Introducing Lolë: The Activewear Brand You’ll Love

I work out a lot and pretty much live in activewear while not at work. A little sick of looking like I was constantly about to bust out a set of bicep curls or run a marathon, I decided to step it up and head to Lolë.

I’ve noticed that “athleisure” has hit the scene in a huge way. Heading to the local café, shopping and even drinks, I’m noticing chic ladies sporting awesome activewear looks even when they aren’t working out. Be it leggings paired with a sports bra under a chambray shirt or a cropped tank with skinnies and cute boots, people are rocking the performance wear look all over the place.

LOLË OUTFIT DETAILS  

Lolë Leggings – sold out online (available in-store): similar here | Maeko Top | Lily Tote Bag | Venus S’Well Bottle (available in-store)

I love how Lolë has upped the activewear game. “Lolë” – which stands for “Live Out Loud Everyday” – offers athleisure and activewear that is fresh, modern and high-quality. Tops are made with soft, luxurious fabrics. Leggings fit like a dream with their thick waist bands that hold in the tummy. In addition, they are made with high quality fabric that isn’t see-through so you aren’t flashing anyone while downward-dogging. The entire line is well thought out and beautifully designed. Best of all (for me and many other lovers of pretty things), their designs and prints are fun and cool! I mean, it’s easy to get motivated to work out when you look awesome! Check out their gorgeous Sierra Leggings and sexy cropped Erica Leggings to see what I mean!

Lolë doesn’t stop at clothing. They also offer yoga mats, bags, shoes, scarves and swim wear, as well as other branded merchandise by  Yoga Jeans, S’Well and a variety of jewelry. By the way, their swimwear is some of the best I’ve ever tried. Bikinis are comfortable, super flattering, and sold as separates for those of us who aren’t a size 0 from head to toe.

I attended the grand opening of the Lolë store at Ottawa’s Rideau Centre and had a blast dining on sushi, sipping bubbly and trying on their latest collection. I also had the privilege of interviewing Bernard Mariette, CEO, Lolë. Warm and friendly with a delightful French accent, Bernard spoke to me about what the Lolë brand is all about.

Bernard, a lover of fashion and sports, wanted to ensure that Lolë activewear was a perfect “mix of casual with sporty chicness”. He hired a high-end fashion designer to lend the activewear a special edge and ensure a nice meld of fashion and function.

Lolë’s products always meet their four top criteria which all respect the environment (like their leggings made of recycled plastic water bottles):

1. Versatile, multi-purpose, great value for the money and a great lifestyle investment;
2. Functional garments outfitted with details to support favourite activities;
3. Designed with a feminine approach that makes women feel beautiful inside and out; and
4. Made for comfort and freedom of movement

Bernard also wanted Lolë’s stores to have a certain feel. A lover of online shopping, he was never one for retail spaces. He knew he had to have them though, so ensured that each store had a homey feel to it. For instance, the Ottawa store features solid, heavy kitchen tables displaying the latest offerings including leg warmers, S’Well bottles and mala necklaces. Their stores are simultaneously calm and relaxing, yet colourful and fun with their signature pops of yellow. Each store also features a space for yoga classes and other workout sessions such as Zumba.

Another thing I love about Lolë are their massive yoga meet-ups (White Tours) held in international locations. In fact, Bernard was very proud as he told me that his yogi wife taught the Paris Lolë White Tour…get this…under the Eiffel Tower. HOW COOL IS THAT?

I also spoke to David Kutas, VP, Retail and Franchise. David explained to me that it was important that the brand was homegrown and remained sustainable. I mentioned to David that one of the things I loved about the Lolë brand was their inclusive marketing which featured women of all colours, shapes and sizes. It’s nice to be able to see great clothing on people we can all relate to.

Go ahead and check out this fantastic eco-conscious and sustainable brand. Their Ottawa location is open and located in the new addition of the Rideau Centre, top floor. Treat yourself to some new and awesome Lolë threads, enjoy their interactive space featuring a sitting area where you can relax while shopping or check out their in-store community area filled with iPads. Lolë has a beautiful Instagram account too!

*A huge thank you to Lolë for having me and for providing the awesome activewear in exchange for my honest opinion.