From all the comments I've read I get the sense that the scales have fallen from quite a few people's eyes and their spending is unlikely to return to their previous lululemon peak. Aside from the drastic drop in quality and not feeling valued as a customer anymore, many people feel the brand is over-exposed and are tired of walking into a class where three other people have the same top on. Many also feel the colors are being repeated too often (hello neon yellows), that designs have become too pedestrian, that the number of different styles have been greatly reduced (tanks especially), and that the brand has become a little too "young" and lacking in sophistication.
So, by how much has your spending on lululemon decreased? What other brands have you turned to and, more importantly, do you think you will ever go back to spending so much on lululemon again?
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| Under Armour's Studio Lux Capris |
Update/Follow Up - So I slummed it to a Dick's Sporting Goods this morning after writing this post and tried on some Under Amour Studio Lux, Nike, and Prana stuff. I did not like the UA Studio Lux. It's soft but all polyester and it seems like it would pill up on me and be hot for the gym. That was my impression anyway. I did like the one Prana tank I tried on a lot - it was the Quinn Chakara Tank in charcoal. The material and fit seemed the most lulu-like of all. The price is also lulu-like at $60 retail. The Prana bottoms I tried on were ok and would probably be the brand I'd choose if I shopped at a big box store. The other item I really liked was a pair of Nike Gym Seamless crops, $60. They seemed like Nike's version of Ebb and Flows since they were a seamless knit material made of a nylon/spandex blend. They were a little on the shiney side compared to E&F crops but I definitely want to take another look at these. They also come in a royal blue color which seem more matte than the black.
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| Prana Quinn Chakara Tank |
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| Nike Gym Seamless Crops |
136 comments:
I use to spend $200 approx a week, and now I can't remember the last thing I bought from lulu, maybe before Christmas.
Sad to see what has happened to this brand. But, great for my pocket book!
I agree...and I spend way less than I used to. My Lulu dollars are going mostly towards Zella at Nordstrom and Gap Fit.
The good thing is the vintage Lulu items I have are lasting so I can still wear them! The new ones...snags and rips, not so much.
I hope they wake up soon!
Jill
Classy with a Kick
My non-Lulu money has been going to: a few Nike pieces that they sell exclusively at my Nike Training Club store for women in Chicago...as well as some Patagonia, Under Armour and Lucy.
The only thing I bought from Lulu since September was a Pinkelicious Energy Bra. It's not even my favorite pink as I'd prefer a richer depth to the color, but I've wanted an EB and regrettably missed out on Frond. I used to spend probably about $200/month. Even that waxed and waned throughout 2012.
So now I snag Athleta, prAna, Hardtail and Lole as I did before I found Lulu. At least the mark downs are generous. And bonus to Lole and prAna as I can buy those on serious discount on the clearance websites like 6pm, Derailed, Department of Goods, Sierra Trading Post. Last year's high quality is this year's treasure. Muah!
Lorna Jane is only is Australia right? So you have to pay for shipping from there, from what I understand. Has anyone done this? Experiences? I love their stuff.
I have to say...although, I'm still seeing bleeding, I do think the ladies at my local Austin Lulu Stores are amazing. They are so cool, and are always quick to correct a problem, so I am still pretty loyal. I have been eyeing some really cute crops on Altheta though, and I do like that you can workout in them to give them a try first. I wear a size 4 in Lulu crops...I'm wondering if that is XS or S in Altheta.
@ lulu5coats - Lorna Jane has stores in the US now.
How cool are those StudioLux crops!!! UA makes a jacket from that same fabric, but the jacket is $90. I think my tolerance for high-priced items has crumbled.
Lately I've been spending my my money on Athleta for running and yoga crops because I know no matter what, they will honor me as a customer. They will adjust prices, not charge me to ship back an item that fell apart, didn't fit properly, etc. They have sales sometimes, and not final sale-type sales. They will be NICE to me over the phone and in the store.
I also dabble in Under Armour, YogaSmoga, Zobha, prAna and buy a lot of Nike because I can get it at sporting goods stores or online retailers with discounts.
I am getting tired of Lululemon for the reasons you described. The fact is, I have so many different items for every temperature/season/mood/activity that I don't need anything else, so selectivity with purchases was going to happen regardless of which companies I purchase from.
I agree with all of the reasons you stated, LLA - the deteriorating quality is the main reason for decline in my spending, but I've been less forgiving than I might have been because the color palette and designs have not appealed to me. And lulu jumped the shark in a big way the minute I started seeing it on middle schoolers. I've tried many of the brands you mention, and so far the best one for me has been Kira Grace for yoga and gym wear, but that still leaves me without a run-specific option. I still hold out hope that lulu will return to its former glory - a scarcity model that means I may miss out on some things I love but I won't be wearing the same thing as everyone else - and quality and designs that make it worth the price. Also, let's be honest, half the fun is the fact that lulu uploads on a weekly basis (vs. the usual seasonal model of 4-6x/year), which feeds the constant spending and "addiction" - and none of these other companies do that!
@ Lulu5coats: You would want an XS in Athleta.
It was spending close to $200.00 per week between regular and outlet stores.
Now I am spending about that per month. I see it continuing to decrease.
It haven't turned to anything new yet. Yoga smogs intrigues me, but I love the Luxtreme material so much and no place has matched that in my opinion.
As a fitness instructor, I can't risk being uncomfortable and untrusting of a product in my classes... So I will wait and live off of my own ridiculous stash until some better comes along or lulu fixes things.
Oh! I guess I could add that my lulu money has been going towards upgrading gear. It hiking and backpacking season. I got a new polar with all the gadgets, as well as some fun stuff. REI makes bank off of my husband and I, but that's nothing new ;)
I too use to buy quite a bit of lulu but haven't gone into a store for quite some time. I find myself visiting this board less and less and no longer check the what's new section. The brand has really gotten overexposed at my gym and the quailty well just isn't good. Lulu has sort of gone the way of Coach bags where they've destroyed their image with mass produced cheaply made crap riding on their once good image.
I've turned to Athleta, good customer service and items. At least I know if I buy something and it falls apart or bleeds they will accept it back without issue.
lulu5coats fyi...I wear a 4 in lulu and xs in athleta, I'm 5'5" and 110 lbs..
I really like their chatarunga crops, good length and fabric and around 50 bucks. I could probably go with an xxs in those but the xs is good.
as a twenty something who regularly "hits the club" and lives in a college town, i don't think the designs are young. they're just plain tacky. i have yet to find a replacement for feminine workout clothes so I'm directing my money towards high-end fine jewelry, shoes, and purses. i just purchased a locket pendant at tiffany's for ~$1600 yesterday which is about 1-1.5 months of lulu purchases during the good times. even if the quality and designs improved, i doubt i will waste so much money on athletic clothes anymore. unlike a lot of people i don't find the resale rates to be that great even though most items i had purchased were quick to sellout. it was a good wake up call for me.
Ebay is getting my $$ now. Dammit why didn't I buy another Define or 2 when I could from Lulu. Now you pay obscene amounts of $ for them, or they are obvious fakes.
I am buying more shoes, now that you mention it. I think it was unconsciously. I bought 3 pairs of Nikes in the last ~ 6 weeks. eek!
I got 2 power Y in the reg. old Luon a few weeks ago. Before that, it was a pair of the alberta lake DSP in Loot. I'm very wary of Lulu these days. That started before "Pantsgate" Quality has been going downhill for sometime. And then add to that the juvenile prints. Blech. I'm 37 and I don't want my kids babysitter to wear the same stuff as me. And those new purple & black groovy shorts look like something she would wear. Get it together Lulu.
Those UA crops are super cute. I might have to check them out :)
--Tracy
When I come to visit the US I hit Athleta, but I do find the fit isn't quite right for me.
I won't buy One Tooth, I've had too much stuff that shrinks on the first wash from there.
I've bought a few bits from Yoga Smoga but they're on back order.
My old Lulu stuff is lasting really well, but I've lost weight and now can't wear them.
I started buying Lulu because it lasted and was reliable, I wear this stuff all day every day as an instructor and I need it do do what it says on the packet! It not a fashion accessory for me, it's my work clothes.
When everything is coming out sheer either by design or otherwise it's no longer practical as work wear. I haven't had any of the new stuff I've bought fall apart yet, but I am finding that I have to be increasingly aware that their clothing is either sheer, made for 13 year olds, or seems to have fallen apart for other people and if that's the case then I just don't buy it.
I'm not recommending their stuff to my clients like I used to, in fact I'm telling them to check the seams and do bend over tests if they do buy from Lulu. That's crazy for a brand that likes to look upon itself as a luxury.
