lululemon
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One Connecticut couple f***ed around and eventually found out after allegedly going on a Lululemon boosting spree across the country.
NBC News reports that Jadion Richards, 44, and Akwele Lawes-Richards, 45, were pinched at a Lululemon store in Woodbury, Minnesota, and charged with organized retail theft on November 4.
According to the news website, the couple boosted around $1 million in Lululemon merchandise nationwide. Before their arrest, the complaint notes that the couple visited another Lululemon location in Roseville, Minnesota, with an unidentified man, where they allegedly stole $5,000 worth of product.
The couple allegedly had an elaborate theft scheme they used when visiting the locations that ensured they could make off with the goods.
Per NBC News:
An investigator for Lululemon said the couple and the organized crime group they work for had been stealing from stores across the country since September and are responsible for nearly $1 million worth of financial loss for the company, per the complaint.
The investigator explained how the couple allegedly run their theft scheme, with Richards typically entering the store first and purchasing a couple of small items. Richards and Lawes-Richards would then remove a security sensor from another item in the store that they’d attach to the small items Richards purchased, then steal other items that they’d conceal under their clothes and jackets.
Lawes-Richards and a third person would walk out of the store ahead of Richards with the stolen items, and when the security sensor at the store would beep, Richards would offer his bag that contained the small purchased item with a sensor attached to it to staff, according to the complaint. The couple would then take the stolen items to another store to exchange them without a receipt.
Well damn.
Lululemon’s Statement on The Couple’s Arrest
In a statement, Lululemon’s vice president of asset protection, Tristen Shields, spoke on the couple’s arrest, saying that the company is committed to “creating a safe and secure environment” for shoppers and staff.
Shields continued, “This outcome continues to underscore our ongoing collaboration with law enforcement and our investments in advanced technology, team training, and investigative capabilities to combat retail crime and hold offenders accountable. We remain dedicated to continuing these efforts to address and prevent this industry-wide issue.”
After the couple’s arrest, authorities obtained a search warrant. They found large suitcases containing an estimated $50,000 worth of Lululemon products in a rented room at the J.W. Marriott in Bloomington, Minnesota.
Online records indicate the couple was booked into the Ramsey County Jail on November 14. NBC News reports that Lawes-Richards got out on $30,000 bail on Tuesday, November 19, and Richards was released Thursday, November 21, on $100,000 bail.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
Lululemon has gathered a cult following of loyal shoppers who consider it one of the best athleisure brands out there. But besides offering the coveted Everywhere Belt Bag and “buttery soft” Align Pants, the lifestyle apparel brand is now going viral for its Mini Shoulder Bag, which has reviewers obsessed with its designer-like look and “unmatched material.”
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More than 4 million videos have already been created on TikTok raving about the shoulder bag — including one standout post by TikToker @stephanie.lauer, who has garnered more than 145,000 views for her review of the purse.
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“Wow, this inside is actually really, really nice,” the TikToker says in the video. “You can actually fit so much inside.”
Keep reading to buy the viral Lululemon purse now.
Mini Shoulder Bag 4L
The Mini Shoulder Bag comes with a crescent moon-shaped body and adjustable strap that you can lengthen or shorten to your liking. Inside, find various mesh pockets and slots to store your phone, wallet, keys and other travel necessities with ease. While the Mini Shoulder Bag shows off a trendy moon-inspired shape, its most notable feature is its water-repellent material that’ll rest comfortably on your shoulder or elbow while keeping your travel essentials safe and dry. The body, lining and mesh fabrics are all designed from 100% recycled materials making it both vegan and sustainable.
Lululemon reviewers can’t get over how “stylish” and “chic” the bag looks. One shopper even said it was better than a luxury designer bag, opting for the Lululemon as their everyday pick.
“Best bag ever!” they wrote. “I was carrying the Marc Jacobs tote bag, but it faded and got dirty. I decided to get this one and I love it more! Fits everything you need, looks sleek, clean and sits perfectly on your shoulder.”
While the purse comes in three colors: white, black and green, the white shade is already sold out and the other colors aren’t too far behind. It even comes with a price tag of only $68, making it more affordable than the Taylor Swift-worn Aupen bag. Pick up the Lululemon purse here.
For more product recommendations, check out our roundups of the best tote bags, unique-shaped bags and gym bags.
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The founder of athletic wear giant Lululemon is facing renewed backlash after expressing his dislike for the company’s diversity & and equality initiatives, prompting the company to distance itself.
In an interview, Lululemon founder Chip Wilson caused more controversy when he expressed his dismay about the company’s diversity and equality initiative efforts, referring to it as a “whole diversity and inclusion thing.” The Vancouver, British Columbia native spoke to Forbes Magazine for an in-depth profile interview when he made those remarks. He began by commenting on the women-centered brand’s models in their advertisements, calling them “unhealthy,” “sickly” and “not inspirational.”
Wilson would go further, stating: “They’re trying to become like the Gap, everything to everybody. And I think the definition of a brand is that you’re not everything to everybody… You’ve got to be clear that you don’t want certain customers coming in.” The 67-year-old billionaire also belittled Lululemon’s move to include larger-sized people by having clothing that fits individuals up to size 20 in its six core styles, and considered their expansion into men’s wear “appalling.”
Wilson stepped down from the company in 2013 after remarking that the see-through effect of leggings from the athleisure brand could be blamed on “some women’s bodies.” “It’s really about the rubbing through the thighs, how much pressure is there over a period of time,” he stated. In a 2004 interview with the Canada National Post Business Magazine, he drew sharp criticism after revealing his inspiration for naming Lululemon: “I recognized that the Japanese consumer liked a name with an L in it because the letter isn’t in the Japanese language. It sounded American,” he said at the time. “So I thought if I ever have another company I am going to put three L’s in it,” before adding “It’s funny to watch them try and say it.”
