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Chill Out in Denim & Co.® Active

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Hey there—it’s Ashley, QVC Copy Editor, with details on a new Denim & Co. collection I think you’ll be interested in!

It seems like just yesterday I was writing to give you the lowdown on the popular Denim & Co.® “How” bottoms. When I interviewed Program Host Carolyn Gracie and Designer Gary Goben in March about the flattering, fashionable pants, they mentioned something else they were super excited about: Denim & Co. Active! I wanted to make sure I gave you the full scoop on the athleisure looks, as well—and what better time to dish it out than fall, when comfort is key to just about every autumn activity.

This time I had the pleasure of speaking with Gary and Program Host Albany Irvin, who told me how excited she was to help design a line of more fitted activewear. “We really didn’t have anything else like it at QVC,” Albany told me, “so I leaped at the opportunity to help in the planning stages.” In the design phase, the team envisioned the collection appealing to a variety of women, particularly those who lead an active lifestyle and need the wardrobe to go along with it. “Whether you’re exercising, walking the dog, or shopping, there is something for everyone who wants a sleek, fashionable look,” Gary shared.

I think all women can agree: comfort and style is the combo we want with all of our outfits. As Albany explained, “The Active line gives us girls a go-to spot in our closets for sophisticated, current, and quality athleisure pieces. When I get home from work, I exchange my ‘dress’ clothes for my ‘play’ clothes, but I still want to look pulled together and fashionable.”

Albany is wearing the Cowl-Neck Long-Sleeve Knit Hoodie (A257349) in Antique Rose.

So what makes these Active pieces different, besides their fitted design? “This collection offers a lot of new details and print ideas that we are very excited about,” Gary said. “These styles have a more modern feel while still being true to the Denim & Co. brand. We also created several pieces that coordinate, but of course you can also pair them with items already in your wardrobe.” Speaking of prints, I was so excited to see lots of leopard in this line! It turns out Albany shares my animal instincts: “I think animal prints have become a classic in our wardrobe. They’re a bit flirty and feminine, too!” And, as Albany pointed out, these pieces are perfect for layering, which is right on trend for these cold-weather months.

Gary and Albany are holding up the best-selling Knit Pullover with Animal-Print Inset and Hood (A257256) in Charcoal Gray.

You may be wondering about sizing, since these pieces are more fitted than the Denim & Co. styles you’re used to. As always, make sure to refer to the QVC Fit & Style Guide to determine what will look best on you, but know that these tops and bottoms will hug your body a little closer. “I think you should order your true size in a bottom,” Gary advised, “but if you want something not quite as fitted for the top, then you should size up.”

But go with the size that will make you feel comfortable. “I think fit is so much about personal taste,” Albany said. “I ordered one of the tunics in two different sizes—one to wear with jeans and a larger size to pair with skinny tees and leggings.”

Albany is wearing the best-selling Knit Animal-Print Long-Sleeve Top (A257254) in Charcoal Gray.

I wondered if Albany would be joining Program Host Carolyn Grace on air during any of her Denim & Co. shows at 11am ET on Tuesdays. “I hope so—we absolutely adore each other,” she told me. “We both have a no-nonsense sensibility, but we love to laugh. We’ve done holiday shows together in the past, so I think it could happen. Maybe we should start a petition!”

Get your pens ready, Denim Divas! And happy shopping!