Nigel TAYLOR
May 19, 2021
When Halle met Betty. Commercial sparks are surely set to fly for UK-based gym-to-street brand
Sweaty Betty and Hollywood actress Halle Berry.
Combining with Berry’s wellness brand Re-Spin, they've collaborated to launch a limited edition 22-piece technical sportswear-to-lifestyle collection.
Designed by Berry and her stylist Lindsay Flores, the HB x SB range includes workout leggings, bike shorts, sports bras, sweatshirts, hoodies and loungewear, all inspired by boxing and jiu-jitsu.
Featuring a “timeless tonal colour palette” of deep blacks, shaded greys and soft creams, there are also a number of lifestyle ‘studio-to-street’ pieces such as an oversized lightweight parka, a split-back T-shirt, a super crop hoody and a scrappy back dress.
Described as being “reflective” of Berry’s personal style, it aims to offer a “flattering fit while retaining its fashion appeal”.
The collection has just launched on Sweatybetty.com and through select retail partners worldwide. Prices range from £75-£225 in sizes XXS to XXL. A second drop is expected in October.
Berry said she was drawn to Sweaty Betty through what she calls a “natural synergy in their ethos” to empower women through fitness, which aligns with Re-Spin’s commitment to inspiring people through physical and mental wellbeing. She said "they know how to make technical activewear that not only looks great, but also truly performs”.
And she added that she's “worn the Power Legging for years, so it was an amazing experience to design my own version, named after one of my most iconic roles: Storm. I worked closely with Sweaty Betty’s design team, entirely over Zoom”.
Sweaty Betty chief executive, Julia Straus, added: “Halle Berry is an inspiration. She embodies the Sweaty Betty woman and the values our brand stands for. As a long-time customer Halle has always put our product through its paces. This collection is a great example of what makes Sweaty Betty unique -- a seamless combination of technical performance and feminine expressive style. It also reflects Halle’s experiences and personal taste.”
No doubt will an eye on a wider international market, the high profile collaboration will do Sweaty Betty’s ambitions, especially in the US, no harm.
The brand has over 50 boutiques in the UK, accounting for around 80% of its turnover, and six boutiques (representing 18% of turnover) and a growing online presence.