton, so although it has a side slit it will be heavy and cozy. Available in gray, ivory, and black in sizes XS- XL. Size availability varies by color. (Black and ivory are full price.)

cn5835312

Hive & Honey Foldover Knit Maxi Skirt – was $59, now $49.50

Reviews of this skirt are mixed and it sounds like the prints don’t line up along the hems, but this is one of the few lined maxi skirts I could dig up. It’s also 70% cotton, which will give it a bit more weight than it’s mainly rayon/poly friends. Available in this purple, mint chevron, and yellow chevron on sale, black chevron and teal at full price in sizes XS – L. Size availability varies by color.

cn5291307
Athleta Danu Maxi Skirt – was $69, now $54.99

PRETTY. I love the circular seams and subtle ruffle on this sueded Tactel, ultra-breathable skirt. It’s described as “Midweight, double sueded, velvety soft.” Sounds good to me! Available in this gray, red, olive, black, and purple in sizes XXS – XL. Also available in petites and tall sizes. Size availability varies by color.

Other not-currently-on-sale resources for warm maxi skirts:

  1. Zappos – With a huge variety of styles, there are some terrific warm options like this heavier cotton one.
  2. ASOS – In among the diaphanous skirts are a few warmer ones like this ponte knit version.
  3. Orvis – Depending on your height, some of these may be more midi than maxi, but with denim and heavy cotton versions, it’s worth a look
  4. And, of course, THRIFT STORES! Maxis from years past are generally heavier than today’s lightweight knits. (thethriftshopper.com can help you locate stores near you.)

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

{ 5 comments }

Insomniac Sale Picks: Warm A-line Skirts

by Sally on January 30, 2013 · 5 comments

*In this late-night feature – which will run Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week – I’ll gather up three fun items that are currently on sale online and share them with you! I would LOVE suggestions: Stylish wide-width pumps? Classic v-necked sweaters? Chandelier earrings? Petite dress slacks? What would you like to see featured?*

Bubu requested a few picks for warm A-line skirts, so here we go:

cn5234086

Banana Republic Monogram Pleated Skirt – was $98, now $79.99

I’ve got my eye on this skirt in gray. It’s pleated but not super full, fully lined, and made from a wool/poly blend that should block the wind nicely. Available in sizes 00 – 14 (sold out in 12 and 16). Also available in heather gray in sizes 0 – 14.

~dlvI

Jones New York A-Line Skirt with CF Box Pleat – was $129, now $44.99

This wool blend skirt doesn’t seem to be lined, but thick material and fiber content are in its favor for warmth. Add a silk slip for extra coziness. Available in sizes 4 – 16.

cn5292819

Athleta Strata Skirt – was $64, now $29.99

This skirt is neither lined nor wool, but a nice, double-knit ponte. Paired with a slip and cozy tights, and it’ll work through winter and well into spring. Available in sizes XXS – XL in this red, olive, black, and charcoal heather. Some colors not on sale, and size availability varies by color. Also available in petite, tall, and plus sizes!

Other not-currently-on-sale resources for warm A-line skirts:

  1. Boden – A go-to for lined wool skirts, many of which are currently on sale!
  2. Banana Republic – Many of my staple winter skirts hail from BR. Look for wool, wool blends, and lined options like this one.
  3. Orvis – The vast majority of skirts are below-the-knee, so be aware. Many are lined and all are top-quality.
  4. And, of course, THRIFT STORES! Especially right now, the vast majority of skirts will be lined wool. Hit ‘em up before the spring merchandise rolls out. (thethriftshopper.com can help you locate stores near you.)

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

{ 5 comments }

Dressed for: A Classic Combo

by Sally on January 29, 2013 · 14 comments

Already Pretty outfit featuring polka dot cardigan, vintage silk scarf, red stud belt, Rebecca Minkoff MAB Mini, black skater dress

Cardigan – courtesy Sierra Trading Post (no longer available) – similar
Dress – Athleta (no longer available) – similar
Belt – Walgreens (no longer available) – similar
Tights – Express
Pumps - Tsubo Dufay courtesy Tsubo
Bag - Rebecca Minkoff Studded Mab Mini - via eBay
Scarf – vintage/thrifted – similar colors/pattern
Earrings – art fair - similar

I think of black and red as a classic mix of colors. Not quite a cop-out, but definitely a standby. Throwing in a little white, gray, or leopard keeps things interesting, and incorporating patterns pushes the envelope just a bit further.

