For the next installment of Black Friday purchase reviews: Alala!
Captain crop tights in pewter
Ok technically, these weren’t a Black Friday purchase, I’m just a bit late in getting this review up. I paid full price for these bad boys before the sales (scroll to the bottom, though, and you lucky ducks can get these for WAY less than full price!). They’re part of Alala’s special edition holiday theme featuring metallic shine. They also come in full length, but I opted for crops since I can wear them year round.
These crops are comment (compliment?) magnets. You can’t not make a statement in these. I wore these to the gym one day and even though only about 15 or 20 people were there, at least 5 of them said something about my pants. Granted, I’ve become kinda notorious at my gym for wearing the craziest, most unusual activewear, but even so, this was way more comments than usual. I love the costume-y aspect of these crops, since they’re nothing like anything else in my workout wardrobe.
The pewter fabric is black on the inside, but coated with silver on the outside. The metallic finish makes these crops thicker than Alala’s usual fabric. That means they are absolutely opaque, which of course is a big plus. That said, I’m not sure if this will affect how the fabric breathes. I did work out in these and was totally comfortable, but it’s winter (temps overnight have been in the single digits this week, guys) which means it’s brutally cold in my gym. I don’t really work up a sweat even during high-intensity workouts. So, I can’t really speak to the fabric’s performance in really intense conditions at this point.
The finish does have quite a different feel to the touch, though. It’s rubbery and almost “sticky”, as opposed to silky like their usual captain crop fabric. If you’ve encountered metallic lamé fabric in other contexts, it’s basically like that. The mesh at the back of the knees also has some metallic (really fine glitter?) in it, though it does transfer a bit and may eventually wear off.
The fit on these is basically like other captain crops, maybe *slightly* slimmer through the legs (and I mean slightly). I would call them true to size. Like other captains, the rise is medium and stays in place very well, even though they don’t have a drawstring. There is a zip pocket in the back as well as some subtle reflective detail at the waist.
In these closeups, you can see that if you stretch the fabric quite a lot, you’ll start to see breaks in the silver. Also, the silver isn’t perfectly uniform. There are areas with “veins” or spots that look slightly irregular. Some readers who also bought these crops expressed concern over these potential issues, which I definitely understand. In my experience, though, I thought those quirks weren’t all that noticeable and I didn’t mind them too much. Note also that these will wrinkle if you leave them unfolded in a heap for a few days like I did, BUT those wrinkles disappear when you put them on.
Do keep in mind that these pants are labeled as hand wash only. I’m guessing rough machine washing would eventually wear off the lamé and thus shorten their life. You can either literally hand wash them in the sink, but I realize that’s kind of a crazy suggestion for many people. If you have a washing machine you trust and you like to live life on the edge, you could try putting these in a mesh laundry bag or tied-off pillowcase and putting them on the most delicate of delicate cycles. (And of course, use cold water, and I would never suggest you put these in the dryer.)
Overall, there is some uncertainty about how this unique fabric finish will hold up over time. I know I’m taking a little bit of a risk with the longevity here. But, I really love the unique look. That ultimately wins out, so I’m keeping these!
Btw, I also got the blocked crop tights in pewter! These arrived later, so a review of those will be coming later on. I’m keeping both though, because I’m hopeless. The blocked crops a good alternative for those who like the metallic look, but want something more subtle.
The pewter captain crops are available via Revolve, Bloomingdale’s (on sale!), Bandier, and Alala’s site (15% off: AA15). The full length version of these is also available via Carbon38, Neiman Marcus, and Alala’s site.
In a snap bra
The in a snap bra is normally priced at $80, but I got it for about $45 via Revolve (it is no longer in stock there) over Black Friday. Score!!
The #1 thing I love about this bra: it is SO comfortable. No pinching anywhere!
Here’s the rundown with sizing: I have a very small band (measures 27″) and this exposed elastic band fits comfortably, though not as firm as the zip it up bra or another covered elastic option (like lululemon’s bras). In my opinion, the XS I got should accommodate someone with a band measurement several inches larger than mine, it will just be tighter, of course. I am a small D and it covers enough for me. I think this bra is ideally made for a B-C cup, or perhaps some Ds if you are small like me, or if you size up.
Overall, this runs a little bit bigger than the zip it up bra (review here), but not by a full size, so I’d rate it as overall pretty true to size. This means it’s slightly less supportive for me, but still good enough that I can comfortably crossfit in it.
The nice thing is that this bra is higher coverage without looking dumpy. My go-to sports bra is lululemon’s energy bra, but I do get a tad bit of “muffin” from it. Sometimes I feel self-conscious about this, but I’ve yet to find something that works as well for me so I wear them anyway. This bra covers about as much as the energy bra does in terms of the solid part of the fabric, maybe slightly less, but the additional mesh helps to add a little bit of coverage without it being stifling and/or ugly. This bra is somehow both really spicy and also pretty modest.
