Read the MAY ISSUE #125 of Athleisure Mag and see 9PLAYLIST | VICTORIA BECKHAM in mag.
Read the MAY ISSUE #125 of Athleisure Mag and see 9LOOKS | Benito Antonio X Zara in mag.
We have been a long time fan of June Ambrose who has been in the industry not only for decades, but if you grew up watching music videos done by Hype Williams, saw epic style statements by Busta Rhymes and Missy Elliott - you were enjoying a living masterclass by June Ambrose. You were seeing her work. The clothing, the hues, the storytelling that was done that was bordered by the videos, lyrics, dancing, and more. She set the tone and continues to do so in her projects.
This stylist, Costume Designer, and Creative Director continues to push the envelope. She recently launched another capsule collection for Naturalizer X June Ambrose. We talk with her about the shoes, her approach to her work, and what we can keep an eye out for!
ATHLEISURE MAG: When did you first fall in love with fashion?
JUNE AMBROSE: I fell in love with fashion before I even had the language for it. Growing up in the Bronx, style was survival - it was expression, armor, aspiration. MTV just amplified what I already felt in my bones. I realized early that clothing could shift energy in a room. That was my first understanding of power.
AM: When did you realize this could be your career?
JA: The moment I saw that my point of view could move culture - not just dress it. When artists trusted me to translate their sound into a visual language, I understood this wasn’t just styling and costume design… it was authorship. That’s when it became a calling.
AM: How would you define your personal style and 3 favorite accessories?
JA: My style is intentional contradiction - tailored yet fluid, disciplined but expressive. It’s what I call Authentic Intelligence.
My essentials? A statement heel (always), fun hat, and a fun and iconic shaped bag that feels like art.
AM: Where do you start creatively on a project?
JA: I always begin with narrative. Who is this person? What is the emotional temperature? I build from story, then silhouette, then texture. I’m not dressing bodies - I’m designing moments that add punctuation to your look.
AM: What have been your 3 favorite projects that you have done?
JA: Building Missy Elliott’s iconic persona, starting with her Supa Dupa Fly music video, launching women’s basket and motor sport catergory for Puma, and building the STYLE-LETICS universe. Each one pushed culture forward in a different way.
AM: Tell me about STYLE-LETICS and Naturalizer?
JA: STYLE-LETICS is where fashion meets velocity. It’s a new category where the elegance of pumps and sandals moves like a sneaker. My partnership with Naturalizer was rooted in a shared belief: comfort should never compromise style. Together, we challenged the idea that fashionable shoes require sacrifice.
AM: Tell me about the Macy’s event that took place this month.
JA: At Macy’s Herald Square, we didn’t just host an event - we activated a movement. Women stepped into the arena, tried on power, and walked in confidence. It was immersive, high-energy, and deeply personal. Style became a shared experience.
AM: What was your approach to the capsule collection?
JA: Precision. Each drop was engineered for versatility and transformation. I wanted silhouettes that could move from work to play and dancing all night without losing intention. Every piece had to perform - emotionally and physically.
AM: What do you love about your partnership with Naturalizer?
JA: It’s alignment. They understand that a woman’s life is dynamic - so her wardrobe must be too. We’re not just designing shoes, we’re designing freedom and taking risk.
AM: We always like asking our faves about 3 workouts that you love doing!
JA: Pilates for elongation, strength training for power, and walking - intentional, styled walking - for clarity. Movement is part of my creative process.
AM: How do you replenish your cup?
JA: I disconnect to reconnect. Silence, travel, and moments with my family. Stillness is where my next vision reveals itself.
AM: Are there any upcoming projects that we should keep our eye out for?
JA: Expansion of the STYLE-LETICS universe - new silhouettes, deeper storytelling, and hopefully global activations. And of course, continuing to build platforms where style and culture intersect in meaningful ways.
IG @juneambrose
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | June Ambrose X Naturalizer
Read the APR ISSUE #124 of Athleisure Mag and see 9LIST STORI3S | June Ambrose in mag.
Read the APR ISSUE #123 of Athleisure Mag and see 9LOOKS | BAE X ADIDAS BALTIC in mag,
On April 16th the Youth America Grand Prix will have its World’s Largest Ballet Scholarship Competition for their 2026 Stars of Today Meet the Stars of Tomorrow Gala which is hosted by Misty Copeland. Rebecca Hessel Cohen, Founder and Creative Director of LoveShackFancy, as well as Melanie Hamrick, choreographer, author and ballerina will be honored at David H. Koch Theater in NYC. The event’s Gala Creative Chair is Marcella Guarino Hymowitz. There will be performances by Christine Shevchenko and Calvin Royal III of the American Ballet Theatre, Polina Semionova of the Berlin State Ballet, Roman Mejia of New York City Ballet, Reece Clarke of The Royal Ballet, and Nicoletta Manni and Timofej Andrijashenko of La Scala Ballet.
In addition to seeing phenomenal performances and enjoying a dinner at the gala, The Pointe Project shoes will be available for all to bid on via Givebutter.com starting on April 16th - April 23rd at 12pm ET.
You can still purchase tickets to YAGP Gala. We had the chance to talk to a few people ahead of this event. We had the pleasure of interviewing Misty Copeland a few years ago for our OCT ISSUE #94 and as this year’s host, we wanted to catch up with her on what she has been up to, why YAGP is important to her, and upcoming projects she is involved in.
ATHLEISURE MAG: We had the pleasure of interviewing you a few years ago and it’s great that we connected with you again! What do you love about ballet?
MISTY COPELAND: I love that ballet is a language beyond words. It’s discipline, imagination, and storytelling through the body. It gave me purpose and a way to connect with people across cultures and generations.
AM: What did it mean to you to be a Prima Ballerina for the ABT?
MC: It was deeply meaningful both personally and historically. It meant honoring the path that came before me while helping expand what audiences believe is possible in ballet.
AM: You retired from the ABT, and we know you just performed at the Oscars with Sinners, what are the kinds of projects that you will be taking on that we can keep an eye out for?
MC: I have a new middle-grade novel, Firebird Waltz, coming soon, along with future performances and creative projects across stage, film, and producing. I’m also continuing to grow the work of my foundation.
AM: You are hosting the YAGP Gala. Why did you want to be involved in this year’s event and what are you looking forward to?
MC: YAGP plays such an important role in nurturing young dancers. I wanted to support and celebrate the next generation of artists.
AM: Why is the Youth America Grand Prix important for dancers?
MC: YAGP creates access to training, mentorship, scholarships, and global visibility. For many dancers, it’s a life-changing opportunity.
