Two words not commonly associated with performance wear are "style" and "sophistication." The family of controversial Lululemon founder Chip Wilson is on a mission to change that.
Kit and Ace was created by Shannon and JJ Wilson, wife and son of Chip, in an effort to bring consumers the luxury performance wear they couldn't find on the market. The Canadian-based company has just opened a boutique on Henderson Avenue, nestled between High Fives and Houndstooth Coffee, offering clothing that looks good at home, in the boardroom or at the bar.
The clothes are created using a term trademarked by the company: Technical Luxury. Simply put, this means reduced maintenance. For example, the cashmere is washing-machine friendly, tees are tailored with added elastane, and the hidden pockets in the pants make storing your phone or wallet discreet and easy.
So who are Kit and Ace? They are fictional characters, but they have traits similar to the type of people for which the company designs. These consumers tend to come from the creative class (think artists and architects) and are driven by the impact they have on the world around them.
"They lead full-contact lives and need clothing that keeps up," JJ says. "In reality, we believe that our product can be admired and appreciated by anyone in search of effortless, versatile luxury."
One of our favorites is the cashmere Calvert Tee, with its flattering draped crossover that was made with movement in mind. Guys are sure to appreciate the Nelson Chino Short that has an elastic waistband for ease of movement and ventilation eyelets for breathability.
Cashmere that survives the washing machine and chinos with an elastic waistband that don't look like fat pants? Sold.
The Knox-Henderson shop sells select items from the Kit and Ace collection, including tanks, T-shirts, lifestyle accessories and women's dresses. Prices range from $58-$168. Dallas is the brand's first Texas location, but two more shops are planned for Houston and Austin.
"Time is precious," JJ says. "We take pride in making sure every aspect of our brand, from the shopping experience online and offline, to the way in which you wash your Kit and Ace pieces at home, saves you time."
Leading busy lives isn't an excuse for sub-par fashion, according to the brand's founders.
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