In June 2018, REI held a trunk show called, "Less Labels, More Sizes." A year ago, they announced that they are leading the change toward closing the gap in women's outdoor gear.
If you've read some of my blog over the years or interacted with me regarding my sewn garments, you know that this gap is one of the biggest reasons that drove me to sew. From the dance world to hiking gear, surfing on the ocean to proper protective gear for my skating, there just has not been anything that I could semi-fit and take in for alteration, let along fit on more than my right arm. For years, that told me that I didn't belong outdoors. Ultimately, that didn't stop me. But it's definitely been a journey and taken time and plenty of distraction by my hunting for the most unusual wildflowers to help me devote more and more time outdoors irregardless of the gap in clothing and gear offerings.
If you've read some of my blog over the years or interacted with me regarding my sewn garments, you know that this gap is one of the biggest reasons that drove me to sew. From the dance world to hiking gear, surfing on the ocean to proper protective gear for my skating, there just has not been anything that I could semi-fit and take in for alteration, let along fit on more than my right arm. For years, that told me that I didn't belong outdoors. Ultimately, that didn't stop me. But it's definitely been a journey and taken time and plenty of distraction by my hunting for the most unusual wildflowers to help me devote more and more time outdoors irregardless of the gap in clothing and gear offerings.
As one of my blog readers, you probably also recall that REI and Nordstrom are 2 of the stores I am willing to invest my money into. I believe that they offer some garments that are designed to last for many, many years. For example, my "gortex" like jacket is from REI in size 2X. I didn't buy my current jacket until the last one had worn out so fully that water would run through the seams. I prefer to wear them out beyond repair. That Jacket I owned for over 10 years. Likewise, I have 2 pair of jeans that I bought from Nordstrom's probably 15 years ago that fit everywhere but the waist and I took them to an excellent alterationist.
Ultimately, they believe in Quality + Lastability + Durability and so do I. When I invest my time in making a garment, I make it with those same principles in mind.
As you can see, not only do I sew, but I am a customer too. So, I was completely tickled to be part of the conversation.
I got to meet a couple of the pattern drafters/designers for REI, a few folks from Brooks who were involved with their Sports Bra development and several lovely folks from various areas of Columbia.
Ultimately, they believe in Quality + Lastability + Durability and so do I. When I invest my time in making a garment, I make it with those same principles in mind.
As you can see, not only do I sew, but I am a customer too. So, I was completely tickled to be part of the conversation.
I got to meet a couple of the pattern drafters/designers for REI, a few folks from Brooks who were involved with their Sports Bra development and several lovely folks from various areas of Columbia.
And, super exciting, I got to meet Mirna, aka The Mirnavator. What an inspiration.
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