We wanted to know more about the importance of YAGP and sat down with Marcella Guarino Hymowitz, who is the YAGP Gala Creative Chair.
AM: Before we delve into YAGP and the upcoming gala, can you tell me a bit about your background?
MARCELLA GUARINO HYMOWITZ: I’ve been dancing for as long as I can remember—I started at three, was assisting classes by twelve, and performing professionally as a teenager. Dance was my first language. It taught me discipline, expression, and how to connect with an audience without saying a word.
Over time, my path evolved beyond performing into choreography, creative direction, and experience design. Today, I run The Pearl in New York City, a dance and wellness studio built around confidence, community, and self-expression, and I also create immersive entertainment for events through Studio MGH.
Everything I do still stems from that same foundation—using movement and storytelling to make people feel something.
AM: When did you first fall in love with dance and why do you love it?
MGH: I fell in love with dance very young, but I think I understood WHY I loved it as I got older. It’s one of the only art forms where your body becomes the medium.
Dance gives you a way to process emotion, to tell stories, and to transform—not just how others see you, but how you see yourself. It builds confidence in a very real, physical way.
There’s also something magical about the shared experience of it. Whether you’re on stage or in a class, you’re connecting with the people around you. That energy is addictive.
AM: Why is YAGP so important for those that are in the ballet community?
MGH: YAGP is incredibly important because it creates access and opportunity in a way that is truly life-changing for young dancers.
For many students, traveling around the world to audition for top schools and companies simply isn’t financially possible. What YAGP does is bring those opportunities to them. With regional competitions in many countries, dancers are able to be seen by panels of judges representing some of the most prestigious institutions in the world—Stuttgart Ballet, Princess Grace Academy, The Royal Ballet School, Paris Opera Ballet School, John Cranko School, La Scala, ABT, Miami City Ballet, and many more of the top companies across the United States.
It’s not just exposure—it’s a direct pathway. Through the support of donors, YAGP is able to help bring students to these competitions and award scholarships that can completely change the trajectory of a dancer’s life.
Beyond that, it creates a global community. Young dancers from different backgrounds, countries, and training styles come together, learn from one another, and feel part of something much bigger than themselves.
YAGP isn’t just shaping careers - it’s shaping the future of ballet.
AM: You are serving as the gala’s Creative Chair this year for the 2026 Stars of Today Meets the Stars of Tomorrow Gala. What does this role involve?
MGH: As Creative Chair, my role is to shape the overall experience of the evening - how it feels, how it flows, and how the audience connects to what they’re seeing.
That includes working closely with YAGP’s founder, Larissa Saveliev, on performance curation, pacing, transitions, and the emotional arc of the night. I’m thinking about everything from the energy in the room to how each moment builds on to the next.
And beyond that, my goal is to help make the night one of the most exciting ballet programs in New York this season - to bring in new audiences and create more fans of the art form by exposing them to different interpretations of ballet, and showing how expansive and relevant it can be today.
The party after the performance is also exciting and fun because we will have all of the performers with us. It gives guests a chance to meet the performers and understand how Youth America Grand Prix helped to make their dreams come true.
AM: What are you looking forward to for this year’s performance as well as the gala?
MGH: I’m most looking forward to that moment when everything comes together - the dancers, the music, the audience - and you can feel the energy shift in the room.
This gala is such a beautiful intersection of emerging talent and established artists, and there’s something really powerful about witnessing that exchange in real time.
I’m also especially excited to debut the pointe shoes that will be auctioned off for The Pointe Project. They’ll be on display for the first time at the gala, with designs from Carolina Herrera, Michael Kors, Alice + Olivia, Monse, and more. It’s such a unique fusion of fashion and ballet, and a really special way to celebrate creativity across disciplines. These pointe shoes will be available for all to bid on via Givebutter.com starting April 16 and closing one week later at 12pm EST on April 23rd.
AM: Are there any upcoming projects that we should keep an eye out for from you?
MGH: We have a lot of exciting things happening at The Pearl right now. We’re continuing to expand our collaborations and host pop-up wellness and fitness events for adults that feel both elevated and community-driven.
We’re also really focused on building meaningful programming for teens - from workout classes to “teen talks” featuring inspiring voices speaking on topics that matter to them. Creating a space where they feel strong, seen, and supported is incredibly important to me.
And starting this fall, we’ll be launching both a competitive cheer team and a dance team, led by top-tier instructors. It’s a natural extension of what The Pearl stands for - confidence, discipline, and community - just taken to the next level.
We wanted to talk with performers who will be part of YAGP Gala and caught up with ABT’s Christine Shevchenko and Calvin Royal III.
AM: When did you first fall in love with ballet?
CHRISTINE SHEVCHENKO: I vividly remember falling in love with ballet at the age of four. My mother took me backstage to see “The Sleeping Beauty.” A friend of hers was performing as a prima ballerina in Ukraine, and the show was quite lengthy - about three hours. I stood mesmerized in the wings, captivated by the music, costumes, lighting, and the enchanting story unfolding before me.
CALVIN ROYAL III: I came to ballet a bit later than most, at fourteen. At first, it was a curiosity more than anything, but I fell in love with the discipline, the music, and the feeling of discovering something I didn’t know I was capable of.
AM: When did you realize that you wanted to be a ballerina and to do it as a career?
CS: I realized I wanted to be a professional ballerina when I was around eleven. That was when things started to click for me, and I began truly enjoying my dance journey. Ballet consumed my thoughts; even in school, my mind would wander to ballet classes and rehearsals.
CR III: When I started training seriously and saw how much growth was possible, I realized this could be more than just a hobby. Being introduced to opportunities like YAGP, summer intensives, and eventually a scholarship to the ABT School made it that much more real. That this could actually be a path forward.
AM: What does it mean to you to dance for ABT and is there a specific performance that you are excited about that you will do this Spring or Summer season?
CS: Dancing for ABT means the world to me. This has been my dream company ever since I admired legends like Baryshnikov and Makarova, as well as the extensive classical repertoire they offer. I’m particularly thrilled to perform “Don Quixote” again this season; it’s one of my beloved ballets. Additionally, I’m eagerly anticipating my role in “Onegin.”
CR III: Dancing with ABT has been one of the defining chapters of my life. It’s where I grew up, both as an artist and as a person from student to Principal dancer over the years. There’s a deep sense of responsibility in carrying forward the company’s legacy while also finding my own voice within it. This season, I’m looking forward to exploring roles that challenge me both technically and emotionally, and allow me to deepen my artistry. I’m constantly searching for ways to bring meaning and sincerity to the stage every time the curtain goes up.
