THE NEST ZOOMS OUT ON 2021

JENN

What lesson(s) are you taking into 2022?
Over the past several years, I have learned to be more open and vulnerable which allows me to strengthen and value myself more, and it allows for much deeper relationships in my life. As I begin a new season of life, I want to continue to be open and vulnerable with others and myself and to welcome new opportunities, new relationships, new sites and overall new joyful moments to hold close and cherish.

Do you have a mantra that kept you going through wild times?
"One day at a time." (Sometimes one minute at a time.)

Given the opportunity to go anywhere or see anyone in 2022, where/who would it be?
My list of international travel is getting long but at the top of the list is Greece! And for who I'd love to see in 2022, that would be my sweet and spunky aunt who lives in North Carolina!

Favorite food or food group of 2021?
Always tacos and quac, and a slushie margarita on the side!

Anybody (at the nest or in the world) you'd like to give a shout out to?
I'd love to give a shout out to the two rockstar designers that I now have working alongside me - Camille and Maggie are not only super duper talented but so sweet and so fun! Their energy, enthusiasm, and knowledge of design and the Oiselle brand has been so amazing to see. I adore them and feel grateful to have them on the team!

TIFFANY

What lessons are you taking into 2022?
This year we were able to gather again with friends and family. It still looked different (pre-gathering Covid tests, masks, etc.) but I found myself sitting back and soaking in the joy of being together. It makes me happy to just be with those I love. I lost someone to Covid this year too. My biggest lesson from 2022 is to be present and cherish time with the people I love. This year really brought that lesson home.

Do you have a mantra that kept you going through wild times?
This too shall pass. As all things do.  

Flystyle of the year?
Sleeper hit of 2021, the Pockito knickers! So comfy and functional! I think I wore them every day from April to September, and are still wearing them for indoor winter activities.

REBECCA

What surprised you the most about 2021?
Just how TIRED my brain would feel. And full. Like new information just bounces off my eyeballs instead of going in.

What lesson(s) are you taking into 2022?
I need to carve out more time to do LESS. And whittle away all the inputs in my life that get me feeling overwhelmed.

Given the opportunity to go anywhere or see anyone in 2022, where/who would it be?
I would like to finally attend all the concerts I bought tickets for in 2020 that were postponed to 2021 and then AGAIN to 2022.

Favorite food or food group of 2021?
Carbs. Also the winner in 2020. But last year was more bagel focused. This year was more about rice straight from the rice cooker. With a little ponzu sauce on it, if I was feeling fancy.

Flystyle of the year award! If you had to pick just one - what style would it be?
Any of our Pants styles, but especially the Roga Jeans. In a year where my body flat out rejected the wearing of hard pants, Roga Jeans always worked.

MAGGIE

What lesson(s) are you taking into 2022?
In 2021 I learned (through struggle) how to approach myself in a kinder way and value my abilities in a greater capacity. This was made possible by walking with my life coach every Wednesday morning and putting my words into action. Shout out to Ilene!

Do you have a mantra that kept you going through wild times?
Why is this happening for me?

Favorite food or food group of 2021?
I discovered air fryers… I am obsessed with making sweet potato fries now.

Anybody (at the nest or in the world) you'd like to give a shout out to?
Rachel K., Camille, Jenn, and Martha! I love working with these amazing talented creative brains. I am always excited to be surrounded by their energy.

CAROLYN

Given the opportunity to go anywhere or see anyone in 2022, where/who would it be?
I want to explore more of the iconic hikes in the PNW mountains, including Smith Rock, Mt St. Helens and the Enchantments.

However I most definitely will be spending more time back at the beach. Some of us plan our race schedule for the year, meanwhile I’m here planning weekend getaways back to Los Angeles to hang on the beach with my BFFs soaking up all the sunshine I can.

Anybody (at the nest or in the world) you'd like to give a shout out to?
Kim Stevens is my Nest coworker that everyone needs to know. I couldn’t have made it through this year without her never ending support and IT problem solving skills. She is the website wizard that brings all of our ecommerce dreams to life, and we wouldn’t be the same without her.

Those days when the website doesn’t cooperate just like we want it to, she is there to problem solve in the most timely and calm way. She also has helped my tech challenged brain, bringing new projects to life including the Volée homepage refresh and navigating through a new email platform.