I'm a bit stuck though, I'm in Canada and there really aren't very many companies that will ship here without charging stupid money or that will even ship here at all.
I'm sort of a lulu newbie, so have never gotten into it that much but have but the "vintage" lulu from ebay, etc. I've been spending most of my money at Nike and Gap Fit. Gap always has awesome online sales and I can find a lot of Nike stuff on clearance at Dick's etc.
I have bought four lulu pieces this year, which pales in comparison to years prior - as many of you can relate. I hate all the new designs and the insane color pairings. I am happy to say that my work wardrobe has benefitted greatly from the lulu decline, and I have moved on to shopping almost exclusively at Nordstrom. Because customer service actually DOES matter, Christine.
My spending has dropped off by at least by half in the past 6 months. In the past month it's dropped off completely. I was so horrified to see that they were still selling sheer pants (the white and blue striped ones...horrible) after all of the press that I actually brought back a pair of studio pants on principle. I still go in to the store since its so convenient for me but I always leave feeling that I don't really belong there anymore. I no longer covet other peoples lulu wear at the gym but I'm now impressed by people who are wearing non-lulu items. Canada is a tough market though - lulu kind of has us all hostage. We are way less saavy (at least I am) about shopping on line and returning. Lulu in just convenient and has free shipping... I would say my lulu relationship is kind of like a bad boyfriend you know is all wrong for you but it's just so easy to stay with them : (
I'm still buying lulu, but not in the quantity that I used to. I have been buying much more Athleta (really recommend the Revelation tights and crops for a luon-ish feel; also like the chaturanga tights/crops but they have a silkier feel so if you like the cotton-like feel you might not like the chats. Am not in love with the tanks, though), Zella (love the Live In legging/crops; just ordered a couple of tanks to try -- fyi promotion going on right now for a free pair of Live In crops with any $100 Zella purchase) Splits59, and Karma. Karma has been hitting it out of the park lately, in my opinion, from a stylistic standpoint. I basically want everything in the entire Karma spring/summer line.
I have only purchased four lulu pieces this year, and I am not planning on buying anything else. The designs are ridiculous, the material laughable, and the alternatives abundant. I've moved on to VSX, as I find their clothing functional and pocketbook friendly. But to be honest, I have kind of stopped buying so much althetic gear altogether and am instead focusing now on my professional wardrobe, which suffered during the 2010-2011 peak of lulu buying madness. I remember being in a work meeting and watching the lulu upload happen. now that, friends, was ridiculous, but showed just how loyal and excited about the brand i was. now, it's pretty much crickets from me.
Those UA crops are CUUTE! My Lulu $ has been spent on eBay and men's shorts at a strategic partner store. I've had a LLL g.c. in my wallet for a month now, and haven't seen the need to spend it on anything. Lulu has jumped the shark... tiny purple floral print? No thanks.
When i first started buying Lulu over two years ago, I was spending easily $300+ a month. In the past 8 months, it's dropped to $80-$100 a month. No one is getting my business anymore; I just heavily use my current collection. ;)
Has anyone tried Tonic? they have some cute tops, and I've seen a hot yoga teacher at my studio in them, but I have no idea if it's actually good stuff.
I still spend money on lulu but mostly just tops (CRBs, power ys, swiftlies, etc). I probably won't be returning back to lulu pants, especially after finding Zella. I'm boring and really only wear black bottoms, so I like their black live in leggings. I kept one non-sheer pair of WU crops that I will wear too. So I have a little extra money to play around with for tops and accessories because I'm not spending close to $100 on pants anymore. I wasn't really a lulu fan during "vintage" lulu so i don't have anything to compare it to. I bought a very green power Y that was luon but I took it back because I prefer my tops a little longer. I like how the luon light power y's fit (probably making vintage lulus cringe, sorry ladies) I also don't mind the really bright colors they have been coming out with but this is coming for a 23 year old. My mom (she's close to 50) has moved away from Lulu with the exception of the CRBs for Zella when it comes to buying pants and jackets. A few of the malls that I frequent have Lorna Jane and I'm just not a fan on it, I've never tried it on but walking in the stores, I just don't like it. I generally save my money until lulu has something that I like.
this is a great post! thanks so much - i've actually been searching for different brands - i can't wait to check out each of the ones you posted here. i use to spend about 1,000 per month on lll (crazy i know) but i run, do yoga and also just like some of the clothes for general wear. lately i have bought only a few staples, the crb (swiftly tanks) pace setter skirts and energy + free to be bras - that is it. i have not purchased a pr of bottoms from lulu (except the pacesetters) in such a long time - i have however scored a few awesome older bottoms (new with tags) from ebay. the reason is all of what you listed above, lll is arrogant, values the customer so little, is condescending - read any response to a feedback post - it's fake and nauseating - i know i'll never return to my old spending levels unless lll 1) returned to their old quality/design but more important 2)reevaluated how they value and treat customers. i'm going right now to the UA site b/c those capris you posted look awesome!
I have been purchasing Lulu for over 6 years, a long time before their online store opened. I have a sizeable collection and have stopped purchasing. The shipping takes at least 9 days to get to my house, which I find very annoying, even the 2 day FedEx they offered before Christmas. The sizes aren't quite so standard anymore, the quality on some items is terrible and the exclusivity of it has gone. I used to be the only person wearing it at my gym, and now almost everybody has some pieces. I liked wearing different things, and nobody used to know what Lulu was. So no purchases this year, just wearing my "vintage" items from years past. Haven't found a new athletic company yet, but did enjoy Sak's friends and family sale this past week.
Unless Lulu really turns it around, I don't have a lot of desire to keep shopping there. I've not found any other athletic clothing company that compares to Lulu's good stuff, which is such a bummer time.
It was nothing for me to spend $50 to $100 every week or so at Lulu and now, nothing. Even deeply discounted shirts ($19?) I find myself wondering if I'd rather just go get lunch instead.
Makes me sad. Cute workout clothes really make going to the gym so much more enjoyable. I guess I need to find other motivating tactics.
My Husband is happy that I've spent more money on Jcrew lately...back to the world of nice jeans and t-shirts for me!
Slightly it, but if I wear a 4 in Lulu, what size kiras grace?
Yeah, I am a 6 or 8 in LuLu bottoms and just bought my first pair at Athleta this weekend (at my husband's prompting, I might add - he thought the mannekin looked awesome!) and I fit into XS no problem.
@lulu5coats - I wear a 4 in lulu and an xs in athleta
Just tried Yogasmoga and some adidas pieces actually!
My spending has gone down significantly. I used to buy my staple lululemon items (CRB's) and then get suckered into the next hoodie/wrap/jacket/specialty piece on top of the essentials. Since there have been so few of those specialty pieces (cashmere wraps, hoodies, tees etc) and such huge changes to core pieces, that spending budget has moved on to none athletic items AND exploring other brands
I wear 4 in lulu. I am 5'4" 110lb 34B. I wear x small in athleta and occasionally Xx small in skirts. Hope this helps!
@LuluAddict - Thanks! Very good to know!!!
I've been buying more UA stuff - I love their stuff! I like my Yogasmogas and could see myself getting more. Kyodan, and a few other brands I find at Winners are getting my money lately, as well as vintage Lulu on the FB and buy/sell groups.
I'm almost embarassed to wear Lulu these days. I was teased by a grocery store clerk (middle aged man nonetheless) a few weeks ago when I pulled out a Lulu reusable bag - he looked inside and asked if it was see-through as well! And I was wearing Grooves, and the lady behind me in line was just laughing.
Now, I don't let something like that upset me, but it did make me think a bit.
Now all my reversable pants I wear logo side-in so you can't see the logo. I also try not to wear head-to-toe Lulu unless I can hide the logo.
I'm very disappointed in the company and brand. I used to feel "special" in my Lulu. Now I feel like a bit of a chump sometimes. And no, I'll never go back to spending the amount of money I used to on LLL.
I just bought a pair of the YogaSmoga tippy toe tights. I'm still testing them out, but it is unlikely that I will buy any more luon pants from LLL unless I hear reports from this blog that the quality is back to 2006 (or previous) standards. I have enough luon pants and crops to last for now. If I start to need more yoga/Pilates/barre tights, then I might try more YogaSmoga until LLL gets their act together.
I have and will continue to buy the occasional CRB in colors or patterns that speak to me (and aren't see-through). Can you ever really have enough tank tops?... Me thinks not.
I would give LLL some money if they released a functional and cute running skirt besides the Pacesetter, but none of the skirts have interested me in over a year. I might also purchase a pair of patterned turbos, but they'd have to be just right.