AM: Why is YAGP so important to ballet?
CS: YAGP plays a crucial role in the ballet world because it offers life-changing opportunities for young dancers to be noticed by some of the most influential figures in the industry. It fosters resilience and confidence, provides invaluable stage experience, and creates lasting friendships.
CR III: YAGP creates access. It’s a platform that opened doors for myself and thousands of young dancers, for decades, who may not otherwise have a clear path into the professional world. I see it as a program that continues to shape the next generation by connecting talent with opportunity on a global scale.
AM: What are you looking forward to for this year’s 2026 Stars of Today Meets the Stars of Tomorrow Gala?
CS: I am excited to perform alongside world-class dancers who are also friends, and to inspire a new generation of dancers to chase their dreams.
CR III: There’s something really special about bringing together established artists and young dancers on the same stage. I’ll never forget being an aspiring dancer looking up to the pros. Returning this year feels full circle, and a reminder of the continuum of this art form. I’m looking forward to that exchange of energy and inspiration when the curtain rises at Lincoln Center next month.
This year’s auctioned pointe shoe designs are those that we are excited about as mentioned by Marcella. Libby Klein is also contributing a design at this year’s Gala. We wanted to know more about her aesthetic and why she wanted to participate.
AM: How would you describe your work’s aesthetic?
LIBBY KLEIN: My work is rooted in beauty, but not surface-level beauty. It is layered, intentional, and deeply symbolic.
I am a mother of six, and that shapes everything I create. Every day I am balancing two worlds, art and home. Being a mother is not something separate from my work. It is part of it.
I lost my father at a young age, and that gave me a different relationship with life early on. I learned to notice what is fragile, what is meaningful, and what truly lasts. I also come from a family built on tradition and entrepreneurship, the Reichmans, where creating and building something lasting was always part of our foundation.
Alongside that, I was deeply influenced by my great-grandmother. She carried a quiet strength and an understanding that being a woman is not only about what you give to others, but also what you create from within yourself. That stayed with me.
So I built a life where both could exist. I am raising a family, and I am also an artist. I never saw those as separate roles.
My work reflects that balance. It holds beauty and responsibility, softness and strength, tradition and growth. It is not about escaping life, it is about taking everything life gives you and turning it into something meaningful.
I am drawn to blending old and new, preserving tradition while allowing it to evolve. You will see that in my work through delicate, timeless compositions, florals, birds, and natural elements, each one placed with intention.
So the aesthetic is beauty, but beauty with depth, with story, and with purpose.
AM: Where do you look for inspiration when it comes to creating new pieces?
LK: I look at my life.
My children, my home, and the way I choose to see the world, even when it is not simple, especially when it is not simple.
I have always believed that you can either focus on what is broken, or you can choose to find the beauty within it. That choice is where my work comes from.
I create from that perspective. I want to bring into the world the beauty that I see. I want people to feel something when they look at my work, to see light, to see hope, to see something good.
A lot of that is rooted in the power of women. In motherhood, in creation, in the quiet strength that women carry every single day. There is something incredibly powerful about being a woman, about holding so much, building so much, and still choosing softness. That balance inspires me constantly.
If someone can walk away from a piece and feel even a little more grounded, a little more inspired, or simply reminded that there is still beauty in the world, then I have done what I set out to do.
At the end of the day, it is about making the world feel a little brighter, a little softer, and a little more whole.
AM: Why did you want to be involved in the 2026 Stars of Today Meets the Stars of Tomorrow Gala?
LK: As a mother of six, this felt deeply personal to me.
I understand how important it is to nurture talent and to give children a space to grow, to express themselves, and to believe in what they are capable of. Life is not always easy, but when a child is given the opportunity to create, to move, and to be seen, it can shape everything.
This gala represents that. It is not just about performance, it is about possibility.
Being part of something that uplifts the next generation, that gives young dancers a platform and a sense of belief in themselves, is incredibly meaningful to me.
It aligns with everything I value, family, growth, resilience, and the ability to create something beautiful even through challenge.
AM: Tell us about the pointe shoes that you designed that will be auctioned off on this night?
LK: I chose to center the design around the poppy flower because its symbolism really spoke to me. There is something about the poppy. It represents hope, renewal, and resilience how something can grow and bloom even after difficulty. The more I thought about it, the more it felt so connected to ballet.
I also felt a personal connection to it. I grew up in Israel, and this kind of flower is deeply tied to the land. It carries a quiet message of strength, of healing, and of the idea that even in places that have seen so much, beauty can still grow.
What you see on stage is beautiful, but what it takes to get there is not easy. It is repetition, pressure, setbacks, and still choosing to get back up and keep going. That is the poppy to me.
The red carries that strength. It is soft, but it is not weak. That duality feels very feminine to me, the idea that softness and strength exist together.
I added a young bambi into the design because it felt like these dancers, at the beginning of something, still growing, still stepping into who they are becoming.
The butterflies bring a sense of transformation, that everything is constantly unfolding.
And the bees are something very personal to me. There is this idea that a bee should not be able to fly, but because it does not know its limitations, it does anyway. That reflects how I see life as a mother and as an artist, and it is something I see in these dancers as well.
So the shoes are not just decorative. They are a reflection of that whole journey, of becoming, of pushing through, and of finding beauty in it all, and a quiet hope for more unity, peace, and beauty in the world.
AM: Are there any upcoming projects or things we should keep an eye out for?
LK: Lately, I’ve been working on a collection that feels very close to me, the Glow Collection. It really comes from the idea that light doesn’t always come easily, sometimes it’s something you find after moving through darker moments. That kind of beauty, the kind that is built, not given, is something I’ve come to appreciate more over time.
I’ve also been involved in different fundraising efforts and creating pieces that support women, including work around breast cancer awareness. That part of what I do is very important to me, making sure the art gives back and reaches beyond itself.
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | YAGP
Read the MAR ISSUE #123 of Athleisure Mag and see YOUTH ON POINTE | YAGP Gala in mag.
Read the MAR ISSUE #123 of Athleisure Mag and see 9LIST STORI3S | Morgan Riddle in mag.
The month of Feb is beyond busy but this year with the addition of the Winter Games 2026, Super Bowl, Grammys and of course, NYFW it’s a lot of activity! NYFW FW26 took place from Feb 11th - 16th and this season, we attended an array of runway shows and presentations as well as backstage coverage. As we do each season, we go over some of the shows that stuck out with us as well as interviews that took place along the way.
