Content Menu
● The Genesis of Left on Friday
● The Brand Philosophy
● Connection to Lululemon
● Product Offerings
● Expansion Plans
● Challenges in the Swimwear Market
● Sustainability Efforts
● Marketing Strategies
● Community Involvement
● Customer Experience
● Visual Appeal
● Conclusion
● Frequently Asked Questions
>> 1. What inspired Shannon Savage and Laura Low Ah Kee to start Left On Friday?
>> 2. Is Left On Friday affiliated with Lululemon?
>> 3. What makes Left On Friday swimsuits unique?
>> 4. Where can I buy Left On Friday products?
>> 5. How does Left On Friday approach sustainability?
● Citations:
The world of swimwear has seen a refreshing change with the emergence of Left on Friday, a brand co-founded by two former Lululemon executives, Shannon Savage and Laura Low Ah Kee. With a mission to create stylish, functional swimwear that caters to active lifestyles, Left on Friday has carved out a niche in the competitive swimwear market. This article explores the origins of Left on Friday, its unique offerings, and its relationship with Lululemon, along with insights into the broader context of Canadian swimwear manufacturers.
The Genesis of Left on Friday
Left on Friday was born out of a desire to fill a gap in the swimwear market that the founders identified during their time at Lululemon. Both Savage and Low Ah Kee had extensive experience in product development and merchandising, which they leveraged to create a brand that resonates with women seeking both style and performance in their swimwear.
- Founders' Background: Both co-founders previously held significant roles at Lululemon. Savage was instrumental in developing the women's running line, while Low Ah Kee excelled in product merchandising. Their combined expertise laid the foundation for Left on Friday's success.
- Launch Date: Officially launched on May 18, 2018, Left on Friday quickly gained traction by focusing on high-quality materials and designs that cater to active women.
The Brand Philosophy
Left on Friday embodies a philosophy that encourages women to embrace their active lifestyles without compromising on style or comfort. The brand's mantra revolves around versatility and functionality, which is evident in its product offerings.
- Smoothing Dream Fabric: One of the standout features of Left on Friday swimsuits is their proprietary Smoothing Dream Fabric. This material is designed for both wet and dry conditions, providing compression and support while remaining comfortable and flattering.
- Inclusivity: The brand emphasizes inclusivity by offering a range of sizes and styles that cater to diverse body types. This approach not only enhances customer confidence but also aligns with contemporary values around body positivity.
Connection to Lululemon
While Left on Friday operates independently from Lululemon, the influence of the latter is evident in its business model and design philosophy. The founders' experiences at Lululemon equipped them with valuable insights into branding, marketing, and customer engagement.
- Shared Values: Both brands prioritize quality, performance, and customer satisfaction. This shared ethos has allowed Left on Friday to attract a loyal customer base that appreciates high-quality activewear.
- Mentorship and Networking: After leaving Lululemon, Savage and Low Ah Kee maintained strong relationships with former colleagues who have supported their new venture. Many Lululemon alumni have become customers or even joined the Left on Friday team.
Product Offerings
Left on Friday's product line includes a variety of swimsuits designed for different activities, from beach lounging to competitive sports. Each piece reflects the brand's commitment to quality and functionality.
- Versatile Designs: The swimsuits are crafted to be suitable for various activities—swimming, surfing, or simply enjoying a day at the beach. The designs incorporate features such as secure straps and flattering cuts that enhance movement and comfort.
- Colorful Aesthetics: With vibrant colors and patterns, Left on Friday suits are not only functional but also visually appealing. This aesthetic appeal helps customers feel confident while engaging in their favorite activities.
Video: LEFT ON FRIDAY Active Swimwear Review + Try On // If you like Lululemon then CHECK THIS OUT!
Expansion Plans
As Left on Friday continues to grow, the founders have ambitious plans for expansion. Their recent initiatives include opening pop-up stores across Canada and sponsoring athletic teams to increase brand visibility.
- Pop-Up Stores: In 2024, Left on Friday launched pop-up locations in Toronto and Muskoka. These stores allow customers to experience the products firsthand, enhancing their shopping experience through personal interaction with the brand.
- Athletic Sponsorships: The brand has partnered with Team Canada's Beach Volleyball team for upcoming events like the Summer Olympics. This sponsorship not only showcases their commitment to performance but also aligns with their target demographic of active women.