Kim is the definition of positivity, who brings joy to my workday. I’m so happy she came into my work life.

Flystyle of the year award! If you had to pick just one - what style would it be?
Obviously this is so tough but if I had to pick just one it would be the Flow Long Sleeve. This performance fabric is oh so comfortable yet oh so versatile. I’ve worn it for running, lifting and yoga. I live in these pieces not only fitness, but also as a layer to bring the pop of style my inner fashionista lives for.

JULIA

What lesson(s) are you taking into 2022?
One of the lessons I'm taking into 2022 is the importance of recalibration; continually checking in with myself and my processes and recalibrating as needed. I think this has always been an important practice but as the environment continually shifts I've found it's important to check in with myself to make sure that the process or even mindset that I'm approaching any given task or goal makes sense for the current situation, and to leave room for creative new ways to approach obstacles.

Favorite food or food group of 2021?
I think I've discovered one of my go to comfort foods of 2021 has been pizza. A classic for sure. One of my new favorite pizza topping combos? Sausage, goat cheese and some Mama Lil's Peppers!

Flystyle of the year award! If you had to pick just one - what style would it be?
This might be the toughest question yet, but considering I own more than one of them because I was afraid I would wear just one out, it might have to be the Light Lux Long Tank in Lemon/White. The color was a surprise favorite (with my skin tone) and I love wearing this on it's own, or as a layering piece. I also own the classic Lux version in multiple colors. it's one of my go to pieces. They have a kind of unique neckline which I also really like. They're such great building or layering pieces for the rest of the line and oh yeah, it's made from Lux so I just feel like I'm being hugged all day long!

MORGAN

What surprised you the most about 2021?

Travel and Connection! Being able to get out into the world and see competition, community, togetherness!

What lesson(s) are you taking into 2022?
Having more Trust! Trusting in myself (my abilities, my strengths, my communication), trusting my partner, my friends, my team I work with and just in general the people around me. I think in human nature we question things a lot, our own abilities, our friendships/families, our co-workers and I think just stepping out of that and trusting the people around us will make for an all around better life outlook!

Do you have a mantra that kept you going through wild times?
In the wise words of Ted Lasso, "Be a Goldfish!"

Given the opportunity to go anywhere or see anyone in 2022, where/who would it be?
Starting in 2022 I will get my all time anywhere with anyone! Nick (my fiance) is moving to Seattle on January 2nd and we are looking forward to exploring Seattle together even more, as well as traveling outside of the state together when we get to do so.

Favorite food or food group of 2021?
Cranberries: Cranberry scones, cranberry orange muffins, jellied cranberries, cranberry sauce, cheese with cranberry in it, cranberry cider....I love cranberries.

Anybody (at the nest or in the world) you'd like to give a shout out to?
KAMI! She is my sanity keeper and my consistent check in person. Obviously as my manager, she is obligated for check ins but it is always more than just work. She keeps me moving forward, confident in my ability to perform and constantly encouraged. As we all know, 2021 has been a ride, so having people like Kami on your team can make all the difference!

Flystyle of the year award! If you had to pick just one - what style would it be?
As a designer, I obviously love a lot of what we produce, but I am going to stick to my favorite, the OG Distance Shorts. I wore them and reached for them for almost every run.

BETH

Favorite food or food group of 2021?
Thanksgiving Dinner!

Anybody (at the nest or in the world) you'd like to give a shout out to?
The superpowered photo shoot team of Camille, Maggie and Rachel. They talked me into participating in our Fall 21 holiday concept shoot (which was pretty impressive since I had successfully avoided being in a photoshoot for 6 years!), and I was so happy that they did. Not only was it a wonderful experience- but it was so great to see these strong women at work. Their vision, communication, energy and spirit were amazing to be around, and I am looking forward to seeing what great things they will do in the future!

Flystyle of the year award! If you had to pick just one - what style would it be?
The PNW Shacket- period. The most stylish housecoat ever.

KATIE

Flystyle of the year award! If you had to pick just one - what style would it be?
Has to be the Bad Weather Flyout Tights! Fellow Nest-er Beth and I spent the last few miles of a very cold and rainy long run in early 2020 dreaming up our ideal cold, rainy weather tights, that would have made our run much more enjoyable. The design team was nice enough to humor our requests and feedback and come up with the Bad Weather Flyout Tights. I wish I had them during that run in January 2020, but I'm sure they'll get plenty of use this winter!