I've been spending substantially less on LLL and on workout gear in general because my gym/running wardrobe is in pretty good shape these days and because Lulu has been releasing things that are easy for me to do without. I have been spending money on casual wear and some work clothes instead.
I was about $150/week in Lulu. I now buy Lulu on eBay but as of late, I think I'm good for now. Now I have more money to spend on "matching my athletic shoes with my Lulu". I sure could use more street and date wear too. If Lulu doesn't chnge things up in a few months, my interest will definitely be elsewhere.
Athleta seems too sporty for me to buy on a regular basis.
Also, as LLA mentioned, I'm sick of seeing people in my gym wearing the same thing. It's to the point where I will wait to see if anyone shows up with it and if they do....returned it is. And since they've repeated Pop Orange and Power Purple it's getting worse!! How many shades of neon does a girl need? It's starting to look like a disco party at my gym. I have sold a lot of my Lulu due to this.
I really have been only buying CRB and I don't think I need anymore (the Limitless Blue, Beaming Blue, Beach Blanket Blue....honestly, how many shades do you need?) Even the mint moment and teal green are fairly close.
We don't need to discuss their see-thru crops. And their customer service is HORRIFIC! They act like they're doing me the BIGGEST favor by returning my unworn, tags still attached merchandise within the 2 week period. It's like they know their crap is crap so they don't want it returned. Sorry for all the negativity but I needed to get it out!
I used to stalk lulu website and stores in my area every week for product drops and additions to the we made too much sections - but no more. During my last few yoga classes I looked down to see threads sticking out of my practice freely tanks and my inspires(only had them a few months and I hand wash all my lulu). Sad. I will be spending my money on UA and Nike for the basics and splurge on the occasional Stella for Adidas or Splits59.
The Front Racer tank looks SO trashy in the frony but I like the back. You would need a good bra to pull it off. Any ideas???
Great post! I tried Ellie (kinda cute, but I don't think the items will last) Yogamsoga crops (not sheer, but they have a sheen that I don't love, and I should have sized down to a 4 and not my usual LLL 6.), and just ordered Zobha crops for the first time...I hope they are great!
Really, I miss old luon. Thick, soft, substantial, not shiny, not sheer, durable, flattering, and worth more than its $100 price tag.
Athleta all the way! I love the diversity of styles they offer and I think the quality has greatly improved. I even snagged a few items I can get away with at the office. Love it.
There is a Lorna Jane opening up near me and so I'm saving my money for new stuff. Recently bought from Athleta (6 items in past 4 months), prana, Splits59, omGirl, Dino and YS. Of course lots on eBay. I'm overflowing with work out clothes but I have to say the outfits actually motivate me to work out more. I used to exercise 2 times per week, now it's 5 times per week. I also do not like to walk in to a studio/gym and see someone wearing the same tank or top. So, I'm buying very little from Lulu and wearing my old / rare stuff. I'm so excited about Lorna Jane and still waiting for YS crops. Used to spend $400 a month on Lulu, and now $40 a month at the most, some months nothing. I want to love Beyond Yoga but I think their crops will be too hot when I get sweaty. Thanks for a great post. Love how you get great discussions on here.
I just spent $200 on Lorna Jane, and bought some under armour and athletica items last week. Usually I would be awaiting the upload on Mondays and spent that on lulu. Don't think that will be the case ever again, quality just isn't there and I hate when people ask about the see through pants when they see I am wearing lulu, makes me feel like an idiot for spending my money there.
I still buy a lot of my workout stuff from lululemon, the fit is perfect for my body type, the designs are still innovative and cute at the same time.
I also run with the nike run club and the store carries some really nice stuff but the pants and some of the shirts seem cheaply made as well and they are pricey. they are not made for petite people either. I am still on the fence about yogasmoga and patagonia is my other go to brand, but they don't seem to make anything for super busty and petite people.
I hope lululemon comes around, I still find that a lot of their gear is great, like the tata tamer, energy bra, boogie shorts all the pacesetter skirts and the speed run shorts.
M
I still buy lululemon, hehe.
I also find their styles to fit my frame the best, while being the most attractive.
Before lululemon, I purchases Zella and Lucy, and those items have not held up nearly as well as my lululemon items. Lucy never sold bras will enough support, and their pants started pilling quickly. Zella doesn't fit as well and I'm not as fond of the fabric.
My favorite items from lululemon are their tanks, because they offer enough styes that allow me to skip wearing a bra.
I did my taxes for last year and saw exactly when the drop off occurred. I went from spending over $800 a month (average online, not in stores, so add another 20-25% more) The year before wasn't quite as much but climbed from about $250 a month upwards to the previous average. I used to visit my store at least 3 times a week and buy online first thing Tuesday mornings.
My spending plummeted last Fall, and gets less and less every month. Here it is the end of April and I think I've been in my store 2 times and I haven't ordered online in forever. In fact, if I don't see anything here, on this blog, that interests me I won't even bother. I check this blog more than I check Lulu's website!
I just can't do see thru, not even an itsy bitsy bit! But since I was a collector for so long (2008-2009) I literally have 100's of bottoms, over 100 CRB's the same with tops, and almost as many jackets! And that's after giving a ton of it to my friends and selling about 25% of it over the years...had I known what was going to happen I might have held on to some of it...nah...I have too much anyway.
It's still hard for me to buy any other brands though. I just don't like how many of it looks very sports/activity specific. I don't want to wear yoga clothes to train my sport, and I don't want to wear clothes that I train my sport in to yoga! That's the only reason why I haven't yet ordered yogasmoga. It looks like yoga only. And since I'm in the business of fitness I like meeting clients and running workshops in "nicer" clothes still appropriate for the gym, like DSP's and a lot of LLL's pullovers / jacket are very nice and professional looking. (or at least used to be)
So every now and then I might buy Stella, I might buy Alo, but probably have more Under Armour than anything. But I could never buy another thing and still have too much.
One more thing. To me Athleta is the Trader Joe's of fitness clothes. Everything is Athleta brand and that drives me crazy. Yes, everything at Lululemon is Lululemon, but it's designed by LLL, not some generic company and then the LLL brand slapped onto it. I'd rather shop at Title Nine and buy brand name apparel designed by that particular company. Otherwise I might as well buy at Costco.
I branched out and tried a ton.. Lucy, Athleta, Kira Grace, Yogasmoga and Splits55. I used to spend $150-$200 every other week on Lulu and now maybe $100 for the year to date. I'm just over their BS, low quality and crappy designs!
Ummmm, I'm a serious runner and I don't understand the LLL luxtreme bottoms prices, UNDER ARMOUR has black "luxtreme" bottoms that I am obsessed with! They are only around $30 and are so durable and feel like a dream BUT you have to have a fit waist because they do not have a thick band so it may cut in to some with not so fit midsections. It doesn't cut in to me now but it used cut in a little before I lost a little weight. I think they are the black 17" UA Capri or something like that. I have not tried the new LUX line but I imagine its just as durable.
I just don't see why I should spend $86 on luxtreme bottoms with so much potential to unravel and see through? No thanks!
I like Athleta for bottoms. I won't buy their tops..no cups.
I purchased a tank and matching crops from Beyond Yoga last week. The crops are thin and I have to hike them up since the waist band isn't substantial. I can't comment on the tank since it is MIA..wasn't in the box with the crops and the tracking info provide by BY says they were shipping in the same box. I am waiting for a reply from customer service. I won't be purchasing from BY again.
I am also waiting for my yogasmoga crops to arrive.
Great post! I have bought 5 items from Lulu this year and I am sorry that I did. The quality of the Work It Out Track pants is really bad, they will only last a few washings. The Street to Studio crops are thinner than last years crops, and the pricy Luxtreme jacket is too warm. I cannot even sell my last years Studio Crops that have never been worn, because of the bad press Lulu pants have been receiving lately. It is really too bad they used to make great durable clothes.
I now buy UA, Nike, and the Gap. Overall I buy alot less workout gear.
I also agree that Lululemon is targeting the younger kids spending their parents money who do not know any better.
My lulu money is now Smoga Yoga money! I just got off the phone with a designer who was genuinely interested in my input. Their second production should be coming out in 2-3 months and I am so excited!!! He also said new colors will be in two but he was very hush hush on those colors. Still, I be they're going to be elegant and beautiful.
You'd be an XS. But the real beauty of Athleta is that you can buy a couple of sizes and return the non-fitters for FREE at ANY TIME! Work out guarantee!
