New business offers 'Athleisure' wear in Destin

Do you like to exercise and live in comfy clothes yet like to think of yourself as fashion guru?

If so, you will definitely find something to love in Destin’s new business LexyLeah Athletic Apparel.

“It’s mostly for active wear,” said business owner Leslie Maraist. “But it’s a cross between active wear and resort wear called athleisure.

“Basically, it’s the same concept as keeping your workout clothes on all day with the same leggings and camisole but maybe throwing on a cute shirt overtop and a pair of boots; it’s all about transitioning,” she added.

The new store boasts designer lines of yoga-inspired clothes such as leggings, tops and special grip socks. Also offered is a small men’s collection of shirts and shorts and a growing selection of children’s dance wear and dance shoes.

“Most of what we carry is yoga-inspired clothes because they tend to be more comfortable and breathable,” said Maraist. “Here in the store I carry nothing polyester because it isn’t breathable.”

Maraist explained that all of the clothing lines in the store are from ethical companies, as she believes sustainable and slave-free clothing is the way forward.

Some of the brands represented at Lexy-Leah are Tasc, which uses bamboo-based materials and organic cotton to produce their clothing. Another brand is Threads for Thought, which uses only recycled materials such as plastic bottles to create their clothing.

“One thing that we try to focus on in the store is American-made brands or eco-friendly companies that use recycled materials and if they are companies from over-seas, we make sure they use no sweat shops,” Maraist said.

And of course what store wouldn’t be complete without accessories? From water bottles and tote bags to yoga mats and towels, LexyLeah has it all.

“We have all the good stuff people need when they work out,” said Maraist.

Another feature of LexyLeah is the boutique shopping atmosphere. Although small, the shop offers a kids play area, three dressing rooms and a spacious area in the back to test clothes.

“It’s personalized shopping,” said Maraist. “We help our customers shop and find just what they are looking for. We have a lot of equipment here so they can try things out and just be comfortable and hang out.”

Maraist has lived in Destin for 14 years with her husband, son and two daughters. She said her family inspired her to open the store and even her brand name comes from combining the names of her two daughters, Lexy and Leah.

“I’ve always wanted to have a boutique and this is something we don’t have here in Destin,” Maraist said. “In fact, I think this is the only store like this on the Gulf Coast.”

LexyLeah Athletic Apparel is located at 4495 Commons Drive West in the Paradise shopping center near Fresh Market. For more information visit www.lexyleah.com or call 502-9423.

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