I noticed the armholes are cut slightly larger on this bra. It may be hard for you to tell, but it definitely has a bit more room, I would say about 1/4″, in the cut from armpit to collar bone. If you find sports bras creep up into your armpit, this will be a good thing. On the other hand, if you struggle with side spillage, this might not be cut wide enough for you.
I found it easiest to pull it on with the snap still fastened, but then unsnap it before taking it off. By having the snap already done when I put it on, I don’t have to fumble with trying to reach the two sides behind my back. Unsnapping it really does make it easier to get it off, though. It’s a very firm snap, too, so I really doubt it would ever come undone while you’re working out.
One of my concerns with this bra is that I would only be able to wear it with high-neck tops. I tried it on under a lulu cool racerback, and I was surprised that I actually didn’t mind the look at all. The cool racerback comes up just a hair higher than the solid portion of the snap bra, so you’re left with a clean line of mesh. This is mostly how I’ve been wearing it, though I will note that the black mesh looks best paired with darker colors rather than the lighter one I’m wearing here.
My one grievance with this bra is that there aren’t any slots for cups. This hasn’t really been an issue yet, especially since my tops are thicker in the winter, and of course I can always just slip cups in without slots. Still, I always like to at least have the option to use them, especially when I’m buying at a higher price point. Hopefully Alala will add these if they bring this bra back in future seasons.
Overall, I love this bra, especially at the killer price I paid. I would buy another one if there was a color that struck my fancy, though I think the clean look of all black is the best so far.
The snap bra is currently stocked on Alala’s website in 3 colors (15% off: AA15) and in black on Carbon38.
Alala sale at Bloomingdale’s
Bonus!!! Bloomingdale’s entire stock of Alala, including the pewter/metallic collection, is 30% off right now! These prices are good through Jan 1. Then, on top of those already great prices, you can get an additional 15% off marked prices through the 24th. The cherry on top is you’ll get free shipping and free returns, too, so it’s a pretty low-risk shopping situation. Too bad I already bought my pewter goodies, because these are seriously some of the best prices I’ve seen! They don’t have Alala’s full collection, but if there’s anything here that you want to try, I definitely recommend taking advantage of these deals! A few pieces are below, or you can shop all Alala at Bloomingdale’s here.
I adore that snap bra. I got it on revolve during BF too and I love love love it. I’m an A cup and I still found it great even without cups slots (for anyone wondering).
Thanks so much for the detailed review of the crops too… it’s so nice to see the up close pics.
Thanks for the input! I was curious whether it would work for smaller cup sizes too, so that’s good to know!
These look awesome on you! The metallic fabric really shows off your muscle tone. I hope they hold up. Don’t blame you a bit for keeping the second panelled pair.
Thanks!! :) I hope they hold up too. They’ll be hard to let go of if they don’t!!
I love the pewter crops soooo much, but unfortunately they’re not for me. They look awesome on you! I’ll definitely look for that bra if I can find a good sale. I just ordered the Alala mesh longsleeve tee that’s on sale at revolve. Along with more Michi stuff. :) I need to be done shopping….unless there are good after-Christmas sales of course! I’m thinking spending ban January through March, but I’ll start with January & see how that goes!
I also got the alala long sleeve mesh top. I love it. Very flattering, and goes great with my pewter captain crops and clutch tank! They are so unique and I get so many comments on them even though I don’t wear them as well as AA. Workin on it though! :)
I am tempted by it. How does it fit? Is it tts? It also looks a little long. I am only 5’2″.
The mesh top, clutch tank, and pewter crops are all TTS for me. I will say the pewter crops are about half an inch shorter than my other captain crops. I compared them cuz I noticed a difference in wearing them, but the difference doesn’t bother me. It just means more exposure in cold weather is all. Maybe the length would be better for you. Note the mesh top is on the longer side if you have a short torso. I am 5’7″ and it comes down to lower hip length. I find it very flattering.
I loved the mesh top too (got it during BF) but I ended up returning it cause I could not figure out where I would wear it. Guest – please give me ideas! I’m dying to buy it again (haha) because it was so dang cute :)
Amhertlulu: I too found it *very* TTS. I was worried about the sleeves being too tight (cause sometimes alala has slimmer sleeves) and I thought that would be particularly uncomfy in mesh fabric. BUT when it arrived it fit wonderfully and my size up (which I also ordered) was way too big and looked dumb. Definitely go with normal size – it’s body skimming but not tight at all. Like Guest said, it is super flattering with a longer slim fit but also very comfortable.
Haha– I wear it as a top layer for the gym and remove when I warm up. Also layer it when done. I think it looks great with skinnies and heels or black wide leg slacks and stilettos for holiday parties too! Black long line bra under works best I think. Rethink buying it! :)
Thanks for the tips on how to wear it! I hope it fits me right. I broke down & ordered the pewter bra from blooms, which based on what you said should look great under the mesh top.
Thanks, ladies! I will get the mesh LS top in my tts XS then.