KAMI

What surprised you the most about 2021?
Taking a spin to try and keep this positive, is how resilient people can be. The past couple years have forced people to rethink what they thought they knew in many ways, but the creativity and strength that has come from this is something powerful.

What lesson(s) are you taking into 2022?
Going with the flow- there are just some things that you can't plan for, but learning to pivot, change direction, and adapt as needed, is something that is important.

Do you have a mantra that kept you going through wild times?
One day at a time...

Favorite food or food group of 2021?
Thai food. We started this year celebrating Friday nights by ordering take out from smaller restaurants and found a new favorite spot that we've returned to more than I will admit.

Flystyle of the year award! If you had to pick just one - what style would it be?
Choosing just one feels a bit like choosing your favorite child, but these are the ones that I find myself reaching for the most-

1. Lux V-Formation Track Jacket- the perfect layer
2. Power Move Pants- the "fancy" sweatpants
3. Katron Jacket- the elevated warmth

And the 3 of those paired together! <3

SARAH

What surprised you the most about 2021?
Our capacity for change doesn't go away as we age.

What lesson(s) are you taking into 2022?
Allowing myself to feel terrible sometimes also allows myself to feel amazing. Turns out, emotions are real and wonderful!

Do you have a mantra that kept you going through wild times?
It's ok to take a timeout.

Given the opportunity to go anywhere or see anyone in 2022, where/who would it be?
European Diamond League tour chasing Rebecca Mehra's race schedule.

Favorite food or food group of 2021?
Hello Robin cookies.

Anybody (at the nest or in the world) you'd like to give a shout out to?
Alison Mariella Désir is a true force in the world - working with her is a gift!

Flystyle of the year award! If you had to pick just one - what style would it be?
Power pocket shorts!!

ALLY

Do you have a mantra that kept you going through wild times?
To quote Prentis Hemphill, "Boundaries are the distance at which I can love you and me simultaneously."

Favorite food or food group of 2021?
Dumplings - that's a food group, right?

Flystyle of the year award! If you had to pick just one - what style would it be?
Say Anything Jacket - rainy, wet, windy walks/runs are no match.

CAMILLE

What surprised you the most about 2021?
How fast we were able to have access to vaccines + booster shots. Science rules!

What lesson(s) are you taking into 2022?
Be slow to react and quick to adapt.

Do you have a mantra that kept you going through wild times?
There is purpose where I'm planted—I'm exactly where I need to be.

Given the opportunity to go anywhere or see anyone in 2022, where/who would it be?
I would love to go to the countryside of France with, frankly, anyone! What a dream that would be.

Favorite food or food group of 2021?
The pasta from San Fermo Restaurant in Ballard. My sister is the pasta-maker there and anything she puts together is divine.

Anybody (at the nest or in the world) you'd like to give a shout out to?
Shoutout to Maggie for always bringing some extra sunshine to the Nest. What a treat it is to get to be your coworker AND friend!

Flystyle of the year award! If you had to pick just one - what style would it be?
The Power Pocket Shorts are my favorite Oiselle style to-date. SO comfy + flattering.

ATSUKO

What surprised you the most about 2021?
Covid was still around more than ever...the vaccine kicked my poor little body with EVERY SHOT...:(

The insurrection.....

The continued social unrest that just seems to plague this country but that even in the midst of all of this despair, it is possible to have hope and keep on going to love one another - warts and all. Cuz we all got 'em! 

Frozen New York Cupcakes are quite incredible. So is eating a cupcake like a sandwich. 

What lesson(s) are you taking into 2022?
Humility and kindness are enduring character to nurture and develop, and do not mean one lacks courage or confidence. And that being bold doesn;t have to come with being an a-hole. Laughter and finding the entertainment value - because it is there - is so good.

That physical movement doesn't have to come in big lofty things but little everyday commitment. I know this but why is this seemingly an annual "duh"??

Cupcakes still rock.

Do you have a mantra that kept you going through wild times?
Joy is an act of resistance to despair. Fear is real - face it and get through it because chances are, there's something better than this on the other side!

Given the opportunity to go anywhere or see anyone in 2022, where/who would it be?
Japan. I want to see my extended family and eat food there. Part of my heart is feeling the void.