Thanks so much LLA - its really great to get input on the other brands - LLL have only themselves to blame for this! I've been trying some other brands and so far the higher end Nike stuff has been the best alternative. My first foray into Yogasmoga (blue crops) was good but my next purchase (black tippy toe leggings) were not as nice so the jury is still out on YS :). I liked the look of the UA pieces (and they do some great colours in their crops) but when I actually tried them I found the fabric a bit too thick and warm. Athleta is also rather good imo and I love their customer service - i just find the styles a bit ordinary. Basically I'm still hanging on to the hope that LLL finds its way back to the good old days!
Been turning to Lorna Jane and Split 59. Compression crop by LJ is tops. love the jackets from S59.
Like most, I used to spend at least $200 a week on LLL. There was a time where we could all buy anything and feel confident in the quality and not feel self-conscious when out in public.
I wouldn't mind so much so many people wearing the brand if the quality hasn't gone down because it's expected when things are made well, the way we see Nike all over the place....but this is not the case, which is frustrating.
I feel like LLL has been designing pieces the way fashion designers create couture dresses, where the things they are creating are unique but not everyday/everyone friendly. It's like they design some strange looking piece, market it to have some sort of function, and then expect us to buy it when they haven't even considered the way it would fit to the average woman. Just like the Front Racer, rather than hiding armpit fat, it brings attention and accentuates it.
I've gone to Nike and Zella as substitutes, but if LLL doesn't get their act together, it might just become permanent, which is sad because I used to love LLL's ability to come out with feminine looking pieces in beautiful colors in non-tacky designs that most athletic brands don't always focus on.
-Squishy
There are still tons of people buying lululemon because all the sizes usually disappear quickly, lululemon will be around forever and worn by lots of people. They have came out with some really nice pieces and some not so nice but so has every other company and brand out there.
I have been buying Lulu since they opened their doors--when no one even knew what Lulu was. 2-3 years ago, And beyond....I was soending on average $1500 a month, sometimes more, sometimes a bit less. I spent a lot on Lulu...but I wear it a few times, get bored and then resell it to buy more! Its become a little business for me. :)
Now a days, Im spending approx. $1,000 A YEAR on Lulu. Ive bought a few vintage pieces on Ebay...but sometimes Ive been ripped off. I've scored some excellent items and other pieces, were people who were selling items not as described!! (people listing items as new without tags and the items arrive in poor condition). Of course, those people I had to report to PayPal to get a refund and leave poor feedback. (I hate doing that, but when sellers DONT respond to your emails, what else can you do?!)
My money the past two years...has gone to boutiques I shop at in larger cities...Aritzia, Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Kate Spade, Coach, Prada, Tiffanys, Gap, Some Roots, Chloe, Donald Pliner, ect, ect... I love purses and designer clothing! I use to buy Lulu right away!!! Now...I go to my top 3 websites online, to see what they have first and then I hum and haaaa about Lulu. I think about it for so long now...that I dont buy. If I dont spend it shopping online somewhere....I go for a facial or body massage somewhere! I also like Yogasmoga and plan to buy more from them. I dont live near a big city, so opportunities to shop at Nordstorms are not there. When I head to TO or Montreal I go crazy and shop till I drop! The last 6 months....my "fun money" has been going to Sephora HARD CORE!! :) I love how special they make you feel and their excellent customer service!! I use to spend an abscene amount of money at Lulu, but the past 6 months has been underwear and waterbottles! Thats all....
I go to social media and read about all the unhappy customers at Lulu and I "remember" those postings when it comes time to buy from Lulu. :) I think that has a huge affect on my non-Lulu spending. I also received HORRIBLE customer service in the past, when calling Lulu....this left a bad taste in my mouth! Now when I call, they are all over me on the phone, trying to win me back. LOL... I think the days of crazy Lulu spending for me, are gone! Im OK with that, because Ill just spend it somewhere else! Its harder and harder to support a company, that doesnt care about loyal cusotmers....
Oh I so desperately want something other than all my Lulu stuff, for a million reasons, not the least of which is my kids 17 yr old babysitter wears the same stuff. Have tried: Zella and Zobha alot, and the fit is never the same as with Lulu, always a little off, not quite as stylish, Yogasmoga pants I just bought off rec. here, feel scratchy like kids tights. Atheta, not quite as nice quality and stitch as the aforementioned, PLUS, WHY NO CUPS in ALL the tanks? When Lulu does it right I cannot find an equal.
Easy $100 per week or bi-weekly was being spent on LLL, no longer. In late 2011-early 2012 I was definitely more acquisitive but no longer. This has its plus side in that it set me up (good amount of gear) to not have to buy from anyone else.
Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) is now getting some more of my money (which means MEC's own brand, Prana, Nike. other brand gear that they carry). MEC also has an excellent return policy and price adjustments, plus Rock Solid Guarantee.
Not unlike someone else who bought expensive jewellery, I purchased some original art (it's something I've wanted for a long time) by a great, local artist. It was quite a bit of money for one piece but well worth it: endless visual beauty and delight and definitely an investment.
In general, no other one clothing brand is getting my business because I have quite a bit of LLL gear. I'm set for some time as the stuff I have is great quality and classic.
I TRIED to give Athleta my money but their foreign handling fees, duties etc. for Canadian shoppers are a deal breaker so they won't get my money. e.g. $40 on sale crops come to $95 with all the fees = not happening (not EVEN if I used to spend that on LLL). This is stupid since we have Gap and BanRep .ca versions and don't get hammered on fees. I even e-mailed them about it (no Athleta .ca) and told them LLL sucking = you can win with Canadian customers if you make it worthwhile. And btw GapFit stuff is not the same as Athleta. They appreciated the feedback but no moves on making it better for Canadians. Oh well, your loss Athleta (not to say some Canadians won't pay the crazy fees, some will.)
Anyway, less money given to LLL (and others) is just better for ME.
@ 12:11 PM, yes speak for yourself about being a less savvy Canadian and being "held hostage" by LLL: I'm Canadian and I am savvy and NOT held hostage by LLL! I do not want them to fail but since they don't care, why should I? Unfortunately they have rested on the laurels and done this all on their own.
If you read this whole comment, thanks for reading, I know I rambled.
Such interesting comments today. I think lulu has great fit but I've been limiting myself to the same few styles for the most part - CRBs, swiftlys (cannot wait for the longer tank to return), run crops (though luxtreme seems to have take a turn for the worse so I'll wait for that to hopefully recover), Ta Ta Tamers, Studio Crops, and Pants. I'm starting to spend a little more on casual wear than in the past and I have a few expensive races coming up so less spending on lulu will be handy. I really like the new Yogasmoga stuff I've tried and have fingers crossed they'll have some interesting designs in the future. There are a couple more companies sending me stuff to review, too.
My favorite capris are the Nike Legend Tight Fit Capri and the Zella Live In Capri. I think these two brands make superior capris and are almost half the price of Lulu. Amazing compression and not sheer! Zella has solids, reversible and even space dyed leggings. And Nike has so many fun prints now. I rely on Lulu for workout tops, I feel like Nike and Zella don't deliver in that regard.
I just got my first Under Armour tank and I love it, especially because it was only $25! I want to try Lorna Jane now. I saw the cute LJ tanks My Superficial Endevours posted. I'm in LA so there are several LJ stores and I'm going to check it out this weekend. I also ordered a pair of the Yogasmoga capris, still waiting to receive them. Honestly, I don't think they are a Lulu replacement. The designs are too simple and the color palette limited. Prices are too high for such simple designs. Maybe the fabric is made in the US, but aren't they sewn in El Salvador?
I've been buying older lulu nwt on ebay and the groups. Even the stuff they were making 6 months ago was better than what's in the stores now. The educators in the new photos look like Lululemon fashion victims. Head to toe neon, or head to toe one bright color, or sheer everything. It's all so ugly and who dresses like this in real life?!
I still spend a little bit at Lululemon - but often wait for things to go on sale.
What I *have* been spending more money on is gear - got a new roadbike, camel back, running and cycling shoes, sunglasses, etc. In the long run, I think this is a good thing - I have a lot of cute clothing, and it's important to wear it while doing the sports I love!!
Hi 3:36 PM again. I forgot to mention I'm awaiting my YogaSmoga crop order and am definitely rooting for YS. Easy shopping for Canadians: thank you! and smart business move (which I know they were deliberate about). Thanks as well to LLA and others on this blog who introduced me to YS.
I also unsubscribed from all LLL product emails. I get better info from this blog for staying informed!
