Image courtesy of BRR Architecture
Another place to buy comfortable but high-performing activewear (that can double as work-from-home clothing) could soon be coming to Old Town.
Requests by Gap, Inc and Douglas Development for partial demolition, alterations and new signage at 603-607 King St. for an Athleta store will be reviewed by the Board of Architectural Review at Wednesday’s meeting.
The site was home to La Tasca, a tapas bar known for its wide selection of sangrias and live salsa dancing. The restaurant closed its doors in March 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The closure became permanent when the chain declared bankruptcy two months later.
Athleta, whose tagline is “The Power of She,” sells sustainable and high-end activewear for women and girls. According to Gap, Inc.’s website, the brand’s mission “is to ignite a community of active, healthy, confident women and girls who empower each other to reach their limitless potential.” In addition to yoga leggings, sweatpants and running shorts, the brand also sells clothing for a variety of activities including hiking, swimming, work and travel.
Other than Athleta, Gap, Inc. also owns Old Navy, Banana Republic, Gap, Intermix and Janie and Jack. Hill City, a men’s athletic apparel brand owned by Gap, Inc. shut down in 2020 in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, only two years after it was created. On the flip side, Athleta is one of Gap, Inc.’s most successful brands which is why the number of stores is continuing to grow.
Currently, the closest Athleta locations to Alexandria are in Georgetown and Tyson’s Corner.
An opening date for the new Alexandria location has not been announced.
