May 21 - Ballito Umhl

we started our first business, XO The Brand (a more formal
ladies fashion and accessory online store), which has now
expanded into our new venture, Bod The Brand.
What was your vision/goal with this business?
After starting XO and working from home (even before
the pandemic), we found that athleisure was our goto
wardrobe. As lovers of all-things-fashion, we found
it difficult to find stylish and comfortable pieces that
we felt put-together in. This inspired the vision to bring
women a stylish ‘second skin’ that focused on comfort and
confidence. Whether working in or working out, on-themove
or lounging about, we wanted to create wardrobe
staples that easily transition women from one daily task
to the next, without a second thought on what to wear.
More than that though, we are a community first and a
brand second, which is why we place great emphasis on
our #bodcommunity. We want this to be a platform that
provides the goods and the space for women to look and
feel their best.
What does ‘athleisure’ mean to you?
Athleisure means put-together comfort you can wear for
almost any activity. ‘Any-wear’ pieces you can WFH (work
from home) or workout in, run errands, travel, brunch or
barre in. It’s the normalisation and formalisation of more
casual, athletic wear in the best way. A hybrid style of
dressing that is stylish and edgy and makes getting ready
every day easy. Athleisure has been around for a while, but
the work-from/stay-at home environment has intensified
consumers’ need for it, especially in a way that is more
acceptable, trendy and fashion-forward.
What are your do’s and don’t’s for wearing
‘athleisure’ on a day-to-day basis?
Do’s: Go for a matching set – makes for sophisticated
effortless dressing; Layer up – an oversized tee over biker
shorts, a tonal sweatshirt with leggings, a bomber jacket
over a set; Wear with seamless undies; Check the features
to match what you’re dressing for/activity impact level;
Pick a neutral colour start + work up to our coloured sets.
Don’t’s: Be afraid to try new things – our styles are made
for all babes (and we offer free returns!); Go too small,
when in doubt, size up; Over complicate it. Keep it simple;
Don’t compete - empower and share!
Details: info@bodthebrand.co.za, IG: @bodthebrand, www.
bodthebrand.co.za