L*Space Expanding Into Apparel

L*Space, the Irvine, Calif.–based line of contemporary swimwear, has been inching its way into the apparel category for some time. Designed by Monica Wise, L*Space has always offered light coverups that toed the line between beachwear and everyday garments, said Debby Martin, L*Space’s national sales manager.

Set to debut at the Swim Show in Miami Beach, Fla., July 17–20, L*Space’s latest collection of coverups is not only larger but expands its focus beyond the pool or beach. “It is a night-and-day difference from what we’ve done before. These are more fashionable and have different fabrications, better trims, better buttons,” Martin said. “Before our coverups, it was a small injection. Now it is an entire category.”

The collection includes a selection of tunics in a variety of fabrications, skirted rompers, linen-blend pants, strapless cotton dresses, ruffled mini-dresses, crochet dresses, short jumpers and pant jumpers. Wholesale prices range from $37 for a French terry skirt romper to $63 for a crochet mini-dress. Cut from solid fabrics, the coverups and apparel use the same color scheme to related to the swimwear.

The coverup segment has been strong for L*Space. “We’ve been growing and gaining momentum in the resort, spa and boutique markets,” Martin said, adding that demand for well-made fashion basics appeared to be growing. Expanding its coverup category would also allow retailers to better merchandise L*Space on their sales floors. “We’re ready,” Martin said. “This has been a natural and gradual progression for us, and we expect to continue to expand our apparel category.”—Erin Barajas