In a post-pandemic world craving sophistication and versatility, one sportswear brand is daring to redefine contemporary fashion. Meet Arlo Mott, the brainchild of Alex and Karen Drexler and Susan Woo, which is rapidly carving out its niche in the competitive sportswear market. Launched just last year, the brand has already doubled its wholesale business from fall 2025 to spring 2026, a testament to its growing appeal. But here's where it gets intriguing: how did three industry veterans manage to create a brand that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern? And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about the clothes; it’s about the story, the craftsmanship, and the personal touch that sets Arlo Mott apart.
From its humble beginnings in the Drexlers’ TriBeCa apartment, Arlo Mott has expanded its wholesale accounts from 15 to 40 specialty stores, including prestigious names like Capitol, Tootsies, Kirna Zabête, and Max in Colorado. But what’s truly bold about this brand? While many focus on trends, Arlo Mott prioritizes timelessness, offering pieces like poplin shirts that Karen Drexler describes as her ‘love language.’ These aren’t just clothes; they’re versatile staples designed to make you feel ‘put together’ whether layered or worn solo. Controversial take: In an era of fast fashion, is focusing on timelessness a risky move or a genius strategy?
The founders’ backgrounds are as complementary as their skill sets. Susan Woo brings design and product development expertise from her time at Derek Lam, Chanel, and her eponymous line. Karen Drexler, a former buyer at TNT and merchandiser at Alex Mill, handles design, merchandising, and sales. Alex Drexler, meanwhile, leverages his business acumen to steer the startup. Together, they’ve created a brand that’s both sophisticated and approachable, using European fabrics and producing mostly in New York, with knits crafted in China.
And this is the part most people miss: The brand’s name itself is a blend of personal and professional inspiration. ‘Arlo’ was a name the Drexlers considered for their daughter (who they ultimately named Frankie), while ‘Mott’ pays homage to Mott Street, a place where they’ve discovered countless new brands. This personal touch extends to their business model—showcasing collections in their apartment, where buyers can touch fabrics and engage in meaningful conversations. Is this intimate approach sustainable as the brand grows?
Beth Buccini, founder of Kirna Zabête, praises the brand’s ability to elevate uniform dressing with sophisticated essentials. ‘Karen has an impeccable style and a true understanding of a woman’s needs,’ Buccini notes, highlighting the brand’s unique ability to reinvent basics like shirting in a cool, desirable way. But here’s the question: Can Arlo Mott maintain its refined aesthetic while scaling its operations?
The brand’s pricing reflects its commitment to quality: poplin shirts retail for $365, sweaters for $395, and jackets start at $450. For fall, they’re introducing 50 styles, including shirtdresses, leather jackets, and draped trousers. Controversial interpretation: Are these prices inclusive, or do they cater to a niche market? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
As Arlo Mott continues to grow, the founders remain grounded in their mission to create versatile, comfortable pieces that transition seamlessly from day to night. With plans to expand into leather pieces and refine their offerings each season, they’re proving that in a world of fleeting trends, timelessness can be revolutionary. So, we ask you: Is Arlo Mott the future of contemporary sportswear, or just another player in a crowded market? Let us know what you think!