Someone mentioned Sephora. That's true too, some of my money has gone there too for good creams and such. LOL to demonstrate my moments of Canadian shopping savvy, I compare (product prices) between Sephora and SDM (Shopper's Drug Mart) because sometimes I get a better deal at SDM and accumulate those Optimum points which have a further reach than Sephora's. I'm going right now to get $10 off (special promo today only when you spend $50 or more) a Korres Quercetin serum (highly recommend but no cheap!), same regular price at Sephora but of course all sold out. My comparison shopping pays off and I could even get a bigger discount if I use my points LOL. I know you understand!
anon@12:24: I have worn Tonic for tennis. Martina Hingis wore their workout clothing and liked it so much she partnered with them to make tennis clothing. I love it, nice designs, quality materials, all made in Canada.
I have also been wearing Lija (mostly made in Canada) and Lole.
All my lulu money has been going toward CW-X Stabilyx running tights. Love these and can't imagine going back to lulu and non-existent compression. These tights helped me shave off 7 minutes off my half marathon time because I felt so great during the run. Amazing!!!
@seattlite-me too! I just bought a new BA bag that's filled with that fancy new dri down. Really excited to try it out in glacier this summer (:
I really miss the old LULU. It makes me so depressed. I can't seem to find a company that has comparable stuff although I did find the Ginger Tights from Splits59 to be as close to old Lulu as I can remember. I love and treasure my old stuff because it's quality. I only now buy things that I need like TaTa Tamers and Energy Bras. I REALLY wish Lulu would wake up and realize that they are losing their loyal customers. Whenever I see new people in lulu and raving about how great it is, I can't help but kinda laugh b/c the new fabric is CRAP. Lulu is laughing all the way to the bank.
Someone above mentioned Lija and I just had to look it up.... Saw this: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/01/21/yoga-clothing-lululemon-lija_n_2521651.html
interesting.....cause Im in Canada and have never heard about them before! Thank u, to the person that mentioned them!! :)
I always paid lulu prices because of the FIT They size the 10 and 12 sizes so well. That is still the only reason I buy now. I used to drop several thousand a year when I first got into the wardrobe. It was sophisticated and edgy and always had UNIQUE styling details which I loved putting on after a long work day in business. Now, ehh. I cringe at the sight of teenie boppers in the lulu headbands and hope no one in spin class will have lulu on. Sadly they are now overexposed and I always choose the older more sought after stuff I have. :) Bring chip back - the end.
I now choose Zella at nordstrom - awesome return policy. And like lucy more and more as well as LOLE. Lole has some sweet winter gear.
I liked the Roots Mantra Pant as an alternative to Grooves (at a more reasonable price). Sadly, it looks like the Mantra isn't offered any longer. Many of the jackets and hoodies are top quality.
I love Lole for tanks and jackets! Cute, well made, and often on sale.
I used to think expensive equaled quality but this last year of LuLu has made me think differently. Also, its frustrating to be in a room full of similar outfits. I am down to buying an occasional swiftly long sleeve or racer back. I have a healthy collection now so I don't need to buy anything but I have been enjoying Zella from Nordstroms, hard tail and believe it or not yoga pants from Costco. I can use them and abuse them and they hold up great.
@11:21 AM, I was also exploring other brands and I completely agree with you on zella and GapFit, both are very impressive, especially GapFit, for the price(they always have some kind of discount), some of their stuffs are quite surprisingly good quality. Not so much of their crops/pants, but I like many of their tops and bras.
I also have shopped at nike/UA (my go to brand before lulu), Athleta, and recently yogasmoga. I have also discovered Lucy, kiragrace, zobha, 59, from which I will place order to try their stuff. Sorry lulu...
Check out Slice Active Wear - their clothes are actually still made in Canada and seem like great quality!
So far still at $150 total Lulu for the year (one pair of WU's and the made in Canada dahlia Power Y) and I used to spend $300-$500 some months. I was obsessed, as I am sure many of us were.
I've been selling off some stuff on Ebay, aquiring some older stuff on Ebay, I don't even go into the store anymore and I used to go nearly every day since I work out nearby.
I still wear my good Lulu, but the love affair has worn off. I feel a bit self-consious in it because its now "notorious."
Instead I have been building up some savings, and spending my cash on some expensive shampoo (Bumble & Bumble) from Sephora.
I checked today and was tempted to buy the purple scoop me up but I'm tired of luon light and would just hate it any it anyway like the majority of stuff I ordered in the last half of 2012 and returned. I still check the blogs but the new stuff is so hideous I can't bear to look.
I'm glad to be free from my addiction. Thanks Christine, for destroying this company.
Wow - I definitely feel like I'm with "my people" on this blog :) I used to spend a ton on Lulu, knew pretty much all the people at the store, etc. Now I've moved onto Oiselle (a running brand based in Seattle), xersion (super cheap workout stuff from jc penney) and some Zella from Nordstrom... BUT I STILL MISS MY OLD LULU! As people have already mentioned, the fit was so good and the designs were so interesting and I just loved my Lulu. But alas, that is not the case anymore. Thanks for all the great suggestions above!
I haven't bought a lulu jacket since they discontinued the Define. Prior to that, they discontinued the Stride and the Dance Studio Jacket, two of my other favorites. But at least they were still making Defines. Then they stopped. All the newer jackets are pale cousins of those earlier jackets. And I don't plan to every buy any of them.
So for now, I'm buying the occasional Swiftly tank or short-sleeve, the occasional CRB. That's about all. For pants, I'm turning to Zella, GapFit, Athleta, UA, etc. I'll wear the old lulu pants that I already have, but I won't buy any new ones. Why should I risk it? Do I really want to spend my money on a pair of crops or pants that are likely to be sheer or unravel or have other issues? Nope.
My $$ are for YogaSmoga. I love my Slimmie Pants and tippy toe leggings. I also like their sophisticated colors--different than the LLL teeny-bopper styling. The YS website is an experience!!
Adam & Annie have been amazing. I have gotten emails from them at 1am. Great cust service.
I am rooting for them! Cant wait for new styles and colors!
LLA, thanks for such a fun post!! LLL kinda is old news.
LLA, can I propose changing the name of the blog coz the LL name now turns me off.....!
I haven't bought Lulu since December. I've even had a gift card since Christmas that I just can't find anything nice enough to spend it on. I've bought Lulu since 2005. It's just sad now.
I haven't bought Lulu since December. I've even had a gift card since Christmas that I just can't find anything nice enough to spend it on. I've bought Lulu since 2005. It's just sad now.
Like 11:58am I am in my twenties and don't like most of the colors and designs from lulu. They look more like stuff that should be on the ivivva website! I still buy lululemon for athletic outerwear when it seems to be well made (like the pump it up jacket) and stuff on markdown like CRB & ta Ta tamer. I'm at the point where I have all the staple pieces in nice colors and feel that I can easily pass on new Easter egg colors. I see myself buying cycling lulu pieces because I am in the minority that loves it (I wait for WMTM prices of course).
These days I am buying two monthly tops from Ellie, which are awesome for only $20 each (the leggings are pretty great for price but don't think they are made to last long). I also bought Yogasmoga and will turn to them definitely for pants. I feel like I've been buying stuff to compliment my yoga wear, like jeans, nice shoes, layering pieces. Bloomingdales and free people are taking up my old lulu dollars
I too used to spend an average of $350 per month, buying at least one item every upload. This April the only thing I got was 2 tanks on WMTM. The months before that, nada!
Lately, there's nothing new that is a must-buy. If there's something that I kinda like, it's safe to just wait for it to get to WMTM and if it doesn't end up there then it's no biggie.
I've tried other brands (Zella, Beyond Yoga, Karma, Unit-Y) and so far they've been a bust for me -- not compressive, poor quality, bad fabric, weird fit etc. As for other brands, their designs don't seem to attract me -- too blah or too crazy.
So far only Yogasmoga has been a success. I got my Run Play 'N Jump crops in India Blue and Tippy Toe leggings in Carbon and LOVE! The most LLL-like bottoms I've tried (pre-Day LLL that is). Unfortunately, their Yantra tank does not attract me. I hope they come out with more designs soon.
I love GapFit and VSX. I am not really a fan of the styles and prints at Athleta. Whenever I walk in there, I can't even find anything that I'd want to try on. I have a few things from Target that I love too. I love their seamless sports bras for around $15. I know I'm the only one who will say this, but I absolutely love my Old Navy crops and pants (suggested by a commenter a while back). They have so much compression and make my body look awesome! They hide my cellulite and no CT. I never really bought LLL pants unless they were unique, like the DSP and Dog Runners. Mostly I would buy tops from LLL. I also love my LLL gym bags. Unfortunately the bags that have come out lately are mostly garbage. How many different colors of the Vinyasa to Vino bag do they need to make???