According to former employees interviewed last November, that culture of discrimination still exists. A statement released by Lululemon in response to Wilson’s remarks slammed the founder, saying: “Chip Wilson does not speak for Lululemon, and his comments do not reflect our company views or beliefs. Chip has not been involved with the company since his resignation from the board in 2015 and we are a very different company today.” The spokesperson added, “We also recognize that becoming a more diverse and inclusive organization takes time and is only possible through the sustained efforts of our leaders and our people.”
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
Just like us, Beyoncé and her crew of backup dancers have to travel with a slew of carry-ons and baggage. One dancer in particular is giving fans a peek at what exactly she carries all of her essentials in — and spoiler, it’s from the popular athleisure brand Lululemon.
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Beyoncé’s Renaissance Tour is coming to a close soon, and while some of us are lucky enough to have gotten or plan to get last-minute tickets, her backup dancer Brianna Pavon has treated us to some behind-the-scenes content that won’t be shown onstage.
Pavon posted a video to her personal TikTok on Sept. 11, showing off the Lululemon Curve Duffle bag as well as the must-haves she packs inside. While the exact style she uses is no longer in stock, there is a similar one by the brand that is still available.
“This bag has seen the world literally three times,” Pavon says in the video.
Within her personal bag, she carries everything from a long phone charger, muscle massage balls, AirPods and the Laneige lip mask — and that’s just in a single front pocket. She also goes on to say that through Lululemon’s warranty, you can replace the bag or, if it’s out of stock, get a similar style for equal or lesser value, making the price tag worth the investment.
Keep reading to shop the tour-approved bag brand and a budget-friendly style below.
Lululemon
Cruiser Duffle Bag 50L
$178
The Cruiser Duffle Bag by Lululemon is similar to the style Pavon shows off in her video. Not only does it come with three exterior pockets to fill, but a large interior for storing clothing, accessories, shoes and more. Plus, it comes with high-grade thermoplastic polyurethane material for durability.
Amazon
Nike Utility Duffle Bag
$72.00 $83.00 13% OFF
If you want an option that’s under $100 but doesn’t skimp out on quality then add the Nike Utility Duffle Bag to your cart. It’s built with two zip-up exterior pockets and a spacious main pocket to store clothing for a weekend getaway or trip to the gym.
For more product recommendations, check out our roundups of the best luggage deals, laptop deals and travel deals.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
Dupes have always been around — just look at the TikTok beauty alternatives that have popped up. They typically offer the same results for a fraction of the price, helping avoid a thinner wallet. For those of us who can’t always afford the original version, alternative versions are totally acceptable to snag.
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The viral Lululemon Everywhere Bag is the perfect example as it has become one of the most enviable accessories to have in your arsenal. It’s so popular that the waist pack has sold out multiple times — and we can’t forget to mention the $38 price tag. If you’d rather save the cash but still want to enjoy the benefits of the stylish fanny pack, there are alternatives on the market that look strikingly similar.
Fanny packs have become a staple and one of our travel necessities for their compact size, yet spacious compartments. It has the ability to store phones, wallets, portable chargers, beauty products and more without adding bulk to our outfits. Whether you’re looking to ditch your purse or backpack, or just want to snag a Lululemon Everywhere Bag lookalike, we’ve found the best alternatives you need to add to your cart ASAP.
For more product recommendations, check out our roundups of best tote bags for travel, eco-friendly leggings and the best flower crowns.
Amazon
Amazon
ODODOS Unisex Mini Belt Bag
$16.98 $23.98 29% OFF
As festival season approaches, add ODODOS’ Mini Belt Bag to your must-have festival gear lineup. It boasts an adjustable strap, smooth front and zipper compartment with enough space to store your phone, wallet and a few snacks, too. Let’s not forget all the color options it comes in — 20 to be exact.
Gap
Gap
GapFit 100% Recycled Fanny Pack
$24.49 $34.99 30% off% OFF
We’re big fans of anything sustainable, and this GapFit 100% Recycled Fanny Pack boasts a material made from recycled polyester. The wraparound strap is adjustable and has a handy clip to personalize to your liking. Not only that, but the main pocket has two mini slots to store your belongings, so you can keep things nice and organized.
Amazon
Amazon
Meyfancy Belt Bag 1L
$13.99 $17.99 22% OFF
While this Meyfancy Belt Bag comes in a variety of neutral colors, it’s anything but basic. The interior comes with three mesh slots to prevent you from aimlessly digging around inside, while the waterproof material will ensure your phone, ID and wireless earbuds don’t get water damaged.
Amazon
Amazon
Lanul Belt Bag
$15.99 $16.99 6% OFF
The Lanul Belt Bag has perfected the designer look — minus the luxe price. It features the classic fanny pack characteristics such as an adjustable strap you can wear around your waist or across your chest, and a main pocket with three mesh slots for added organization. There’s even a bonus concealed pocket you can store things such as your passport or money in.
Uniqlo
Uniqlo
Round Mini Shoulder Bag
$19.90
Give this Uniqlo Mini Shoulder Bag a round of applause for its unique shape and trendy design. Not only can you sport it on your shoulder, but the adjustable strap also allows you to wear it across your waist or chest — it’s that versatile. The size is also slightly larger so you can store more without relying on your pant pockets.
Target
Target
Wild Fable Basic Fanny Pack
$15
Wild Fable’s Fanny Pack expertly combines chicness with functionality as it sports a faux leather material and not just one, but two pockets for storage. Since you can adjust the strap to meet your unique preferences, it’ll make grabbing a hair tie or your go-to lip balm a total breeze.
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