Arlo Mott is taking the fashion world by storm with its rapid growth in the contemporary sportswear market. But who are the masterminds behind this rising star?
Arlo Mott, the brainchild of Alex and Karen Drexler and Susan Woo, has seen an impressive expansion in the wholesale market, doubling its reach in just one season. From a modest 15 wholesale accounts in its inaugural fall 2025 season, the brand has now secured partnerships with 40 specialty stores for spring 2026. This includes renowned retailers like Capitol, Tootsies, Kirna Zabête, and TNT boutiques in Canada.
The founders' backgrounds are as fascinating as their brand's success. Alex Drexler, a seasoned entrepreneur, continues to helm Alex Mill, a classic sportswear brand for men and women. Karen Drexler, his wife, was a buyer at TNT, a Canadian retailer, and later joined Alex Mill. Susan Woo, a designer with experience at Derek Lam and Chanel, founded her own line in 2009, which unfortunately closed in 2015.
And here's where the story gets intriguing... The three friends combined their diverse skill sets to launch Arlo Mott in February last year. The brand's name, a charming blend of personal and professional influences, was inspired by a potential name for the Drexlers' daughter (Arlo) and their favorite street for discovering new brands (Mott Street).
The founders' friendship began through their children, and their headquarters are as unique as their brand—the Drexlers' apartment in TriBeCa. A cozy home-turned-office for this dynamic trio.
Susan Woo expressed gratitude for their partnership, emphasizing the challenges of starting a company. Karen Drexler, after a hiatus from the fashion world to focus on motherhood, found renewed inspiration through her friendship with Susan. Together, they recognized a gap in the market for sophisticated, timeless pieces that cater to busy women with multifaceted lives.
Arlo Mott's collection embodies this vision, offering a refined aesthetic with a contemporary twist. But what sets them apart? European fabrics, local production in New York, and a commitment to quality. The brand's poplin shirts, named after streets in Manhattan and Brooklyn, are a signature item, retailing at $365.
The founders strategically limited their partnerships for the first fall season, focusing on specialty stores for instant feedback. This approach paid off, with excellent sell-through rates and a strong relationship with retailers. Beth Buccini, owner of Kirna Zabête, praised the brand's elevated uniform dressing and Karen's impeccable style, eagerly anticipating the spring delivery.
Arlo Mott's success is further evidenced by its expansion into e-commerce and its ability to adapt to challenges like tariff chaos. With a unique business model and a deep understanding of their customers, the brand is poised for continued growth. But will they maintain this momentum? Only time will tell, and the fashion world eagerly awaits their next move.