LOVESHACKFANCY NYFW FW26
We kicked off this season of NYFW heading backstage to NY based LOVESHACKFANCY which is known for their whimsical collections. Founder and Creative Director Rebecca Hessel Cohen held this runway show at Cooper Hewitt’s Gilded Age mansion and transformed the historic landmark into a sanctuary of romantic vibes. By using history as her guide as well as the social codes of Gossip Girl, she shared that her muse, “is feminine yet opinionated, romantic yet ironic, a little dramatic and fully self-aware. When you’re looking at her, it’s as if she’s been dancing through the halls of Versaille, yet also entirely of the moment.” This upcoming season’s collection is filled with pastels that are grounded in espresso, soft florals that are precisely tailored, and beaded mesh corsetry. With tones of blush, powder blue, deep bordeaux, choclate, gunmetal and more.
Courtesy of Goody, Wet Brush, and Bio Ionic, we watched the hair look and its inspiration come together with Brent Lawler, Celebrity Hairstylist and Lead Hairstylist for this show who talked with us about how he created the look and he even provided a 9 step process on how we can create the look.
He shared that the look was focused on an undone-yet-polished look. “We wanted the hair to feel very chic, but relaxed - a heritage reinterpreted. I wanted a concept that is clear and cohesive. I love a bow and bows are part of the DNA of the brand. I wanted to give a look that is more lived in, more casual, more wintry, and natural. It’s the girl that loves to party but also loves poetry. so if she wakes up in the morning with the bow still in her hair, she just throws on her ballet flat and heads out the door for coffee.”
This look of being undone is one that definitely can be worn to the office, heading to the studio for your workout, and of course to grab cocktails and a meal later!
Because we loved this look and hearing the inspiration behind it, Brent shared with Athleisure Mag how you can create this look in 9 easy steps to bring it from the runway to your every day!
9 STEP HAIRSTYLE
• Step 1: Brush out tangles & negate frizz with the Wet Brush Frizz Free Detangler.
• Step 2: Put a little mousse at the roots for texture and volume.
• Step 3: Use Bio Ionic Smart X Hair Dryer on high heat fast speed to quickly get out any moisture.
• Step 4: Section the hair with Goody Luxe Claw Clips.
• Step 5: Use Bio Ionic Long Barrel Curling Iron in 1.5 inch to create loose waves with natural bends.
• Step 6: Use Batiste Powder Dry Shampoo and Batiste Original Dry Shampoo along the roots for increased volume and texture (which builds the texture and creates airy volume).
• Step 7: Grab pieces of hair and pull back into a Goody Comfortflex thin hair tie, or Goody Clear Elastics, then pull the hair tie down to create a looser look. It allows it to hold the low ponies that were shown in the show.
• Step 8: Go into the ends of and push the Batiste powder into the hair to create more volume and texture.
• Step 9: Add a bow on top of the Goody hair tie.
NEW YORK MEN’S DAY SESSION I FW26
New York Men’s Day is always a great day to see runway shows and presentations that focus on menswear. Held at Mercedes-Benz Manhattan, we were able to connect with collections from brands we enjoy seeing each season as well as those that are new to us.
AVON ANGLERS
NY based Avon Anglers is founded by designer Patrik Rzepski in 2021 and made it’s NYMD debut this season. This collection was filled with wardrobe staples through elevated materials, precise construction, and a restrained point of view. The brand is focused on maintaining and preserving the craft of sewing, maintaining relationships with local makeries and factories as well as being focused on reducing excess by making less, but better.
A.POTTS
A.Potts is a staple of NYMD and is known for clothing that is easy and makes a statement. This season we enjoyed seeing neutral pieces from the collection that also has great visual texture through garments that moved as it hit the runway.
CHELSEA GRAYS
Chelsea Grays theme known as DROWNING presented a luxury streetwear 14-look collection that blends oversized tweed, navy ombré nubby wools, and technical materials with cargo shorts.
PEAK LAPEL
For the past few seasons, we have enjoyed seeing Peak Lapel’s presentation. This season, their theme, Breaking Home Ties focused on a modern, rugged, and refined take on workwear and preppy, traditional codes. Key pieces included standout tailored outerwear, prep styles, and a blend of polished, and functional pieces.
PROJECT BY INFORMA LAS VEGAS PREVIEW
Pieces that showed within this presentation from the morning session as well as the afternoon one were previews of brands that you could see ahead of PROJECT by Informa Las Vegas which took place Feb 17th - 19th. Guests were able to see Devereaux Golf, Goat by James King, GWOP Meet,
KNOTWTR, Lost My Accent, Monadic, Moshe Yossel, Psycho Bunny, Public Drip, RTA, and Ryoko Rain.
FREDERICK ANDERSON FW26
We always enjoy attending Frederick Anderson’s runway shows as it always has drama and great silhouettes. This year, Tony Award nominee Amber Iman (Soul Doctor, Shuffle Along, Hamilton), kicked off the show singing Nina Simone’s Feeling Good. As 34 looks hit the runway, attendees enjoyed hearing bluesy songs from Amy Winehouse and Nina Simone. The looks were a mix of separates and one pieces that pulled from fabrications that included: Chantilly lace, wool tweeds, tulle, chiffon and metallic laser-cut vegan leather. Frederick shared that he, “wanted to write a story about finding strength in all the blackness. We’re in a black time, and you can find an inner strength in that. Throughout the collection, there’s all these layers and different fabrications that layer on top. It’s all in the details and it’s all for the woman to enjoy. It isn’t for everyone.”
IG @frederickanderson_designer
NEW YORK MEN’S DAY SESSION II FW26
CHRISTOPHER LOWMAN FW26
For the second session of NYMD, we enjoyed seeing another round of great looks. This portion of NYMD included designers who made their debut this season.
SKI TRIP was the theme of Christopher Lowman’s FW26 collection which merged alpine sport with downtown ease. The performance fabrics used in the line included neoprene, gabardine, double-sided fleece, and boiled wool that was finely tailored into exaggerated silhouettes with a palette that embraced all that is winter oriented.
MONDAY BLUES, STUDIO FW26
One of the most interesting brands that showed at this platform was Monday Blues, Studio. This brand is rooted in sustainability. What really struck out was garments that reimagined discarded burlap coffee bags into one-of-a-kind, made-to-order couture garments.
WANGDA FW26
A new to us designer was Wangda that created strong menswear pieces that showcase how you can look dapper while having an elegance that makes you think of Old Hollywood brought forward as well as east meets west sensibility. By blending in America, British and Japanese aesthetics, something completely new was presented within this collection of warm tones and deep eggplant hued suiting.
