I was first introduced to Danskin as a child; I wore its dancewear faithfully during my brief stints in ballet. My impression of the brand was then frozen in time, until I found Danskin again a few years ago, shortly after Walmart announced its decision to end a long-running licensing deal with the company. But I have been surprised by how much I like Danskin pieces, from the super soft leggings to the sturdy and sleek hosiery.
Like many legacy brands that haven’t found a wider audience despite their long history, Danskin was a victim of the 1980s LBO wave (and subsequent mismanagement). It’s undergone countless changes in ownership and leadership, and is now owned by Iconix Brand Group–a brand management company. It remains a mystery to me which entities currently manufacture for the Danskin brand, though a 2023 lawsuit and related WWD article reveals that Danskin’s apparel and footwear licenses are separate. With licensing deals, however, the quality of the products can vary over time (and sometimes disastrously), so when I find a Danskin style that I like (like the High Waist Zip Pocket Legging), I break my “no multiples” rule.
Some recent Danskin purchases that were keepers: the Cropped Melange Active Jacket in Atmosphere Heather and the Pacesetter Leggings in Atmosphere. The Cropped Melange Active Jacket has a chic mock neckline and invisible zippered pockets, which makes me want to order another in a bold(er) color. And the Pacesetter 7/8 Leggings are the perfect length on 5’2 me and is extremely soft and comfortable to wear.
In sale news, Nordstrom’s summer sale has kicked into high gear, with hundreds of styles now up to 60% off and select sale styles an extra 25% off. The BP. Butter Rib Square Neck Bodysuit that I’ve featured before is now 50% off online in all colorways (sizes limited online).
My sale picks:
Even more sale picks:
Happy shopping!