Elisabetta Rogiani 3/4 side gather crops are the only yoga pants I wear now. The material feels better than any other luon (old or new) that I've felt.
I learned about so many new brands here, fantastic! As I browse through these brands, I am very impressed with the modern and flattering design of Split59, the fabric looks very soft online as well. Have anyone tried their products? How was it?
@1:13 PM I completely agree with you on LLL's horrific customer's services, unreasonably strict policy and rude attitude I have recently experienced. I'm done with them.
I have 2 identical tops as the Prahna top that are from Danskin at WALMART!! Super cute though.
I love the Prana Quinn tank! Only the solid colors though. The solid color fabric is thick and compressive, like luon. The prints are made of recycled fiber which is noble, but results in a thinner, stretchier fabric, like luon light.
Buying zobha, zella, nancy rose, yogasmoga, and be present instead of lululemon. The Be Present woven stretch cotton crops works well in Phoenix. Luon crops are too heavy and hot in the summer. The best luon crop/pant replacement is yogasmoga so far.
@ anon 7:56 pm - Rogiani is definitely on my list of brands to try.
@ anon 7:13 pm & 11:58 aqm - When I said this latest print (and I should add in the the Frangipanis, too) makes it look like lulu is going for the younger market, I meant it almost seems they are going for a teen/college market. Though, I don't think I'd buy that latest print for my 14 year old niece but rather for her 8 year old sister.
Do you mind posting which local artist? I love discovering new talent. :)
I own a couple of UnderArmor crops, do not like them one bit, one pair very soft but defective developed holes, another is solid and will take forever to wear out because it is nasty a** polyester. Will have to get rid of them some how (LOL). So. Cheap (~$40), but no thanks. Is UA US or Canadian made? Of course not. Similar Cons with Nike, Adidas, Fila, etc. Many of their technic fabrics are scratchy polyester. The rest is marketing. Also see A LOT of fairly sheer Nikes around everywhere. Come to Whole Foods at evening and see for yourself. Every brand is represented. Just yesterday saw 2 girs in nikes being super sheer in broad nightlight (not unlike lulus). Instead of UnderArmor, Nike, Adidas, might as well buy Champion, C9 from Target or Kohls-same polyesther for less.
Also own Sugoi Jackie Knicker. A little more dollars than UA but also better than UA. Pro's: 88nylon/12spandex, soft as luon, seams are good and flattering, nice for running, stay in place and not slip down during run, if wash with Penguin detergent they look like new. Cons: waistband is constrictive, stupid pocket and tag are huge and only loosely attached so NEVER lay flat on tummy. Sugoi is hard to find in local stores, never know about the stock,etc.
Athleta is owned by Gap. So it is not some small retailer competing with LLL anymore.
GAP Athletics? Since when GAP clothes are made in USA? Don't think Gap designs capture my imagination; Heavy use of polyester. Too many designs are simple cotton legging. Easy pass.
OT but bear with me: heard of “Traitor” brands? Organic and natural brands (like Kashi by Kellogs) "whose parent companies contributed millions to defeat Prop 37, the California Right to Know Genetically Engineered Food Act." So those are the companies to boycott for real cause like health and wellbeing. Boycotting LLL for pantsgate is not in the same league. Besides, I feel like I need to do a lot of research about each company now before I'd want to boycott LLL, heh. Yes, LLL went on to cheapen its many designs and use cheapo fabrics. Not everything is garbage but is bad by old LLL standards, yet still better than most other brands name checked today.
Prana, Patagonia - much love for making organic cotton and eco concious clothing. Will always give them a chance. Also will give a chance to other cool new brands but that is a lot of work to discover, then ship, then test, etc. in an itself.
Bought crops and tank by Beyond Yoga. Very old luon-like material. On sale. Cute, stand out pieces mainly because are less common than lulu. But not what you'd call "punch self in the face" gorgeous like some coveted older lulu items. Regular price is on par with LLL.
Um, who else, lyraactivewear.com? Haha. These designs are not my cup of tea exactly.
Great post, LLA!
I've bought less than five "new-new" Lululemon things this year. Includes bangbusters.
Money is going on a lot more Icebreaker (can't beat it for long distance running), two pairs of yogasmoga pants, and hunted down a few older/precious Lulu things from 2+ years ago.
As a recent college grad who has ogled fellow friends LLL gear for the past 2 years, I finally saved up a good chunk to go on a Lulu shopping spree. To say the least, my pocket wasn't too much lighter upon leaving! I walked out with black inspire crops, boogie shorts and a swiftly long sleeve.
I wasn't impressed with much, and the quality seemed so different than my friends LLL tops and bottoms I would try on. (This opinion came before I started reading blogs and articles from LLL veterans about the diminishing quality of their fabrics and designs). To my horror, my Inspire crops started coming apart on the mesh paneling! I had worn them cycling ONCE! Not even washed yet. That put a sour taste in my mouth for sure.
I thought I had made an investment in high quality gear, but my Patagonia, Athleta and Gapfit have never let me down. I have Gapfit tops and bottoms that I have had for 3+ years and still look fabulous! I am sad I missed the glory days of Lulu, but on the flipside I can stick to my tried and true brands that have never let me down :)
Lorna Jane for me...love it. Also swapped back to Nike for basic tanks etc...
lululemon has always said that they are a company that LOVES to hear our feedback. I wonder how true that is??? I happen to know one of the higher ups at Lulu! She is actually a friend of mine. This gal has been doing a lot with the company, behind the scenes. Funny thing tho, When we talk, she gives me the impression she never wants to hear anything negative about the company she works for. She has a great attitude, but I often wonder how long she is going to pretend everything is great?! I mentioned some of the recent company woes and was greeted with silence. LOL Most people in her position, would make some sort of comment, but nothing.... (Agree, disagree)
I suppose, if I had a company like Lulu paying my trips to travel the world over, Id paint a huge smile on my face too! you know...go with the flow. Happy! Happy! Joy! Joy! It often makes me wonder tho, how many at coorperate Lulu do this. LOL
I used to think LLL can get over their current quality issues and get us all back, my spending can go back to ~$500-1,000 a month. HOWEVER, I feel they might have lost me for good EVEN IF their quality glitches are corrected because the brand is just not what it used to stand for. Not only is it overexposed, the store and the hyper girliness and the rah rah it's so flattering to my behind just strikes me as cheesy. And let's face it...I think all women look better in normal street clothes.
I'm spending a lot less on Lululemon than I was a year or two ago, but I haven't found a substitute. Does anyone have any recommendations on companies that have good clothes for runners? I used to do a lot of pilates and yoga, but now I run 2-4 times per week, and I've done 3 half marathons in the past 18 months. I still love Lululemon's swiftly shirts, but the colors they've been putting out haven't interested me at all.
Don't forget about Karma! I've been spending way less on Lulu lately and more on Karma. I used to spend hundreds of dollars a month on Lulu, but not so much now. I agree: the colors repeat too often, especially across items with a similar function: Maybe the style is slightly different, but why do I need TWO tanks in zap green? For people who don't like to repeat colors on items with similar functions (e.g. tanks, tops, jackets), Lululemon is really missing the mark.
I also agree that the styles are lacking the sophistication and novelty that attracted me to the brand many years ago. They are no longer avant garde and increasingly I am liking Athleta and Prana styles more--especially for cross-over day/atheltic/travel wear.
My spending has definitely decreased since this time last year. Besides the poor quality, I had the added reason of bring pregnant! So far, the only full-price items I've purchased this year are bangbusters & an inkwell pacesetter - everything else has been on WMTM.
We traveled to CO in March & I visited both the store in Boulder & the one at Cherry Creek. Normally I go to LLL first so that if I blow my budget, I've gotten the best items possible for my $$. This year? Enh. I used to shop at Lucy a LOT, but their stuff just doesn't seem to hold up as well.
I also visited a couple of Athleta stores & fell in love with their running/yoga gear. I've worn their swimsuits & dresses for years, but finally branched out. I LOVE their Revelation crops/pants, their skorts (their not all perfect, but I really like several) & their triathlon shorts. I can't wait till I am back to a more normal size & can get some more pieces. Also, if you're shopping in a store, their instructor program offers a 30% discount. Pretty awesome!