SCIENCE PROJECT COMPANY FW26
Our favorite designer that shows all day at NYMD was Science Project Company hands down. Seeing a runway show that also featured a presentation was a great way to enjoy this line of menswear apparel along with bags that you could imagine in any of your tunnel fashion views from your sport of choice!
The collection reflects the man on the go who is navigating between a number of activities that tru;y tale him from day to night. Standouts included outerwear, multi-pocketed pants, and a very large weekender bag that we continue to think about.
MODEST NOW X MUSLIMI
During the Modest Now X MUSLIMI runway show, we were able to see 2 lines that showcased their designs. In womenswear, Amariah had luxe elegant pieces that literally floated down the runway whether they were separates or dresses in tulle, lace and a number of fabrications across hues.
For menswear, we were treated to Athari Wear that really showcased a lifestyle collection of looks from what one would wear to work out, run errands, and to go out for a nice meal. In addition, a number of accessories and sneakers from the brand really rounded out this line.
Both shows were a great way to showcase modest dressing and it was easy to see how these items could be seen on the street or in your favorite show.
LAQUAN SMITH FW26
Going backstage is a great way to see the looks come together where beauty and fashion truly support one another. We were invited to go backstage at LaQuan Smith via KISS and we had the opportunity to chat with Celebrity Nail Artist/Manicurist Gina Edwards to find out about the inspiration behind the nail look and how it tied into the overall vision of this FW26 show which included structured silhouettes, sharp tailoring and Bond Girl vibes.
ATHLEISURE MAG: We always enjoy when we see you backstage at iconic fashion shows. The last time we were with you, it was at Prabal Garung’s FW24 and we’re here with you today for LaQuann Smith’s FW26. What can you tell us about the direction of the nails that we will see today?
GINA EDWARDS: These are the nail looks for the show. What we did with LaQuann is that he is all about edgy, tailoring to a tee and this season’s inspo is the James Bond Girl.
The Bond Girl is a structural and intentional woman! With that, we did the KISS (their new branding) with their core collection which comes in your classic colors, your trends, and your classic French with the Chrome. These are long, and they’re oval, and you want it Stiletto and they are shaped nails like a bullet now. So think about James Bond, he’s always carrying a gun with bullets. Some of the models are wearing the more classic French out of the box. Others are wearing the Chrome finish. With the French, we’re just shaping them out to a Stiletto which is Fascinating - that’s the name of those.
With the Chrome, we customized a mixed chrome finish to give it more like a gunmetal.
AM: Right.
GE: To make it that bullet, you see it here. I mean, we have seen Chrome over and over again, but the fact that when you could in terms of relate it to the collection and how it is all cohesive, it kind of really is amazing.
AM: How long did it take for you to come up with this concept as we know that, like, you go through the files!
GE: So, I can’t speak for him, but I know that he had this woman in mind. He envisioned that she had this strong, powerful edginess, and we wanted to take that and put into context and put that onto the nail right. Thinking back to James Bond, you have this fierce sensibility with guns.
He wanted that type of woman to show on the nails. And I think KISS nailed it again – the whole team. We just came up with an idea of just having this gunmetal finish to match with a lot of what you’re going to see in his pieces/ The shoes, the hair it was all how to tie that all into what he envisions on a nail for this collection.
AM: So the classic French can be purchased and is ready to go out of the box.
GE: Yes, right out of the box, you could purchase the French, the French classic. It’s called Fascinating and is part of the collection by KISS which is a staple in their line.
AM: Now, if you wanted to recreate the Chrome one at home, how can we do that as we know that this was done custom for this NYFW FW26 runway show?
GE: Yeah, so it’s a little tricky because I did mix the chrome to get this finish. It’s a DIY you can do on your own. You can pick out a chrome finish and maybe add a little black to it to kind of give it a little deepness, and then you go from there you add your gel and then you buff it down, you know? It’s like 20 different steps, but we do have the how-to guide for those people that want to do it!
AM: For our gel people out there who go in get their nails done and then on their next visit, they get it removed and get another gel, how can they keep the skin on their hands looking amazing? Right now we’re navigating the Winter here in NYC which is very tough on the skin and drying!
GE: The first thing I would say is to carry cuticle oil with you at all times! Your skin needs to stay moisturized especially at night! Just like your face has day cream and night cream! Having this for your hands will keep them moisturized and it’s also about building up your fats internally. You know, make sure you’re eating avocados and nutrients that create those fats which helps your skin. and out of oil, you know, it’s really fat. You want to make sure that you are getting the most natural oils that are good for you from the inside out!
If you’re interested in achieving the Chrome look at home that Gina customized for this show, she tells us how we can do this in 3 simple ways.
• Step 1: Select and size KISS CORE Collection nail in Fascinating and customize shape into a sharp stiletto.
• Step 2: Apply nail glue to the artificial nail and the natural nail, then press down gently, repeat on all ten nails.
• Step 3: Leave as is for the classic French tip look, or layer on your favorite bullet chrome on top for the dark silver finish.
VEEJAY FLORESCA FW26
For our final NYFW show, we made our way to the Ritz Carlton NoMad to see the latest Project Runway S21 winner Veejay Floresca where she showcased her FW26 Collection Presentation. During her season we enjoyed how she attacked each of the challenges creating stunning looks. So we knew that her show was going to be one that we had to see.
Veejay’s collection was filled with modern glamour, designed to evoke confidence, sensuality, and individuality. Her inspiration for this season came from Willem de Kooning’s abstract expressionist paintings. She wove in bold, gestural color and layered textures into tactile fabrics, heavy knits, and sculptural finishes that create movement and depth. Oversized, fluid silhouettes balance spontaneity and control, resulting in pieces that feel both striking and wearable. As she is known as an eveningwear and special occasion designer, she explored color, texture, and form through an elevated yet effortless lens. In attendance were a number of designers from her season as well as Christian Sriano.
PHOTOGRAPHY | PG 129 LoveShackFancy | PG 130 Peak Lapel NYC | PG 133 Estelle Sweeney | PG 134 Ben Hider | PG 137 Michael Pagara |
Read the FEB ISSUE #122 of Athleisure Mag and see NYFW FW26 EDIT in mag.
Read the FEB ISSUE #122 of Athleisure Mag and see 9LOOKS | Alice + Olivia in mag.
We’re days into the New Year and we’re making sure that we are setting ourselves up for the best success! Although we know that the 1st is the beginning of the year, it’s that first Monday that really lets us know what we’re in for. Jan 5th is really the beginning of a series of days and weeks where we really have to get in gear!
