Content Menu
● The Founders' Journey
● Product Offerings
● Brand Philosophy
● Market Presence
● Sponsorships and Collaborations
● Future Plans
● Innovations in Fabric Technology
● Customer Experience
● Community Engagement
● Sustainability Efforts
● Conclusion
● Related Questions & Answers
>> 1. What inspired Shannon Savage and Laura Low Ah Kee to start Left on Friday?
>> 2. What materials are used in Left on Friday swimsuits?
>> 3. How does Left on Friday ensure inclusivity in its sizing?
>> 4. What notable sponsorships has Left on Friday secured?
>> 5. Where can I purchase Left on Friday products?
● Citations:
Left on Friday is a Canadian swimwear brand founded by Shannon Savage and Laura Low Ah Kee, both of whom have extensive backgrounds in the apparel industry, particularly with Lululemon. Launched in May 2018, the brand was born out of a desire to create stylish, functional swimwear that caters to active lifestyles. The founders recognized a gap in the market for swimsuits that are not only fashionable but also comfortable and versatile enough for various activities, from beach volleyball to lounging by the pool.
The Founders' Journey
Shannon Savage and Laura Low Ah Kee's journey began with their shared passion for sports and beach life. Growing up in Vancouver, both women were heavily involved in athletics and outdoor activities. Their experience at Lululemon provided them with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of product development and brand management.
- Shannon Savage: With a strong background in product development, Shannon's expertise lies in creating apparel that combines style with performance.
- Laura Low Ah Kee: Laura's experience at Lululemon included roles that required innovation and adaptability, qualities that have been instrumental in the success of Left on Friday.
The name "Left on Friday" embodies the spirit of adventure and spontaneity. It reflects a lifestyle where every day feels like a weekend, encouraging women to embrace their active lives without compromising on style.
Product Offerings
Left on Friday specializes in swimwear designed for women who lead active lifestyles. Their collections include:
- Swim Tops and Bottoms: Available in various styles and colors, allowing for mix-and-match options.
- One-Piece Suits: Designed with comfort and functionality in mind, perfect for swimming or beach sports.
- Activewear: The brand has expanded beyond swimwear into athleisure, offering products like leggings and tank tops made from their proprietary fabrics.
The signature Smoothing Dream Fabric used in their swimsuits provides flattering compression while remaining soft against the skin. This innovative material is resistant to fading from chlorine and saltwater, ensuring durability through countless adventures.
Brand Philosophy
Left on Friday is committed to inclusivity and body positivity. The founders believe that every woman should feel confident and comfortable in her swimwear, regardless of body type. This philosophy is reflected in their diverse range of sizes and styles designed to flatter all figures.
The brand's mission extends beyond just selling swimwear; it aims to empower women by providing them with clothing that enhances their active lifestyles. Savage and Low Ah Kee emphasize customer feedback in their design process, ensuring that each piece meets the needs of their clientele.
Market Presence
Since its inception, Left on Friday has gained significant traction within the swimwear market. The brand has successfully leveraged e-commerce to reach customers across Canada and internationally. Their marketing strategy includes collaborations with influencers and athletes, which has helped build a loyal customer base.
In addition to online sales, Left on Friday has recently expanded into physical retail spaces with pop-up stores located in Toronto and Muskoka. These locations allow customers to experience the products firsthand, enhancing the shopping experience by allowing them to try on swimsuits before purchasing.
Sponsorships and Collaborations
Left on Friday has made headlines for its partnership with Canada's National Women's Beach Volleyball Team. As an official sponsor for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, the brand designed custom swimsuits tailored to meet the athletes' needs. This collaboration not only showcases Left on Friday's commitment to performance but also elevates its status within the competitive landscape of swimwear brands.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Left on Friday aims to continue its expansion both domestically and internationally. Plans include opening additional retail locations across Canada and exploring opportunities in key markets such as Las Vegas and New York City. The founders are dedicated to creating a unique shopping experience that resonates with consumers who value quality swimwear designed for an active lifestyle.
