Meet The Models Of Spring 2017
In case you missed the #BTS on our Instagram story last week... we've got some new birds on set! From Volée to Haute Volée to Nesters, we love featuring people in the Oiselle community on site. Get to know Anita, Matt, and Mariel!
HOW DID YOU ORIGINALLY FIND OUT ABOUT OISELLE?
I purchased my first Oiselle shorts at Super Jock n' Jill in 2007 when O was a new brand to the store. Orange was the color and probably the most comfortable pair I have ever worn. I went back, bought another pair and donated all my old pair to Goodwill.
WHAT WAS THE MOST SURPRISING ELEMENT TO YOU OF BEING IN A PHOTOSHOOT?
The challenge of being outside my comfort zone in my skin suit. Embracing my curves, wrinkles, and imperfections for all to witness in a bra and tights. I appreciate the realism Oiselle is committed to in their photos. Running is real and beautiful. It's what we do.
WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR LIFE WHEN YOU'RE NOT MODELING?
Finding balance as a working mom, getting my enjoyment in running, cycling, and any new sport I can get my hands on to try. I enjoy the challenge of racing and the process in the preparation. Being on the move can take it's toll, taking pause through meditative and mind clearing practice is a daily ritual.
WHEN YOU GET DRESSED TO RUN OR WORK OUT, HOW DO YOU WANT TO FEEL?
I want what I am wearing to move with me and support the shape that I am. Being comfortable in style.
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE ITEM FROM THE PHOTOSHOOT?
Hard to decide on one item because my dream wardrobe would be everything Oiselle. The new Denim Lori Shorts are a must have and personally, I can't get enough of the Flyte Tanks.
HOW DID YOU ORIGINALLY FIND OUT ABOUT OISELLE?
I am Amos Morgan's photographer's assistant. He regularly shoots for Oiselle. I learned about Oiselle during the recent Olympic Games in Brazil.
WHAT WAS THE MOST SURPRISING ELEMENT TO YOU OF BEING IN A PHOTOSHOOT?
How fantastic the Oiselle athletes are to photograph and work with.
WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR LIFE WHEN YOU'RE NOT MODELING?
Photographer! Recent work - cover of current issue of Edible Portland.
WHEN YOU GET DRESSED TO RUN OR WORK OUT, HOW DO YOU WANT TO FEEL?
Clothed. Ready.
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE ITEM FROM THE PHOTOSHOOT?
Those Pocket Joggers looked cozy as a couch. I'd rock those for men. :)
MARIEL
HOW DID YOU ORIGINALLY FIND OUT ABOUT OISELLE?
In 2010 I met Sally when she first sat in my styling chair at Headlines Salon in the University Village. Always on the go, she told she wanted a fun style that could go from wet to dry and run to office without having to primp too much. I remember one of those early visits, she excitedly brought in a copy of Seattle Business Magazine that had an article about her fledgling business. I asked her about the company and she told me they wanted to make their mark in the fitness industry by being a company by women, for women that could stand up for female athletes at all stages of their careers. They had named it Oiselle, French for bird, because it represented their philosophy that as women we should be unbound and free. Since then I have had the joy of watching from the wings as this philosophy and brand has grown and truly taken flight.
WHAT WAS THE MOST SURPRISING ELEMENT TO YOU OF BEING IN A PHOTOSHOOT?
I was most surprised about the idea that I was at a photoshoot for a fitness brand and being photographed in clothes that show areas of my body that historically I have gone to great lengths to tone and cover up. I was surprised that instead of leaving the shoot feeling uneasy, I left feeling empowered. The director (Megan) and photographer (Amos) gave me positive feedback and I would catch a glance or two of some of my photos as they came through on the screen. Instead of thinking that the girl in the picture looked she should go put more clothes on, I thought that she looked strong, or that she was curvy in a good way. I was the 'big' girl in high school and now having lost more than 100 pounds it can be hard to change your frame of mind from thinking that there is a magical destination weight where my body will be 'perfect', to knowing it is more of journey and that 'perfect' is subjective.
WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR LIFE WHEN YOU'RE NOT MODELING?
In life I work as a hairstylist going on 11 years behind the chair. Also I have recently gotten into residential real estate.
WHEN YOU GET DRESSED TO RUN OR WORK OUT, HOW DO YOU WANT TO FEEL?
When I workout I like to dress in a way that highlights my assets and holds things where they need to be but also leaves me free to move!
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE ITEM FROM THE PHOTOSHOOT?
I loved all the pieces, and I love the plum sticks color of the Gifted Verrazano, but I think my favorite item was the Pocket Jogger. Loved the higher waistband fit and I love how all the pockets let me take all the things I need while remaining sleek!
MORE STORIES
Core Routine For Runners: The Dozen
I was introduced to the "The Dozen" in the winter of 2012 by my favorite Oregon running family. I love this set of core exercises for its efficient targeting of core muscle groups, and because no gym equipment is required! You can do this on a grass field, in your hotel room, or really anywhere you can lay on a flat surface.
Reflecting on the Year of the Underbird
This past August, we launched our Year of the Underbird program: an open application for aspiring Olympic Trials marathoners, with a promise to select 5 women for a 6 month contract encompassing a stipend, gear, storytelling, and community support. As we reach the end of our flight with our selected athletes, we invited each of them to share a few reflections on their past 6 months as teammates.
Black History Month: Celebrating Our Athletes
We are honored to support five exceptional Black women athletes challenging norms in the running industry: athletes, advocates, and powerful voices in the sport. We invited each of them to reflect on their journeys through sport: how their identity has affected their development, and how they hope to impact the rising generation of athletes. Hear from Madie Boreman, Kendra Coleman, Brenna Detra, Carmen Pelar Graves, and Ari Hendrix-Roach.