We sat down with actor, standup comedian, producer, Co-Creator and star of Netflix’s Survival of the Thickest Michelle Buteau to talk about her career, her creative process, her projects and why she partnered with Premier Protein! She talks about the importance of showing up for herself and being good to herself.
ATHLEISURE MAG: Hello! We met briefly at Chuks Collins dinner this Fall when he shared his collection at Bryant Park Grill. I was waiting to be seated, turned around and then there you were looking stunning walking by and all I could get out was, I love you in Survival of the Thickest!
MICHELLE BUTEAU: Oh yes, that was a great dinner and Chuks is so special!
AM: Yes it was such a good dinner and it’s great talking with you now.
MB: I love to hear that people love the show because it makes me feel like I am doing my job, so thank you for that! I will never get tired of that.
AM: I am a fan of your energy, your humor, your authenticity and all the things! Honestly, I don’t know where I was in life, but it wasn’t until the pandemic that I was like wait who is this – I loved you on Netflix’s Barbecue Showdown, you were the host of a social reality show that I loved watching, being on BET’s First Wives Club – I was like this woman is working! You literally got me through the pandemic which then brought me to watching the other things that you do as well!
You’re an actress, a comedian, a producer, a host, you can do drama – when did you realize that you wanted to be an entertainer?
MB: Oh my goodness! I feel that every kid thinks that they can be an entertainer. I think that it was when I was around 12 or 13 that I was like, “I think that I want to do this” to my parents and they were like, no you don’t. I don’t think that I really told myself or gave myself permission or license to really go far with this until my 20’s which is so crazy, but you know, whatever makes you happy!
AM: Well, whether you’re preparing for a character or an upcoming film, or series, what is your creative process or what do you pull from when you’re trying to get ready for things that you’re working on?
MB: You know, that’s such a great question! I don’t really have a process, the main thing that I have to do, because I have a husband, 2 dogs, 2 kids, are responsibilities at home and in life. The main thing for me to do is that I am happy and healthy, that I have all of my vitamins, and I am taking care of myself because my brain is working! When I have a good amount of rest because I like to be busy – the main thing is that I am taking care of me throughout the day!
AM: In Survival of the Thickest, I love it with the energy of that show! You are showing the industry and what goes on in it. I am the Co-Founder/Creative + Style Dir of Athleisure Mag but I am also a Fashion Stylist. So when I am watching the show and your character, I’m like oh yeah – that is what it is!
MB: Yeah, you get it!
AM: Yup, I’m like, that’s pretty much it! It’s glam when it’s glam and then it’s just not.
MB: Yeah and I love that about it. It’s a parallel to comedy which is why I chose that job for my character. That job will humble you real quick and the next day you could be flying first class or private in this whole different realm, so I think it is important to know that there are a whole of different places that you can live especially with the job that you love.
AM: What made you want to be a Co-Creator of this show and also star in it as well? I know that you’re back in production on S3 and I am so bummed that this will be the final season – but the series has everything!
MB: I mean, it was just really natural right? I have been doing standup for 24 years and it has helped me figure out my voice, my platform – and when I wrote this book when I brought my kids home from the hospital. I was like, “oh, I have twin babies now and I guess I will be at home so I need to write a book – I mean what? What?” But I will say, hot tip, I do put some Premier Protein Shake in my coffee because that’s how I get my protein! I get my coffee kick, my caffeine kick, my protein kick! So that was very helpful! Obviously lots of hugs and fresh hugs too – but anyways!
AM: What is life without fresh veggies and hugs?
MB: Ok now! Downward dogs and everything – cat/cow!
I mean, I wrote the book and then when Netflix optioned the book, they said, “do you want to build this world yourself or would you like to work with someone?” There’s nothing better than collaborating. When you find the right person it just sings and so I am so happy that Netflix introduced me to my Co-Creator Danielle Sanchez-Witzel (My Name is Earl, New Girl, The Carmichael Show) because we had a time! We had a whole kiki! It’s been so fun! It is 3rd and final, but that’s ok because I think that it is a gift knowing that you are not coming back so that you can do what you want to do. Also, no one is a 1 trick pony! We can go out there and do other things – I mean look at you!
AM: Tell me about The Surviving and Thriving Tour!
MB: Oh my goodness! Well, you know, everybody has got – the whole point is that we can live in 2 places at once. While we feel like this is really hard, there also some really good things too. You have to wake up really early, but isn’t it really good that you get to wake up really early and get to do all the things that you want to do? I feel like being busy or stressed is a privilege – I get to have the responsibility to do these things which is really fun. So Surviving and Thriving is named kind of after that. I love standup and I can’t wait to go back out on tour. I love performing and just writing hard jokes, hard jokes. I want people bending over with laughter! I want people to just be cackling because laughter is medicine and I’m a doctor!
AM: I mean, I will take in all the prescriptions that you’re providing!
MB: Yeah! There’s no Co-Pay, come get you some laughs!
AM: Spa Weekend looks amazing! It’s a great cast! Why did you want to be part of that project?
MB: I mean, there is just this beautiful, wild and comedic powerhouses coming together! I love Isla Fisher (Now You See Me franchise, Confessions of a Shopaholic, Nocturnal Animals), Leslie Mann (The Other Woman, Blockers, Motherless Brooklyn), Anna Faris (Scary Movie franchise, Mom, The House Bunny) and how could I not want to be part of that team? I also love the idea of strong female bonds and relationships when we are from different walks of life. The one thing that we have in common is that the women of Spa Weekend, go on a spa weekend because they need it. They are really busy with the responsibilities and the mundane things that are done in life and they have to go away. They just go away for a wild weekend and they just have a lot of fun stuff going on and a lot of hijinks!
AM: I cannot wait to see it!
You recently partnered with Premier Protein as a part of their New Year campaign and Go Get ‘Em Mode. Tell me about this mode and what it is and why did you want to partner with this brand?
MB: Oh my goodness because I like to Go Get’ Em so let’s Go Get ‘Em, come on sis – let’s roll! Are you for real? So I remember and this was a full circle moment. My dad, he was like the busiest man alive. He would lift weights in between meetings, take me to the mall and he was so busy. He would always have a Premier Protein Shake! So I grew up watching the busiest man I know always being in Go Mode and getting it done and always taking care of his body. So when Premier Protein Shake approached me, I said yes! Everyone knows about that hard start of the year at the top of January 1st and it isn’t always that and then people beat themselves up – it’s the Monday – it’s the January 5th of it all. It’s really exciting because Premier Protein wants to set people up for success by going to goget2026.com and you can go on there and try them out for free! They will send it to you in your house in select cities (Atlanta, NY, Chicago, LA, Philadelphia and Miami). We all know what that is! We know what the pre-party is before you have to go to work so it’s that 5-9 where you’re like, uh-oh how am I going to do this, who am I going to be, what am I going to wear? You know, can I touch my toes, will I have enough energy – yes you can! It’s Premier Protein and they want to help you get that energy sis so let’s go!