Honestly if anyone with half a brain at LLL read this blog (and particularly this thread) you'd think it should make a difference! They appear to be so complacent that the loyal/long-time customers are of no consequence. Very interesting article in the Vanouver Sun about Karma... (Which I would have posted here but I cant because the half a brain i have doesn't appear to be working - sorry!). It seems as though Karma (like YogaSmoga) is trying to grab the opportunities LLL is creating for them :)
I dont call Lulu very often. Was burned a few times, over the phone by one of their educators a few years ago. (And yes, I still remember that girls name!) I was later told, Lulu had to let her go... LOL.... apparently, she had been fired. Not surprised seeing how awful her customer service skills were. I had an item that had to be returned to the company and seeing the whole thing wasnt my fault...was asking for a return label. I was also asking that the new item be shipped out and for them to waive the shipping charges. This educator, right out....told me I was taking advantage of the company. They screw up and its me taking advantage of the company??
years passed...havent called them. A few weeks ago, I had some product just suddenly fall apart! I called them about it, expecting nothing. The girl on the phone was beyond nice!! She understood and was very courteous! Not only did she resolve my issue, she issued me a gift card and bent over backwards for me!! Its was pretty shocking how overly friendly she was and willing to resolve my issue, even though I hadn't right out asked for a resolution. It was like night & day!! I fear this is Lulus way of now handing out "damage control" to try and keep its long-time customers. although I was very thankful for the excellent customer service....what I didnt tell her (GEC) was that, I was pretty much done with Lulu. Burned too many times in the past. In order for me to show them I didnt appreciate past poor customer service...I let them know, by taking my dollars elsewhere! :) I see here today...Im NOT the only one!
Over the last few years I was spending around $500/month. Not only am I not buying LLL, I'm not even looking at the Tuesday drops or the blogs I once haunted everyday. One word: BORING.
I used to spend around $300-500/month on lulu and now they're lucky to get $50. My wallet has been happy and luckily I've got enough vintage lulu in my drawers to last me a while. I still love getting new activewear so I've been turning to Splits 59, Karma, and I love my new YS pants. Can't wait to see what YS develops in the future for us!!
I originally turned too LLL after being disappointed with Puma, Nike, and Adidas workout clothing.
I am being more picky with my LLL purchases. I will only buy items that I know are worth the money, don't have flaws/sheerness, and items that aren't overly trendy/juvenile.
If LLL keeps being unreliable, I will look to YogaSmoga and Zella for items that LLL can't fulfill. Customer services matters.
I received my Tippy Toes YS leggings in black, and they are not sheer, have impressive fabric, and compressive. I got my usual LLL 6, and I could see how I could size down if I worked out in these leggings. My husband likes them on me...and he even pointed out the logo on the leg (he finds it amusing!).
In the hey days, I used to spend $200-$300 a week during uploads and another $200-$300 a week at the store. In fact, I used to go to the store so often, every one knew my name. I would go to the store 4-5x a week. In the last several months, my interest in lulu has waned due to lack of quality, color blocking, color bleeding, poor customer service and just ugliness in general. I have over 500 pieces so I really don't need any more lulu. It was an addiction and I think I've overcome it. Now days, I spend maybe $100 a month on Lulu and have been making purchases via GapFit, Athleta, Lucy and Zella from Nordstrom. Great customer service gets me all the time.
Victoria's Secret! I'm loving their Knockout Crops recently, and their "Supermodel Capri's" are like Gather and Crows ish. ISH.
Their version of the "NLT" isn't really my thing, not digging the halter top but eh. I've always bought and will still keep buying their supermodel cami sports bras though (and they redesigned the back straps to be cuter than the normal Y)
Oops don't think my last comment posted so trying again...
I agree with LLA, I used to spend so much money at LLL but have not been lately. I have been trying out brands like Zella, UA, Nike, Zobha and BY. I love the Lorna Jane stuff that My Superficial Endeavors posted the other day but do not have a store nearby - they are expensive though! http://mysuperficialendeavors.blogspot.com/2013/04/beginning-of-lorna-jane-love-affair.html
Oh and also she posted some cute Alo stuff earlier too but I have not tried that brand either.
has anyone tried Sweaty Betty workout clothes? I got a catalog in the mail - running, workout, dance, tennis swim. Not a large collection.
For pants I have totally switched over to O'Neill 365 (although I think I have posted that before)since they have cuts that fit well and fabrics which don't show sweat marks (I do a lot of Muay Thai, boxing & other high intensity sports).
For tops I now wear a mix of older Lulu (have not bought an item in months), Under Amour, NUX and O'Neill 365.
My sports bras are primarily Lululemon although I will admit I have not bought one of those in months either - none of the latest releases seems to fit quite right. I think the Angel Blue Energy bra was my last purchase.
i'd spend $120/month in 2010-2011 when i first started buying LLL. in 2012, the quality decrease became pretty noticeable (love my Astro Wunder Unders, but they are SO thin and pilled so fast), and i only purchased maybe 3-5 things. haven't bought anything since May 2012! also was really disappointed when they changed the Flow Y cut and many of the other designs.
since, I've switched primarily to Lucy (their sales are great!), though their pants aren't as comfortable. their fabrics seem much more durable than the LLL 2010-2012 luon my stuff is made out of. it's annoying that those items seem so sensitive to how/with what they are washed. excited to try Zella stuff next!
I still primarily buy lulu, but far less. The return policy is what annoys me the most...the automatic $5 taken off. I use to combine multiple returns and print my shipping label from paypal...my mail carrier would pick it up from my hose. Now it is just inconvenient, plus I honestly was ending back almost everything. I now buy stuff from the WMTM section, and if it does not work could usually get my $ back on ebay. I NEVER buy bottoms anymore...they never seem to work out.
LLL is clearly targeting younger group and slender body type now. Younger crowd purchase trendy popular stuff or whatever their "circle" hypes, not so much about quality - so cheaper quality fabrics there. Slender/lean body would look good in anything even in a piece of bed sheet - so less cost in designing, bigger profit there. That's why they r playing around with colors now, coz they can't offer better designs or better quality sports wear, it's all about money now. The CEO is doing a fantastic job for their board members in that regard, hehe.
Definitely switched back to UA, Nike, Athleta and zella, and exploring all these new brand I've never heard of. I may still pick up a few from LLL here and there ONLY IF the product is really well designed well made and worth the money...
I have not bought anything from Lulu in almost a year. Very disapointed with my last purchase and their return policy sucks too. I now spent my $$$ on Nike, Athleta, Calvin Klein, Champion Premium line at Target, Kyodan from Marshalls, and a few random pieces that I pick up here and there. I recently bought some tops by 90 degrees by Reflex that have almost the same fabric as Luon (87% Nylon 13% Lycra) They are very soft and I bought them on clearance at TJMaxx for $9.99. I also got some cute tank tops by Hind there as well. I will not easily forgive Lululemon for lowering their quality standards and acting all blah blah about it.
Beyond Yoga, SoLow, and adidas by Stella McCartney!! Love all of them!
I've bought a Michael Kors Watch, Tory Burch Reva's and Amanda Clutch with the money i've been saving from not buying Lulu, and I also have sold some peices because I was sick of looking at my closet FULL of lulu. The brand has sunk so low IMO, that I don't want to wear head to toe Lulu to the gym anymore. I've also purchased some adidas and UA crops which I really love. I'm over Lulu. There are a few peices that still peek my interest ( bangbusters, speeds and crbs) but otherwise unless they bring back strides and defines, I'll keep spending my money elsewear.
My current shopping list:
UA for running tights, running tops. Their "cold gear" is way better than anything LLL had this winter
Nike for running shorts and their simple tanks. One racer back style is cotton-y soft, by far my favorite.
VSX for sports bras.
Lulu for the occasional Practice Freely or similar tank, I love them for hot yoga and haven't found another brand that offers similar styling for ventilation. I honestly haven't found a great replacement for yoga crops or pants and I've tried Athleta (in between sizes), Gap Fit, pRana, and The North Face. Based on the comments here YogaSmoga and Lorna Jane will have some orders from me soon!
I forgot to add...I also discovered Glyder apparel (I've only tried this style:
http://work-sweat-play.com/glyder-apparel/mantra-pants/
LOVE!
My lululemon shopping has taken a nose dive since christmas. I just don't like the things that they have come out with. The only things I've gotten this year, that weren't left overs from the holidays, are the root chakra pants and the out and about pants. Both are actually really nice, but compared to other years that is a big change. Last year there were several jackets and tanks that I desperately wanted but could not afford, this year its all just meh.
I want to try YogaSmoga but I still have so much good lulu from before that I'll be okay for a while.
My Pure Barre class used to be a sea of Lululemon. Seemed like 95% Lulu most days. It's what got me to buy my first item in late 2011, seeing how nice it looked on others.
I've looked around recently, and there are maybe 1 or 2 ladies in Lulu now. The rest are in Under Armour, Champion C9, Lucy, Splits59, Athleta, Karma Yoga and other brands -- or just plain T-shirts and sweats from wherever. The tide has turned.
