When I got the opportunity to interview U.S. figure skater and Olympic gold medalist Kristi Yamaguchi I was ecstatic. While I’m not a sports fan, there are two events at the Olympics that I’ve watched since I was a little girl: figure skating and gymnastics. So naturally I was a huge Kristi fan and elated to hear that she was venturing into fashion with a new line called Tsu.ya.
The line has been a few years in the making and was inspired by Kristi being an athlete and a mother and wanting something, “fashionable and functional at the same time,” she said. Like most of us Kristi was looking for something that could take her from a long run to driving the kids to school while still looking chic. Plus, a portion of her sales goes to Early Childhood Literacy Efforts. Ultimately, creating something of quality that also gives back to the community.
Since wrapping up her life as professional skater, Kristi has welcomed two daughters who are now in lower school giving her more time to concentrate on this fun project and savvy business. For her first collection, which launched in early September, Kristi has introduced 18 key pieces that range from burn out tees, to yoga pants and capris with matching jackets in high performance fabrics that have four-way stretch and moisture wicking (so you know, you’re not sticky and gross after you workout). In addition to the workout pieces, Kristi has also incorporated stylish separates to throw on over your workout gear in case you don’t have time to change before heading to your next appointment.
I don’t know about you, but I’m excited to check out Kristi’s new line Tsu.ya, which has a relatively friendly price-point from $40-$160 and is available online, here and at Lord & Taylor stores.