Innovations in Fabric Technology
A significant aspect of Left on Friday's success lies in its innovative fabric technology. The Smoothing Dream Fabric, sourced from Italy, was developed after extensive research and testing over six months. This fabric meets several critical criteria:
- Durability: It withstands chlorine, saltwater, and fading from UV exposure.
- Softness: The fabric feels buttery soft against the skin while providing necessary support.
- Compressive Fit: It offers a flattering fit both when wet and dry.
- Coverage: The design ensures modesty without sacrificing style or comfort.
This attention to detail has resonated well with customers who often express how transformative it feels to wear these swimsuits compared to traditional options available in the market.
Customer Experience
One of the standout features of Left on Friday is its focus on customer experience. The founders understand that shopping for swimwear can be a daunting task for many women. As such, they have made it a priority to create an enjoyable shopping experience both online and offline.
- In-store Experience: At pop-up locations, customers can interact with knowledgeable staff who provide personalized fitting assistance.
- Online Shopping: The website offers detailed size guides along with customer reviews that help potential buyers make informed decisions.
Feedback from customers often highlights how trying on Left on Friday suits leads to newfound confidence—a testament to the brand's commitment to empowering women through fashion.
Community Engagement
Left on Friday actively engages with its community through social media platforms where they share user-generated content featuring real customers enjoying their products. This approach not only builds brand loyalty but also fosters a sense of community among users who share similar values regarding health, fitness, and body positivity.
The brand also participates in local events such as beach clean-ups and fitness challenges, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility—an increasingly important factor for consumers today.
Sustainability Efforts
While Left on Friday is still developing its sustainability initiatives compared to some other brands, it has taken steps toward eco-friendliness by:
- Using recycled packaging materials.
- Sourcing fabrics from suppliers who prioritize sustainable practices.
- Encouraging customers to invest in quality pieces rather than fast fashion alternatives.
The founders believe that if consumers can rely on one high-quality swimsuit for multiple activities instead of purchasing numerous cheaper options each season, it ultimately benefits both the environment and their wallets.
Conclusion
In summary, Left on Friday is owned by Shannon Savage and Laura Low Ah Kee, who have successfully carved out a niche within the Canadian swimwear market by focusing on stylish yet functional designs tailored for active women. With their commitment to quality, inclusivity, innovation in fabric technology, community engagement, and sustainability efforts, they continue to redefine what swimwear can be while empowering women worldwide.
Related Questions & Answers
1. What inspired Shannon Savage and Laura Low Ah Kee to start Left on Friday?
- They were inspired by their love for sports and the beach coupled with a desire for stylish yet functional swimwear that catered to active lifestyles.
2. What materials are used in Left on Friday swimsuits?
- The swimsuits are made from a proprietary fabric known as Smoothing Dream Fabric which offers comfort, durability, and flattering compression.
3. How does Left on Friday ensure inclusivity in its sizing?
- The brand offers a diverse range of sizes and styles designed to flatter all body types ensuring every woman can find a swimsuit that fits well.
4. What notable sponsorships has Left on Friday secured?
- The brand is an official sponsor of Canada's National Women's Beach Volleyball Team for the 2024 Summer Olympics.
5. Where can I purchase Left on Friday products?
- Products are available through their online store as well as at their pop-up locations in Toronto and Muskoka during the summer months.
Citations:
[1] https://swimsuit.si.com/swimlife/left-on-friday-makes-swimsuits-for-wildest-adventures
[2] https://www.besthealthmag.ca/article/canadian-swimsuit-left-on-friday/
[3] https://www.forbes.com/sites/angelachan/2024/04/04/making-waves-how-left-on-friday-is-redefining-the-swim-and-activewear-industry/
[4] https://www.shopify.com/ng/blog/left-on-friday-feedback
[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://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/g19566696/new-swimwear-brands/
[7] https://www.thooja.com/blog/green-friday
[8] https://theatlasheart.com/best-sustainable-swimwear/
[9] https://www.secondlifepod.com/episodes/leftonfriday
