NUX
Launched in Spring 2008 by Malek Neman, NUX gets brainy about making clothes for the brawny.
Every garment in NUX’s line of activewear for women is designed on a computer. “It’s the difference between making a garment and engineering a garment. We engineer our garments around seamless manufacturing,” Neman said. The Los Angeles–based line goes as far as to replace itchy tags with screen-printed versions directly on the fabric. The computer-assisted designs make for a comfortable fit, technical performance and an aesthetically pleasing design that is perfect for working out, practicing yoga or Pilates, or loungewear, he said.
Made of microfiber nylon and Lycra or spandex, NUX’s line is packed with sleek, functional pieces. Camisoles, bootleg yoga pants, sleeveless hoodies, cropped leggings, bike shorts and racer-back tanks are cut from moisture-wicking fabrics in dark colors with minimal embellishment. Each season, staple items are revamped with new colorways and treatments. The latest addition is a fabric that allows for a heathered look.
For Fall 2009, NUX is using Aquarius, a new yarn from Israeli chemical company Nilit. The yarn, which offers a new moisture-wicking technology, is not chemically treated and will withstand many washings, unlike some yarns that lose their efficacy over time. “We are always looking for new fabrics and yarns that will allow us to improve our product,” Neman said. The company is waiting to test a new yarn made of recycled nylon. “If it works, we would love to be able to offer a ’green’ option,” he said.
Wholesale prices for the collection range from $16 to $24 per piece. Currently, specialty stores, yoga and exercise studios, and catalogs carry NUX.—Erin Barajas