Challenges in the Swimwear Market
Entering the swimwear industry comes with its own set of challenges. Savage and Low Ah Kee faced several hurdles as they established Left on Friday.
- Market Competition: The swimwear market is saturated with established brands. However, by focusing on quality materials and unique designs, Left on Friday has differentiated itself from competitors.
- Pandemic Impact: The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for retail businesses globally. Left on Friday adapted by enhancing their online presence and utilizing social media marketing strategies to reach customers effectively.
Sustainability Efforts
In today's environmentally conscious market, sustainability is paramount. Left on Friday is committed to creating long-lasting products that reduce waste over time.
- Quality Over Quantity: The brand advocates for fewer but higher-quality swimsuits that can withstand various activities without needing frequent replacement.
- Recyclable Packaging: They utilize recyclable packaging materials as part of their commitment to sustainability, aiming to minimize environmental impact wherever possible.
Marketing Strategies
To build brand awareness and engage customers effectively, Left on Friday employs innovative marketing strategies that resonate with their target audience.
- Social Media Engagement: Utilizing platforms like Instagram and TikTok allows them to showcase their products through visually appealing content. Influencer partnerships help amplify their reach among potential customers who value authenticity in endorsements.
- User-Generated Content: Encouraging customers to share photos wearing Left on Friday products fosters community engagement while providing authentic testimonials about product performance in real-life scenarios.
Community Involvement
Left on Friday actively participates in community initiatives aimed at promoting health and wellness among women.
- Local Events: By sponsoring local fitness events or beach clean-ups, they not only promote their brand but also contribute positively to community well-being.
- Workshops: Hosting workshops focused on fitness or wellness topics allows them to connect directly with their customer base while positioning themselves as advocates for healthy living.
Customer Experience
Understanding customer needs is crucial for any successful brand. Left on Friday prioritizes creating an exceptional shopping experience both online and offline.
- User-Friendly Website: Their website is designed for easy navigation with detailed product descriptions and size guides that assist customers in making informed purchasing decisions.
- Customer Support: A dedicated customer service team ensures prompt responses to inquiries or concerns related to products or orders, fostering trust and loyalty among consumers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, *Left On Friday* stands as a testament to innovation within the swimwear industry spearheaded by former Lululemon executives who understood what modern consumers seek in active apparel. By prioritizing quality, inclusivity, and style while maintaining strong ties to their roots at Lululemon, Savage and Low Ah Kee have successfully created a brand that resonates deeply with women seeking both functionality and fashion in their swimwear choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What inspired Shannon Savage and Laura Low Ah Kee to start Left On Friday?
- They identified a gap in the swimwear market while working at Lululemon and wanted to create stylish yet functional swimsuits for active women.
2. Is Left On Friday affiliated with Lululemon?
- No, while it was founded by former Lululemon executives, Left On Friday operates independently but shares similar values regarding quality and customer satisfaction.
3. What makes Left On Friday swimsuits unique?
- Their proprietary Smoothing Dream Fabric offers comfort and compression both when wet or dry, along with designs tailored for various activities.
4. Where can I buy Left On Friday products?
- Products are available online through their website as well as at pop-up stores located in select Canadian cities during summer months.
5. How does Left On Friday approach sustainability?
- They focus on producing high-quality items designed to last longer than typical fast-fashion swimwear while using recyclable packaging materials.
Citations:
[1] https://www.glossy.co/podcasts/lululemon-vets-on-launching-left-on-friday-we-were-able-to-go-so-far-so-fast/
[2] https://swimsuit.si.com/swimlife/left-on-friday-makes-swimsuits-for-wildest-adventures
[3] https://www.marieclaire.com/career-advice/money/exit-interview-left-on-friday-founders-laura-low-ah-kee-shannon-savage/
[4] https://www.calexico.com.au/collections/left-on-fridays
[5] https://retail-insider.com/retail-insider/2024/05/canadian-swimwear-brand-left-on-friday-expanding-with-retail-stores-and-athletic-sponsorship-interview/
[6] https://leftonfriday.com/pages/faq
[7] https://shop.lululemon.com/help
[8] https://www.besthealthmag.ca/article/canadian-swimsuit-left-on-friday/
