New Survey by lucy Finds Activewear is Apparel of Choice for Many Women; From Workout to Weekend, Quality, Versatile Garments Are Staples of U.S. Wardrobes

Business Wire,  July 31, 2006  

Tags: Staples Inc., survey, women

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PORTLAND, Ore. -- According to a recent survey conducted by Kelton Research and commissioned by lucy, a Portland-based lifestyle apparel company, women across America are ditching their jeans and frumpy sweats for stylish, on-the-go apparel. With figure-flattering designs and high-tech, easy-to-care-for fabrics, women are choosing activewear as their number one apparel choice that can transition from working out to running errands seamlessly, leaving extra time for the important things in life.

The survey polled a sample of 626 women from the ages of 18-50 in the U.S. in early July 2006. Respondents reported the latest trends in activewear are making it easier than ever for women to be stylish and comfortable no matter where they wear it.

Highlights from the findings include:

--50 percent of all American women between the ages of 18 and 50 now dress in activewear regularly -- even when they have no intention of hitting the gym.

--88 percent dress in activewear at least occasionally, regardless of their intended activities.

--One in three women says when they're running errands on weekends they're more comfortable in activewear than anything else.

The survey found performance features of activewear are turning heads among women. 43 percent of respondents want apparel they can throw in the wash without worrying about high-maintenance delicates. Also, 36 percent said the most important thing about activewear is its ability to be flexible and stretch with her body.

"There's no question that activewear has become a wardrobe staple and we're proud to provide women with great products and unique experiences to inspire her active life," said Mike Edwards, President and CEO, lucy. "Positive energy is what we hope all lucy customers get from our stores and online site and given these survey results, we know this is exactly what they need from us."

lucy, started in 1999, was one of the first specialty women's retail companies and carries an array of styles each season classified into four categories: active, energy, balance and essentials. Product highlights include pants in various lengths, signature lucy tanks/camis, short and long sleeve tops, jackets, tops in lengths, graphic tees, maternity items and athletic bras.

Moms on the Move

Anyone who's spent time with young children can testify to how important comfortable, moveable clothes are. Activewear is a natural fit for busy moms and moms-to-be who value apparel that moves with every twist and turn.

--Mothers are 26 percent more likely than women without children to regularly choose activewear as they tackle essential errands involved with managing today's busy family.

--39 percent of mothers feel the most important performance feature of activewear is flexibility and the ability to move with their body.

Prime Real Estate

With a significant shift in the popularity of activewear among women, prime closet real estate is also experiencing changes. According to the survey results, activewear has gained ground over the years and has recently surpassed other styles of clothing in the battle for closet space.

--Two out of three American women dedicate at least half of their closet to activewear.

--74 percent of women in the Northeast dedicate at least half of their wardrobe to activewear compared to 64 percent of those living in the West.

Regional Differences

While the survey found many similarities among women's enthusiasm for activewear, it also found geographic differences of opinion to set them apart from other areas of the country.

--47 percent of Southern women say that the most important performance feature of their activewear is being able to toss items in the wash with no fuss.

--Southern women love the variety of flattering styles available, with 30 percent calling it their favorite activewear trend -- nine percent more than women on the West.

"With 33 locations throughout the U.S., lucy is a favorite in many areas. We plan to continue growing into new markets to meet the needs of our customers, particularly in the Northeastern and Southern parts of the country in 2007," said Edwards. "This data only reaffirms our enthusiasm for these areas."

About lucy

lucy is a Portland-based lifestyle apparel company for women who value fit, style and performance. lucy isn't a specific person -- she lives in all of us as we attempt to live a healthy, balanced life. Life is not only about being at the gym or yoga studio; it's about the everyday routine of multi-tasking errands, activities with family and friends, and taking care of yourself from the inside out. An expert in active ways of life, lucy listens carefully to the needs of women and creates apparel with on-the-go performance and versatility, as well as a healthy dose of style and color. With its own lucy label and exclusive designs from other designers and brands, lucy stands apart and inspires confidence in those who wear the products and visit the stores.