Favorite food or food group of 2021?
Cheese, crackers, Amy's frozen lunches, cookies and cupcakes. Thank you Sally and the Snack Fairy for keeping things stocked up.

Anybody (at the nest or in the world) you'd like to give a shout out to?
Oh man. So. Many. People. In fact, I would have to say every person at the Nest. How about this: MARYANN. Her walkabout brought her back and it was truly a highlight and WIN for us and for me. But seriously, I can go on about each person and giving them a shout out. I can do that :)

Flystyle of the year award! If you had to pick just one - what style would it be?
Spring: Benjamina!

Fall: PNW Fleece Pullover + These pants I'm wearing today. The Poweron Pants! 

KARA

What lesson(s) are you taking into 2022?
Setting boundaries! Whether that be in making plans, training schedules or work - boundaries allow you to keep life sustainable long term.

Do you have a mantra that kept you going through wild times?
One moment after another, it is all progress.

Given the opportunity to go anywhere or see anyone in 2022, where/who would it be?
See a new country, meet new people and experience new cultures!

Favorite food or food group of 2021?
Soup dumplings!

Anybody (at the nest or in the world) you'd like to give a shout out to?
Maggie and Rachel K - who are always so supportive and such positive humans to work with :)

Flystyle of the year award! If you had to pick just one - what style would it be?
The. Shacket. I can dress it comfy/casually or on the go - and such a great layering piece! Otherwise, Katron in a close second with its sleek bomber-like style.

LILY

What surprised you the most about 2021?
That there was anything left in my house to Marie Kondo!

What lesson(s) are you taking into 2022?
Just because you can keep your sourdough starter alive, doesn’t mean you’ll suddenly sprout a green thumb. Some people just aren’t meant to garden.

Do you have a mantra that kept you going through wild times?
While I don’t have a mantra, I have found solace in the repetition of a daily run or walk. Getting moving helps keep my brain fresh and focused, and even though my routes can get a little boring, there’s something intensely calming and restorative about the routine. Or maybe that’s just the endorphins talking!

Given the opportunity to go anywhere or see anyone in 2022, where/who would it be?
Italy. I’d love to see where my great-grandmother was born.

Favorite food or food group of 2021?
Bread. This was my answer for 2020, and it will probably be my answer for 2022 as well.

Anybody (at the nest or in the world) you'd like to give a shout out to?
Anyone in the arts industry. It’s been a wild past two years, and having something to read or watch or listen to really got me through being trapped in my house!

Flystyle of the year award! If you had to pick just one - what style would it be?
Lux V-Formation Track Pants. They have the best zippered pockets in the game, and they’re equally great for lounging or for running errands--whatever the day has in store. I even have a backup pair. That way if one of them is dirty or in the wash, I’ll have another *when the need arrives. (*When, not if. It always does!)

SYDNEY

What surprised you the most about 2021?
I was surprised to be working from home at this point! I'm still a little shocked that the stay at home order lasted longer than 2 weeks, and it feels like a treat to work with staff at HQ when we have the opportunity.

What lesson(s) are you taking into 2022?
This year taught me more about gaining perspective. Everyone is going through different challenges at this time, so I have working on assuming the best intentions and replying with patience. Rachel Gardner has really helped me take a step back and see the bigger picture in customer care and our relationship with our customer base and Oiselle community as a whole.

Do you have a mantra that kept you going through wild times?
It takes as long as it takes. This has helped me through traffic and to give myself patience when troubleshooting problems!

Given the opportunity to go anywhere or see anyone in 2022, where/who would it be?
I cannot wait to visit my cousin in Australia!

Favorite food or food group of 2021?
Cheeses in all forms, but especially on wood fired pizza.

Anybody (at the nest or in the world) you'd like to give a shout out to?
The customer care team has been a joy to work with in its many iterations over the last year! I appreciate Katie's flexibility to step in and guide me and Emma this summer, and I have learned a ton from Rachel. It has been a joy onboarding Lily and seeing her grow in her new role on the CC team.

Flystyle of the year award! If you had to pick just one - what style would it be?
The PNW Shacket without a doubt! I wore this daily up until about one week ago when the temps dropped, and am so happy with the details that elevate this cozy layer, so I can wear it with my Lux bottoms or dress it up (maybe stepping out in jeans occasionally).

SALLY
With my CEO hat on, I'm so proud of what our team was able to accomplish in 2021.