NINI, a luxury activewear brand founded by mother-daughter duo Kristine and Addison, is revolutionizing women’s athletic apparel by seamlessly blending style, functionality, and sun protection. With the tagline “From the court to cocktails,” NINI’s versatile designs transition effortlessly from sports settings to social engagements, catering to the modern, active woman.
Entering the home of Kristine and Addison Thompson, I was greeted by both, dressed in NINI, along with the brands mascot, Cash, the cutest Samoyed white ball of fluff, who also sports his own Instagram account, I might add. Kristine brought me back to their private office, painted a robins egg shell blue, with a clothing rack lined with the looks from the first collection of NiNi, and their mood board of line sheets, hanging above. It was cozy, sophisticated, and most definitely a perfect place to build a brand.
The inception of NINI was deeply personal for Kristine and Addison, both passionate about outdoor activities under the Phoenix sun. They identified a significant gap in the market for apparel that offered both sun protection and elegance. “We saw a gap in the market,” shares co-founder Kristine. “There are sun-protective options and stylish ones, but rarely both. We wanted to create pieces that empower women to safeguard their skin without compromising on elegance.”
Kristine proceeded to share that it was while on vacation that she began to research brands that offered sun protection, while also aligning with her personal taste so that she could join her friends out on the court without exposing her skin, and compromising her health. To her disbelief, there were none that really married protection and style the way a modern woman would appreciate. She needed stylish UPF clothing: Ultraviolet Protective Factor, which is designed to block the harmful UV rays and offers more protection than regular fabrics.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF UPF CLOTHING:
- Reduced Risk of Skin Cancer: Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, and extended UV exposure is a major risk factor. UPF clothing minimizes UV penetration, helping to prevent this serious condition.
- Prevention of Premature Aging: Prolonged sun exposure can lead to wrinkles, discoloration, and loss of skin elasticity. By blocking UV rays, UPF fabrics used to make UPF clothing help maintain youthful skin.
- Avoiding Skin Irritations: Regular fabric can trap heat and moisture, leading to skin irritation, especially in high-sweat areas. UPF fabrics are typically designed to be breathable, reducing the risk of skin irritations, which are perfect to create UPF clothing.
And adventure and initiative her daughter Addison could appreciate, as caring for our skin is something that should be adapted at early age to avoid a lifetime of unwanted skin problems in the future. It was then the NINI was born, and the “AH-HA” moment sunk in. With no experience in fashion design, the two dove head first into conventions, fabric trade-shows, and anything they could learn the in’s and out’s from as they established the brand foundation.
Reinvent The Game, Redefine Your Style
Fast forward to one year later, NINI’s first collection went live. The brands collections are characterized by sleek lines, premium fabrics, and thoughtful details that cater to both athletic performance and aesthetic appeal. The brand’s design team emphasizes versatility, ensuring each piece offers comfort and style. Among NINI’s standout offerings is the “Long Sleeve Activewear Dress UPF 50+,” a tennis-inspired garment featuring moisture-wicking fabric and an elegant silhouette suitable for post-game gatherings. Another popular item is the “Lightweight Cropped Jacket UPF 30+,” designed with stretchable material to provide ease of movement during play and a polished look for evening events.
NINI’s commitment to innovation is evident in its approach to fabric technology. The brand utilizes UPF-rated materials to provide superior sun protection, addressing the growing awareness of UV exposure risks. “Our fabrics are not only designed for performance but also to shield our customers from harmful UV rays,” explains Addison. This focus on health-conscious design sets NINI apart in the activewear market.
The brand’s attention to detail extends to the functionality of its apparel. Features such as strategically placed pockets, breathable materials, and adjustable elements are thoughtfully incorporated to enhance the wearer’s experience. “We consider how each piece can serve multiple purposes throughout the day,” says Kristine. This practical yet stylish approach appeals to women seeking convenience without sacrificing elegance.
A timeline develops from the the wear of NINI. The idea of indulging in your favorite outdoor activity such as tennis, pickleball, or golf, then feeling chic enough to walk straight into the nearest happy hour opportunity, brings versatility to the forefront of design. The duo let me try on a few of the pieces from the collection. One of which was my favorite, the romper. Proportionately, made perfectly to a T, with snap buttons on the way up to a tailored collar, breathable-lightweight fabric, and even added pockets – we love pockets- this look was one I was immediately adding to my cart! [All I needed next was my cocktail, because this interview was at 4pm – it was like Kristine read my mind.]
NINI’s emphasis on inclusivity is reflected in its diverse size range and adaptable designs. The brand strives to cater to a wide audience, ensuring that women of various body types can enjoy its offerings. “Inclusivity is at the heart of our design process; we want every woman to feel confident and beautiful in NINI,” Addison emphasizes. And their customer feedback plays a pivotal role in NINI’s development process. The brand actively seeks input from its community to refine and enhance its products.
“Our customers’ insights are invaluable; they help us create pieces that truly meet their needs,” notes Kristine. “This collaborative approach helps us foster a loyal and engaged customer base.”
In addition to apparel, NINI is exploring the expansion of its accessory line to complement its clothing range. Items such as sun-protective hats, versatile bags, and stylish visors are in development to offer customers a comprehensive selection of coordinated accessories. “We aim to provide a complete ensemble that embodies our brand’s ethos,” shares Addison.
NINI’s dedication to excellence is evident in its meticulous craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to quality. Each piece undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets the brand’s high standards. “Quality is non-negotiable for us; our customers deserve the best,” asserts Kristine. NINI is dedicated to sustainable fashion practices, sourcing eco-friendly materials and maintaining ethical production standards. The brand’s commitment to environmental responsibility resonates with consumers seeking both style and sustainability.
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The NINI Advantage
Looking ahead, NINI plans to expand its product range and explore international markets. The brand is also exploring partnerships with athletes and fashion influencers to further its reach. “Our goal is to become a global leader in versatile fashion, empowering women to transition seamlessly through various aspects of their day,” shares Kristine.In a market where the lines between activewear and high fashion are increasingly blurred, NINI stands out by offering thoughtfully designed, versatile pieces that embody the spirit of modern, dynamic women.
As NINI continues to grow, it remains steadfast in its mission to empower women through fashion that seamlessly integrates style, functionality, and health consciousness. The brand’s innovative approach positions it as a leader in the luxury activewear market, poised to make a lasting impact on the industry.
For the latest updates and exclusive insights into NINI’s journey, follow the brand on Instagram @NINIDesignsco and shop the latest collections. Engage with a community that values elegance, versatility, and well-being, and be inspired to embrace a lifestyle that effortlessly transitions “From the court to cocktails.”
Images Provided by NINI Design/ Christie Knight