AM: I love that and a shake is a great way to do all of that!
What do you love about drinking these shakes? Do you have a special flavor?
MB: I’m a Chocolate or Caramel girlie! What I love about it is that I am doing something for myself. I feel like because women – I mean, I’m no doctor – I only play one on TV – actually I did!
AM: I was going to say you did!
MB: You got me!
AM: You did!
MB: We need between 40 and 65 grams of protein a day. So you get 30 in one shot with the bottle, it’s like pretty great! When I have more energy, I’m nicer to people! There’s no road rage you know what I mean? I hope you heal! Oh my God there’s a spot! I found a parking spot? Yes you can cut me in line! You go –
AM: That’s right!
MB: I’m just a nicer person when I have more energy. So yes, I do that for myself - treat yo’self all year long!
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | Netflix/Vanessa Clifton
Read the JAN ISSUE #121 of Athleisure Mag and see GO GET’EM MODEL | Michelle Buteau in mag.
It’s been another great NFL season and it all culminates with Super Bowl LX which takes place on Feb 8th at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, CA, the home of the San Francisco 49ers! This year, the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots will battle it out to see who will be the champions! During this time of year, there are a number of events and activations taking place. One of them is Origins: An NFL Collection which in addition to be a collaborative line of apparel that is created with designers who are in the community that the Super Bowl is being held, but it is a time where those who are in the area can enjoy the pop-up! We wanted to find out more about this collection, the pop-up event, the NFL’s committment to highlighting artists and bringing them in to the experience of Game Day! We took some time to catch up with the Director of Marketing and E-Commerce at the NFL, Ashley Daniel to find out about this and more.
ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell me a bit about your background prior to coming to the NFL.
ASHLEY DANIEL: I’ve spent most of my career since coming out of college working for the NFL. During undergrad, I volunteered with the Super Bowl Host Committee and later interned with the NFL in the Media Strategy & Business Development department. After graduating, I was selected for the NFL’s Rotational Program and have continued to grow my career within the Consumer Products department ever since.
AM: As the Director of Marketing and E-Commerce at the NFL, what does your role entail?
AD: The role is dynamic, which is one of its most rewarding aspects. My work ranges from leading our Local Club Collaboration Program and developing capsule collections with small, local brands to collaborating with our advertising team on national NFL Shop TV campaigns. At its core, the position is about tying inspiration to conversion and strengthening fans’ connections to their cities and teams through product.
AM: Tell us about Origins: An NFL Collection in terms of why this program was created and what it serves to do.
AD: The Origins program was first developed for the Super Bowl in Los Angeles. Although we produce incredible Super Bowl merchandise, there was an opportunity to showcase products from local brands that authentically represent the host city and its communities. The program emerged from that insight, grounded in the belief that every host city is home to artists and designers who reveal dimensions of the city often overlooked.
AM: How do you go about finding designers to partner with, and what are you looking for?
AD: Each year, the approach evolves. In previous years, my colleague, Xaimara Coss, who is also a Director on the Consumer Products team at the NFL, and I relied heavily on web research and social media, tracking who was showing up at local markets, consistently launching collections, actively engaging with their communities, and creating truly distinctive work. This year, we partnered with our licensing partner, NoCallerID, to support the search. Together, we spent several weeks reviewing candidates and hosting introductory conversations before ultimately selecting the final group of brands.
AM: Tell me about the designers who will be participating in this year’s Origins: An NFL Collection.
AD: Each designer brings a distinctly different point of view, which is what makes this group so compelling. Aaron De La Cruz is an artist by trade, and his work immediately stood out to us, particularly his use of shape and movement, which introduced an aesthetic we hadn’t previously explored within the Origins program. We knew he would bring a bold, unexpected reinterpretation of the Super Bowl. Nostalgia approaches design through incredibly unique silhouettes; when we saw a previous collection featuring intricate woven paisleys, it was clear they would offer a fresh perspective on what fan apparel can be. Lastly, there’s Blvck Scvle, an iconic Bay Area streetwear brand that has been shaping the culture since 2007. Their product is elevated and refined, with exceptionally strong design execution. Together, the three brands form a powerful cohort that authentically represents the spirit and creativity of the Bay.
AM: This year, there will be a one-day pop-up event ahead of the Super Bowl in the Bay Area. Tell us more about this.
AD: Each year, we host a launch pop-up retail event that serves as the first opportunity for fans and the community to shop the new collection. The event brings together shopping, music, and a strong community presence in support of the participating brands, attracting both locals and visitors in search of authentic Super Bowl products and experiences. This year’s launch will take place on Thursday, February 5, at the Pearl from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is free and open to the public.
AM: For those who are unable to attend the event, how can they be part of this experience?
AD: On Friday, February 6, at 9 AM ET, the product goes live on NFLShop.com/origins. They can also follow the brand stories as they launch on @NFL on IG and on NFL.com/origins.
AM: In terms of the Super Bowl, will this collection of Origins: An NFL Collection be at the stadium?
AD: No. Any product that does not sell out at the launch event will be sold at the NFL Shop Presented by Visa at Super Bowl Experience Presented by Jersey Mike’s.
AM: Are there any upcoming projects that you would like to share with us that we should know about at the NFL that you are involved in?
AD: There are a lot of great drops coming out around the Super Bowl. We can’t say much right now, but stay tuned.
IG @nfl
After speaking with Ashley about Origins: NFL Collection, we wanted to talk with one of the designer collaborators, Aaron De La Cruz, to find out more about his work, participating in this assortment, and more!
AM: Before we delve into this collaboration that you did with Origins: An NFL Collection, can you tell me about your background and what led you to design?
AARON DE LA CRUZ: From as far back as I can remember, I have loved to draw. As a kid growing up in the 80’s and 90’s, I spent a majority of my time outside surrounded by skate and graffiti culture. The graphics I would see on clothing, skateboards and art in the streets influenced me to create my own at home, school and, eventually, on the streets too. I was fortunate enough to have the support of my parents and teachers who recognized my talent, which helped me get into programs and eventually art school. I graduated from college with a BFA and went into teaching art for ten years until I became a parent and I decided to pursue being a full-time artist. That was exactly 13 years ago this month – wow, time flies! I’m the first full-time artist in my family, so my main focus is to show my kids that being a creative for a living is possible. This occupation is hard and definitely has its challenges. They are old enough now to see what it’s really like, but projects like this are moments to celebrate and make it feel like a dream come true.