What color combos do you consider classic? Any pairings or groupings that you rely on regularly?

polkacardi_details

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

{ 14 comments }

*In this late-night feature – which will run Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each week – I’ll gather up three fun items that are currently on sale online and share them with you! I would LOVE suggestions: Stylish wide-width pumps? Classic v-necked sweaters? Chandelier earrings? Petite dress slacks? What would you like to see featured?*

Kaitlin requested a few picks for cozy lounge pant alternatives, so here we go:

ak

Anne Klein Fleece-Lined Legging – was $32, now $28.99

When folks ask about upgrading loungewear, I generally suggest leggings and tunics as an alternative to sweats and tees. Fleece-lined leggings are a great idea for cold winter days and nights. Now, I looked at dozens of pairs, and most had a few customer complaints – including these, which come in black, charcoal, brown, and navy – but I included these because TONS of styles were one size fits all, which is just silly. These come in S/M and M/L which is slightly better. For a higher rating, these Anthro ones are only $18 but not on sale.

rr

RACHEL Rachel Roy Pleated Sweatpant – was $89, now $59.99

If you prefer a looser silhouette but want something more interesting than the typical flat-front, wide-leg yoga pants, these pleated sweatpants are a fun alternative. They’ve got a nice high rise, front pockets, and tapered legs for a trendy silhouette. I love them with a graphic tee, as shown here. Available in sizes XS- XL.

qvc

Women with Control Ponte di Roma Hollywood Waist Pants – was $47, now $35.12

For more casual offices and workdays, these pants can dress up beautifully, but a high-waisted pair of cozy, stretchy ponte pants is a great option for lounging. There are skinny and straight legs galore, but I wanted a bootcut offering for tonights picks. These come in black, brown, gray, orange, and khaki in sizes XXS- 3X. Size availability varies by color. (Also available in petite and tall sizes.) Although the name implies shapewear traits, these simply have a “Tushy Lifter™ seam, a seaming detail in the back of the pant.”

Other not-currently-on-sale resources for cozy lounge pant alternatives:

  1. Athleta – Although this vendor specializes in workout wear, their streetwear offerings are generally top-notch and ride the casual/polished line quite well. These pants are a standout, with stretchy fabric and cargo detailing.
  2. Horny Toad – Along the same lines as Athleta, but with more of a focus on active non-sport life. These pocketed pants are a step up from yoga styles.
  3. Old Navy - Their lounge line includes gauchos, fleece pants, and a few other styles.

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

{ 4 comments }

Dressed for: Tickly Breezes

by Sally on July 31, 2012 · 9 comments

Already Pretty outfit featuring Athleta dress, Eileen Fisher bubble scarf, perforated boots, Banana Republic hobo bag

Dress, Athleta (no longer available) - similar shape/style
Scarf, courtesy Eileen Fisher (no longer available) – similar style
Boots, BC Footwear In the Mood (no longer available) – more perforated boots
Wrap bracelet, Quince - similar
Earrings, via Opitzsimilar

This was the first time I hauled out the perforated boots this summer, and I was immediately reminded that they tickle. OK, the boots themselves don’t tickle, but the feeling of a screened breeze hitting the calves feels surprisingly tickly. The boots provide a marvelous way to downplay unshaven legs while still allowing for ventilation. Ahhhh.

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

{ 9 comments }

Dressed for: Radio, Radio

by Sally on July 11, 2012 · 8 comments

Already Pretty outfit featuring polka dot blazer, LBD, red peeptoe wedges, turquoise necklace, rhinestone bracelet, Marc by Marc Jacobs Turnlock bag

Polka dot blazer, thrifted – more polka dot blazers
Dress, Athleta (no longer available) – similar
Pumps – Bronx Dance Hall - via Ideeli
Necklace, Clemoon - similar
Bracelet, J.Crew (no longer available) - similar
Earrings, Noir via Ideeli - similar
Bag, Marc by Marc Jacobs via eBay - more turnlock bags

I wore this to chat with Allison Kaplan and Alexis Walsko over at Shop Girls on Saturday morning. We gabbed about figure flattery, style consults, and, of course, my book. We even got to take a few listener calls! Such fun! I’ve done a bunch of radio and TV appearances, but they’re always a thrill.

Husband Mike couldn’t accompany me into the studio, of course, but we snuck a few shots outside. Nothing says media like a bunch of dishes on an industrial roof.

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

{ 8 comments }