I was introduced to lululemon by my sister, Liza, a brilliant ballerina, now yoga and Pilates instructor, among other things... She took me shopping in the lululemon store in Montreal for the first time about 4 years ago. We don’t have a lululemon store here in Las Vegas and I guess that my sense of withdrawal is what prompted this post. Every time I go back to visit (Montreal being my hometown), I make sure to drop by the store and check out what’s new. No matter what time of day, the store is always packed with items quite literally flying off the shelves.
Why do I like this company’s athletic clothing? Well, I like their designs, colors, fit, quality, thoughtful details (like that little pocket that fits a single key). I like the chafe-free flat seams and the wicking/quick dry fabrics. The staff is always cheery and the store’s atmosphere uplifting. I guess that I was subconsciously noticing something imperceptible too in each store visit, like the “energy”. Indeed, here is an excerpt from the corporate culture page of the lululemon website: “The LAW OF ATTRACTION is the fundamental law that lululemon was built on from its 1998 inception. All our training and culture is predicated on developing great people so we can attract great people. This is not marketing lip service. Just ask the people who work with us. Our vision is “to elevate the world from mediocrity to greatness” and we are growing so we can train more people and spread the word of the “The Secret” – which to us at lululemon is not so secret.” Working much on that premise myself, I like that.
Unfortunately the corporate lululemon website does not sell online. If they have a store in your city, check it out, if not, look for it when you travel or find an independent retailer that carries the brand. The items are somewhat pricey but will last forever. I still have all my original items and they are in perfect condition. Some of their best selling styles, now deemed to be classics, are still available. Here are some of my favorite pieces:
The Gather Tank (left) is my favorite of all because it is long, almost tunic length and doesn't ride up. I don't have to adjust it down after every downward dog. The Whisper Tank is one of the first tops that I got at lululemon and has incredibly flattering fit. But if your breasts are slightly abundant, be warned, you will find yourself more sultry looking than intended during the twisting poses.
My favorite bottoms are the Hip Pants, with their flared bottoms, help counter my weighty hips and thighs. Oh well, I'm working on it... And in summer, I love their cropped pants. I would rather die than be found wearing shorts. Not gonna happen. Cropped pants is as far as I will go. Gotta protect the innocent.
The Lulu Hoodie is another classic that I love. Even bought one for my 10 year old in XS adult size. It's still a little big for her and sleeves are way too long, but she loves it and relishes the fact that she will grow into it and still have it for years to come. I have a matching one. She loves that we can play twins. And this skirt, although i don't personally own one, a friend of mine does, and it makes for a totally adorable cover up over shorts or bathing suit or even as a cute ensemble with a coordinate tank or tee.
I'm really partial to this brand and the fact that it's Canadian also makes me very proud. That and Cirque du Soleil.