I also ordered the pewter bra in size S, which I prefer to be more comfy. I had to pay full price from Revolve since it was sold out pretty much everywhere.
Great, now I want the mesh top too. Here I thought I was done with Alala purchases for a while…
I think I remember you saying a few months ago that Alala wasn’t really your thing. It seems the floodgates have opened!! :) You are braver than I to do a multi-month spending ban. I don’t think I could hack it. :P
I think you did right thing getting the crops. I ordered the pants and it was just a liiiiiiitle too much pewter going on. I looked like a robot my husband said so I returned it. I sometimes feel like a robot going to the gym early so no need for me to look like one.
That’s so funny, my boyfriend called my crops “robot pants” too!!
Oh boy- just ordered the block crop from Bloomies! Stop looking so cute in stuff! I’m supposed to be shopping for others! Ha ha!!
Excited to get my first Alala purchase!!
Merry Christmas!
Just got these same ones from bloomies. I love them! I’m a 2/4 in lululemon bottoms. I’ve tried on alala captain crops before but found them a little big with no compression. The block crops though have great compression and completely opaque! Just the right amount of pewter. Love!
Agree, as a lulu 2, I find the blocked crops fit me better than the captains. That said, These pewter ones fit a tad more firmly, probably because of the difference in fabric.
Nice!! :) I hope you love them.
You rock those crops! Almost tempted but trying to be good.
Any idea what brand this bag is? I can’t quite decipher the patch/logo
https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xla1/v/t1.0-9/12346362_10153421630135805_8254693255446490046_n.jpg?oh=cdc59e38c4672280fdc5c5a8dd7e0415&oe=56DF97AD
Good question. At first I thought it looked like a King Kong bag: https://kingkongapparel.com/shop/king-kong-gym-bag/ but that’s definitely not right. I’ll rack my brain a bit more and come back if I can manage to find it…
Hi AA! I got a Carbon38 order today and wanted to share fit details in case anyone is interested.
To start, I am a Lulu size 4 in tights and a size 2 in street clothes, 25 in jeans. 25″ waist, 35.5″ hip, and I’m 5’3″.
So- I ordered the Michi Stardust capris and the Carbon38 Sprint Compression Crop.
Michi Stardust- I ordered an XS, and although I LOVE them, they are too big in the booty. This was very surprising to me, because I am a crossfitter and I definitely have some glutes. I am small, but definitely not lacking a backside. The high waist came up to my belly button, but it was super comfortable and no digging in. I found the waist and legs to be super flattering, but the fabric bunched in the crotch and under my butt, and so there was no compression. Those unfortunately are going back. They really need to make an XXS…I kept hearing that Michi runs large, and it definitely does. I am NEVER an XXS, and I would need that size. They went a teensy big sheer in a deep squat, but not bad at all. I’d wear them on squat day without too much worry.
Carbon38 crop- love these. I ordered an XS, and they fit a little big, but not too much.
There’s not a ton of compression, a lot like the Fullux from Lulu. It could be because they’re a little roomy, though. The waist on me comes to just under my belly button, and no digging in/muffin top.
They’re 100% opaque in a deep bend, and the fabric is kind of like Luxtreme but a little more cottony. It’s still light though, so I really, really like them. There is a drawstring waist, flat lock seams, gusset.
These are keepers for sure. I am not sure if a Lulu 2 would fit these, as I’m a 4 and they’re not terribly compressive.
So- I’ll wash and wear through a WOD and report back! ;)
Too bad about Michi, though….I would love them if they fit. Has anyone tried lots of Michi? Any of the legging styles run smaller than the Stardust?
oh! Also meant to note (this is important to me, so I imagine that it is for some of you guys, too) both styles had good coverage, meaning you can’t see bum dimples ;)
I’m also size 4 in lulu and I own several Michi bottoms size xs. Hydra crops, stardust and another ones, can’t remember the name. They all have less compression than lulu pants. I love the fabric though.
I wear lulu size 6 tights & have large thighs & hips. I got a small in michi hydra crops & vyper crops, and the fit is perfect for me. They’re also very compressive on me–as compressive as lulu’s run tights in luxtreme. Maybe they just fit bigger thighs/hips better?
Thanks for the reviews!!! It makes me nervous that your C38 stuff seems to run a little bigger. I really want to be able to wear their stuff. Same with Michi–lots of people around here seem to be in agreement that it runs a little bit, so hopefully they’ll eventually get on board with the XXS thing. Odd that your stardusts were so big on you. I’m about 34-35″ in the hips and not lacking in glutes either (for my size), but the stardusts didn’t bunch or sag on me. Batch variation? Hm.
Oooh you are giving me hope about Michi. Maybe I just got a wonky pair. I will try again. :D
Regarding the C38- definitely worth a try, but I do think that they will probably be too big for you. I think they are cut more generously through the hip than I am used to. (However, they Erie 100% opaque in the deep squat test, so maybe that’s the trade off?)