AM: You have done a number of collaborations with Maison Margiela, Diesel, ESPN, etc. What is the creative process that you go into when you are creating something for or with another brand?
ADLC: When taking on collaborative projects, I prefer to have a personal connection with the client or find a way to connect the project to my family. Because many of my works are considered abstract at times, they can appear as decorative considering the context in which they are displayed. I always try to find a way to integrate my family into these types of projects because, for me, these are the people in my life I’m surrounded by the most. When given the opportunity, I make it a point to provide a story that will connect with the audience, especially for those who are interested in what’s beyond the surface.
AM: How much does the Bay Area influence your work?
ADLC: The Bay is a special place. We have a rich history of movements that were born here that have spread throughout the world. That, plus our unique landscape, draws people to visit and live here, including myself. I don’t know if the Bay is something visually noticeable in my work, but I can say the culture here has definitely influenced what I do with my artwork. Social justice is something very important to me, and I use my art as a vehicle to express my opinions. I try my best to donate works to nonprofits that are doing amazing work. I also give away my work from time to time for those who might not be able to afford it and promote social interaction.
AM: As one of the collaborators in the Origins: An NFL Collection, what does it mean to you to be part of this project?
ADLC: This project is HUGE! As a kid, I was a big NFL fan, and now as a parent, football plays a big part in my life 24/7. I have twin sons (and a wife) who are borderline obsessed with the sport, so for me to be involved at this level is definitely a project I am happy about, and so are they. Being Mexican and a fan of the sport, you don’t see much representation on the field, so for me, this project was an opportunity for us to be seen at this level. I really wanted to show any kids who are artists or have a desire to play the sport that we can find ways to be seen on and off the field in the NFL.
AM: What were you inspired by in terms of the items that you designed in this collaboration?
ADLC: Many of the works I create involve the idea of deconstruction and breaking something down to its simplest form. For the collection, I wanted to create something that my fan base – who might not be football fans – would appreciate, and for football fans who aren’t familiar with my work would recognize.
First, the use of black and white was inspired by the referee uniform. The referee is someone who plays a big part in the game and, at times, can control the game. The artwork on the garments is scaled at 2” wide, which is the width of the black and white stripes found on the official NFL referee uniform.
Second was the location of the artwork. This was inspired by the player, their passion and what they put their body through playing the sport. I created an all-over design because they take hits all over the body and sometimes walk away with wounds and scars that they have for life, all for the love of the sport.
Third was the design, I created unique marks using my signature style that reference routes found in a playbook. I wanted to capture the simplest thing that was recognizable and had that feel of hand-drawn.
I wanted to capture the simplest thing that was recognizable and had that feel of hand-drawn.
The colors of the garments are white on black (chalk on board), black on white (marker on dry erase board) and the grey colorway is a nod to San Francisco and our reputation for being covered in fog.
AM: Are there any upcoming projects that you would like to share with us that we should know about?
ADLC: Please be on the lookout for the online release of the collection at AARONDELACRUZ.COM on Feb 7th. If you happen to be in San Francisco for the Super Bowl, be on the lookout for a city-wide project I’m doing on Feb 6th. This project will involve me creating 11 original works of art and dropping them off at 11 different locations throughout the city. I’m using this as an opportunity for people to discover and support independently owned businesses within the 11 districts (11 players on the field!) of San Francisco. All of this will take place on my Instagram (@aarondelacruz) so you will need to follow and see what happens!
Aside from that, I’m working on multiple projects and continuing to play this game of life while supporting my team (family). Trying my best to win the MVP for being the best Dad in the league and not end up on the injured reserve list haha.
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS | Origins: An NFL Collection
Read the JAN ISSUE #121 of Athleisure Mag and see ORIGINS an NFL Collection in mag.
PHOTO CREDIT | Ralph Lauren | Team USA Opening Ceremony Ice Dancers Evan Bates (1G) and Madison Chock (1G)
The Winter Olympics 2026 takes place from Feb 6 - 22nd in Milano Cortina (these games will be co-hosted by Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo)! It’s a time to see your favorite athletes competing on a global stage from curling, snowboarding, alpine skiing and more. As we get closer to these games, we also enjoy seeing when each country unveils the looks for the teams from Opening Ceremony, Closing Ceremony and for competition looks. Ralph Lauren who has Team USA Olympic and Paralympic athletes for nearly 20 years unveiled their uniforms.
As we watch the Opening Ceremony, you’ll see Team USA arriving in a white wool coat with wooden toggles, a turtleneck sweater and wool trousers that are tailored. For the Closing Ceremony, they will have a color-block puffer jacket, wool turtleneck sweater, and white utility pants. Accessories will include knit mittens in red, white, and blue as well as a leather belt and suede alpine boots.
Via a release, David Lauren, Ralph Lauren’s Chief Branding and Innovation Officer shared that, “Ralph Lauren has had the immense privilege of outfitting Team USA for nearly 20 years, and the significance and sheer magnitude of dressing our nation’s incredible athletes—on the most dramatic stage in sport as they pursue their lifelong dreams—is an honor that never fades. Our design philosophy has always been about creating dreams and telling stories through style, and these uniforms, both timeless and modern, reflect the passion, optimism, and relentless pursuit of excellence that embody the American spirit.”
Each time they present the looks, the brand also features athletes who will be participating in the games.
PHOTO CREDIT | Ralph Lauren | Team USA Closing Ceremony Snowboarder Red Gerard (1G)
“I’ve been doing a lot of training, spending a lot of time over in Europe pretty close to where we’ll be competing in Milan,” says Red Gerard. “Trying to get better snowboarding but in a safe way without getting hurt before the Olympics! I’m stoked to represent Team USA with Ralph Lauren and to be a part of the unveiling of my personal favorite Opening and Closing Ceremony Uniforms!!”
PHOTO CREDIT | Ralph Lauren | Team USA Closing Ceremony Looks | Ice Dancers Maia Shibutani (2B) and Alex Shibutani (2B)
In addition to the looks that are worn by the athletes, Ralph Lauren also creates a collection that allows us to purchase them to support the team as well as the Winter Games. Ralph Lauren’s 2026 Team USA is available now and can be purchased online, at select Ralph Lauren stores, select department stores, and if you will be at the Winter Games this year, you can purchase pieces at their pop-up shop at the Rosapetra Hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
PHOTO CREDIT | Ralph Lauren | Ralph Lauren Team USA Collection