And when I go into my local Lulu stores, often I am the only customer. Very often. It's weird -- like a ghost town.
@ anon 5:30 am - do you mind saying what part of the country you live in? NYC, LA, SF, Chicago ? If you are in a style-leading area of the country this is interesting news.
I still see a lot of people on the street wearing lulu. I live in NYC and the local store I go to Union Square is quite busy, they just opened a new one in the meat packing district. LULU is still going strong here. I think Splits59 is more of an LA brand.
M
@Luluaddict - another data point: I am from OC and on a project for 6 months in NYC... while January had a smattering of some girls wearing it and some not, virtually no one here wears Lulu anymore. I actually told the BF that I should probably short the stock when I noticed how many girls were cooing over my non-Lulu items when I came out in January.
My workouts are primarily PB, Muay Thai, Yogaworks, Boxing and Surfset. My girlfriend who goes to Barry's religiously still rocks the latest Lulu though. I have never been though so I can't tell you if it's "her" or the high-end trendiness typically associated with that crowd.
UA hot gear is pure polyether.
Yes, athletes wear Nike. Pure marketing as they choose to wear it for a free. Ladies like Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams get millions of $ in product endorsements. Those outfits don't even look good on them let alone a regular person. Lots of fug. Lots of polyether fug. No matter what age group buys it.
Anyone else is tired of Nike tempo track short? Those are not bad looking but are they everywhere or are they everywhere?
@ M - Yes, Splits 59, Nux, Beyond Yoga are all LA-based. I think lulu arrived in NYC a bit later than they have been in SoCal. What will be interesting is if/when you see Yogasmoga pop up in classes in NYC since that is where they are based.
@ Kathleen - what non-lulu stuff were you wearing that people liked?
@ anon 8:21 am - Agree that UA is polyester. Some of the Nike stuff I saw the other day was make of nylon/spandex. They has a very soft tank that was all polyester but it felt so nice against the skin. However, I have been burned by Nike in the past where their items shurnk up or stretched out on me so unless I can get it for cheap I won't use it. My sister has a number of Nike run items she likes and look nice on her. Since she lives on the wet side of Oregon she can't buy lulu running jackets since she needs something that is truly waterproof and not just water resistant.
You summed it up so perfectly: a decline in style, quality, and customer service. A trifeca fail in my book.
As a runner, I've been incredibly disappointed in the run-specific gear for the past year or so. Swiftlys are paper-thin and snag and in my opinion, the material on Groovy and Turbo run shorts is TERRIBLE. I still run in a 3-4 year old pair of Lulu shorts but have sold/given away all my recent purchases.
Lulu's loss of my money has been a gain for Athleta (best run shorts), Lucy (amazing running race tanks), and runner-specific brands like Mizuno, Oiselle, and Brooks.
I also used the YogaSmoga code and LOOOOOOVE my new leggings. Have worn them to heated power flow 4-5 times and no stretch or pilling.
Yes, agree that polyester pieces can be nice and soft. Nike or UA do not have very many items that are of nicer fabric, overwhelming majority is cheap polyester. We've seen some nice Nike items (like some tennis shirts on Federer and Nadal) but those are expensive and rare. Majority of their designs/fabrics are super cheap to make. Here hoping that LL doesn't dive to that level... It prolly will. Like many (Starbucks) have done it before them.
Another brand not mentioned yet is Perl Izumi. Not cheap tho, and truly good unique new seasonal jackets (as good or better than defines) sell out in hours, what's left on website for rest of season, those lines are meh, and online shopping pictures are meh too. So they are easily dissmissed unless you are lucky to see and touch those cool hot selling items. And of course, website has nothing exciting going on like lulu does every week.
@LLA - these are the pants which have gotten the most compliments since I came to NYC: http://www.oneillclothing.com/shop/365-surf-legging
The funny thing is, I had originally gotten them to be paddling pants and running tights for the colder weather in Cali but it turned out they work for pretty much every workout I do. I discovered this when my Astro, Tadasana and Recognition pants would not tuck into my boots comfortably. Some people would buy new boots... but I'm a cheap accountant Cali-girl at heart and had no desire to spend $$ on more winter wear for a 6 month project in NYC. Next thing you know I'm wearing my paddling pants/running tights to the gym. I guess it worked out in the end - I ended up ordering two more pairs from the company.
Pretty much any of my tops from NUX and the brighter O'Neill 365 stuff gets complimented though. Both brands have some pretty unique looking stuff. I guess people haven't really been seeing stuff from either of those lines out here. One thing I will say is I don't recommend the NUX pants - I ordered 2 pairs online about a year ago (after they were mentioned by someone on this site) and neither of them had a real "gusset"... they actually ended up coming apart at the crotch.
Ive been shopping at lulu for about three years now and it practically stopped this last summer/fall. I might make a small purchase here or there but nothing like it use to be ($100 wk). Iam a big swiftly & inspire crop lover.
Nike is ALWAYS my go to especially for running and crossfit and ive shopped at prana for 10+ for yoga clothes. I really dont want to spend much more of my money on this train wreck although I hope they pull themselves together.
all my "lulu" money is going to: jcrew, kate spade and tory burch ;)
I have only been shopping at Lululemon for a year and I am still finding lots of things to buy. While I like the Turbo shorts the most, I am still happy with the Speed short, Groovy Run short, Roll Down short, Work It Out short and even the Pace short (pockets not so good). I like the No Limit tank the best but I still like the Back on Track Tank and the Practice Freely Tank. I also really like the Scoop Me Up Tank. I like the Swiftly Tech tanks in both the long and short lengths. The short length shows off the shorts waist band nicely. I wore a extra long CRB yesterday and like that length as well. I liked the 105 F singlet with the scalloped edge and thicker fabric best but my thinner more delicate bleached coral one without the scalloped edge is still nice. I still like the CRBs and I have liked a lot of the recent colours - bleached coral, beach blanket blue, aquamarine and power purple. I like the Free to Be Bra the most but I also like the Flow Y Bra, Energy Bra, Pace Bra, Pirouette Bra and Run Hook Me Up Bra. I like my Run for your Life crops the most but have also brought the fresh teal run pace crops and ordered the aquamarine wee stripe ones. For weekend wear I like the Studio crops and pants. I haven't tried any Lulelemon luon crops and pants or jackets. The Define jacket didn't look nice on me. I have had a few quality issues with Lululemon but haven't had any problem returning the faulty items or the tops they destroyed (bleeding, unravelling seams, bonded seams ruining my tops). The other athletic brand I have brought the most from in the last year is Adidas. I have brought some nice tanks with built in bras but not enough support for running, short shorts for kitesurfing and some Stella McCartney shorts. I used to buy most things from Nike but now I only tend to buy the Nike Frees. I've ordered the leggings from Yogasmoga bit have to wait for size 2.
The only things i have in my lulu based are the free to be bras, groove shorts, speed short and a crb short (on sale). Will continue to make a purchase here and there from lululemon.
I would not purchase another crop from there due to pilling in the crotch area. Not really liking Lululemon's designs of their tanks lately.
I've tried Nike in the past but do not like the fit of the majority of their items, especially their polyester blend clothing items.
Despite the OT post regarding Lorna jane's, i personally find LJ's items sturdier, especially the tights than lululemon's. I've given most of my lulu items to the LJ swap shop.
@ lulu5coats - I am IN LOVE with Lorna Jane too! If you order off their Australian website it's $20 shipping and takes 3-4 days. If you order more than $300 worth of clothing DHL will add on $38 for import taxes. The US website doesn't seem to have a lot of options but the US stores can put you on a waiting list if you see something you like off the Aussie website and call you when it comes in/ship it to you. Hope this helps!
Anon 5:30 back again: I'm in the South, so by no means a fashion-leading area. So this trend away from Lulu may mean nothing. My Pure Barre studio is carrying far less Lulu these days, though, and more Karma Yoga, Alo, etc. Cute stuff!
Tonic is fantastic! The fabrics are really high quality, I machine wash it and even put it in the dryer. Many of the pieces I have are more than a year old and still look brand new. I love the fabric, Try it out!!
I have try a few brands (Under Armour, Zella, lululemon, Beyond Yoga, VSX) Under Armour's Studio Lux capris are by far my favourite. They are amazing for yoga, thick material yet extremely flexible, superb quality. The fabric is so soft and they don't peel. I ordered a few from the sale section about 8 months ago and have been wearing them non stop at least once a week. They retain their shape, no peeling at all so far and no colour fading. They are true to size. I'm very very impress with under armour's quality. I still wear my lululemon capris but they are just not up to UA standards.
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