Bandier Q&A With Jaws and Lo

Sport, Strength, Style: We took to the streets with our favorite fitness experts to showcase our latest and greatest collection.

BANDIER is inspired by the New York girl; she’s a hustler who stays active from the studio to the streets and everywhere in between. So when we were looking for muses to shoot our new collection, we were inspired by our fitness instructor friends who embody the spirit of living fit, even beyond the gym. Their unique sports, from SoulCycle to Boxing, influence how they style their activewear at the gym and on the streets. Time to take on NYC streets in new BANDIER.

JAWS NELSON

Julie “Jaws” Nelson is a fitness coach and movement director who’s shaking up the New York City fitness scene. She first made a name for herself on Broadway as a classically trained ballerina and professional dancer. Propelled by her love for movement, Jaws joined the burgeoning studio scene at hot spots like SoulCycle, Rumble, and S10 Training. Along the way, she’s coached the likes of Dua Lipa and Karlie Kloss in movement direction and has been featured in campaigns for brands like Reebok and New Balance. Oh, and she’s a Global Ambassador for Adidas—no biggie.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BANDIER SET?

The Center Stage Bra and Legging is my all time favorite. Never lets me down!

How did you get into fitness?

Dancing was an integral part of my upbringing, nurturing my passion for movement and leading me towards a lifelong appreciation for fitness. Embracing the joy of constant motion, I always seek out new and invigorating ways to challenge myself in the realm of physical well-being.

GO TO NYC LUNCH?

I’m not a big lunch person. But a fav restaurant is Pasquale Jones!

Cocktail or mocktail of choice?

When it comes to cocktails, my go-to choice is a Negroni.

WHAT IS YOUR GO TO NYC WORKOUT?

When it comes to my preferred workout routine in New York, boxing takes the lead. It's a dynamic and empowering activity that seamlessly blends mental and physical well-being, offering a holistic approach to achieving optimal health.

Onesie or matching set?

Both! It all depends on the workouts and moods.

WHAT WOULD YOUR WALK ON SONG BE?

Uproar- Lil Wayne (used this song as my walk out song for my first amateur boxing competition)

What's your fitness mantra?

"The mind is the athlete" It reminds us that a strong and healthy mind is crucial for achieving overall well-being and peak performance. Taking care of our mental health, such as managing stress, practicing self-care, and cultivating a positive mindset, can greatly enhance our physical fitness journey and overall quality of life.

LO RIDA

Lauren, AKA “Lo,” is a SoulCycle instructor who’s become a rider favorite for her high energy, get-you-out-of-your-seat style. Originally from Baltimore, MD, Lo moved to New York City with dreams of becoming her own fitness goals. She joined SoulCycle as a spin instructor while also pursuing her passion for choreography and dance. She’s gained a following for making her classes feel like a high-intensity dance party and curating an impeccable pop playlist.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BANDIER SET?

I love BANDIER. My black set with white details feels so flattering. I love how it’s simple but also a little flirty.

What is your go to NYC workout?

I really have a great time in my own classes!!! I teach 12 classes a week so to be honest I usually don't have a lot of energy for extra workouts outside of that, but on the rare occasion I do, I love going to Sophia's bootcamp at Aarmy! I always feel so strong and I love supporting another badass woman in the industry.

ONESIE OR MATCHING SET?

I love a matching set, but I go for a onesie when I'm feeling spicy. I'll grab an oversized t-shirt to throw on top and I love the surprise element that I'm wearing a onesie underneath.

Go to NYC lunch?

I have a few, but my favorite recently has been the turkey sandwich at Court Street :)

HOW DID YOU GET INTO FITNESS?

I've always been an athlete. I grew up playing a few different sports, but started playing lacrosse in middle school/high school and for a club team in Richmond, VA. I fell in love with it. Then I went to college intending to play, but ended up on a different path, which was a tough loss for me. One of my roommates taught spin at our college gym and convinced me to try a class. I've been hooked ever since. When I found SoulCycle I instantly felt the same passion that I felt when playing lacrosse.

Cocktail or mocktail of choice?

If I'm drinking, I will always go mezcal margarita or orange wine. My favorite mocktails are watermelon lemonade (or really any lemonade) and electrolit for hydration.

WHAT'S YOUR FITNESS MANTRA?

My mantra has always been "Never dim your light to make other people comfortable". I heard it or saw it somewhere years ago and always felt like it spoke to me.

What would your walk on song be?

This is such a hard question for me - I feel like it could be a few different songs, but I would say Misery Business by Paramore.