Oiselle, the maker of women’s running and athletic apparel based in Seattle, has formed a partnership with Summit to Soul, a DC-based specialty retailer serving women athletes. While the two companies have worked together since 2016, in a traditional wholesale relationship, the new partnership will take both businesses into new territory.
On March 9, 2019, at a launch event hosted by both companies at Summit to Soul, the DC store will become the only retail location, other than oiselle.com and Oiselle’s Flagship Store in Seattle, that carries Oiselle’s extended line, including premium outerwear, base layers and bottoms, capsule collections, accessories, and more. The partnership is a natural next step for both companies, who had already worked together in a variety of ways, including seasonal launches, group runs, and support during various DC-based events such as the Marine Corps Marathon and the Women’s March. Summit to Soul, which is unique in its apparel-only focus, has also been a go-to retailer for the Oiselle Volée, Oiselle’s national running team that has a strong member base in the DC area.
“This is a trifecta,” said Sally Bergesen, Oiselle founder and CEO, “the DC running community, our growing number of teammates, and Summit to Soul — a fantastic gathering place, retailer, and fellow women-owned business. A strategic partnership like this is also good in a mixed environment for brick & mortar, helping us stay on our path of growing thoughtfully and profitably.”
Founder Kim Wattrick opened Summit to Soul in 2016. A long-time resident of Washington, DC, Wattrick received her BA from Georgetown University and an MA in International Affairs from Johns Hopkins SAIS. Summit to Soul allowed Wattrick to combine her passion for fitness, fashion and socially responsible business. Both Oiselle and Summit to Soul share similar values in terms of purpose (helping women connect with themselves and each other through sport) and product focus (premium apparel and gear that works hard and looks great).
“We’re thrilled to announce this partnership and make Oiselle a bigger part of our story at Summit to Soul,” stated Wattrick. “We know we already have a wonderful, active, discerning community of women who are Summit to Soul supporters. And similarly, Oiselle has a great following. We look forward to being stronger together and showing how women-led businesses can run and lead, just like the unprecedented number of women elected to office in the fall midterms.”
Founded in 2016, Summit to Soul is located in the Barracks Row neighborhood of DC. In addition to a curated selection of premium athletic brands, the store also hosts weekly events, run clubs, and is highly engaged in the community.
