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![]() Southern California is no stranger to these trendsetters. And while they have yet to ship their first order, Cocchia can see the future — a future bright with golf wear that is hip, edgy and a little bit sexy. Established about a year ago, Cocchia scrapped its first season to perfect what its designers describe as a fashion-forward line. The San Diego-based company decided to reassess its fabrics and colors, picked through its strongest pieces and then added a few new designs. After a February debut, Cocchia is ready for prime time. This fall, Cocchia will take the stage in pro shops, boutiques and online. “The response from everyone has been amazing,” said Lara Cocchia, founder and CEO of Cocchia. “It has confirmed that we were right on target with what we believed the contemporary market is looking for.” Cocchia’s fall line includes 24 designs, most of which are offered in three colorways. Inspired by traditional 1930s golf wear, the line includes knickers, capris and culottes, in addition to polos, rugby shirts and cardigan sweaters. “We’re going after the 25-40 age group,” Cocchia said. “We made a decision to launch in a small test market to ensure that we get it right the first time out the door.” Two years ago, Cocchia, a casual golfer with a background in finance, decided it was time for a career change. While at the Buick Invitational at Torrey Pines she took notice of Jesper Parnevik, the Swedish pro known for his flamboyant fashion sense. “It struck me that his clothes weren’t exactly crazy,” Cocchia said. “They were fun and so non-traditional.” So she got to thinking: Since golf has become so mainstream, why not offer women’s styles that play well and fit their lifestyle? “Golf is the new tennis,” said Cocchia, 28, who plays golf a few times a month. “Cocchia is sportswear inspired by golf.” While the fabrics are quality European, Cocchia’s focus is on fashion rather than performance. “We’re forecasting colors and trends,” Cocchia said. “We don’t want to copy what’s on the runway; we want to come out with our own styles.” This fall you can expect traditional hues — burnt orange, chocolate brown and steel blue — as the fabrics get a bit heavier. “Look for plaids, cotton twills and tweeds on and off the course,” said Cocchia, going through her fall line. “And yes, you will see cashmere.” While you are just as likely to see bold fashions on the course as out to dinner, you won’t have to pay the price for the versatility. Polos and capris average $68-$98, while sweaters range from $138-$178. Local pro shops have taken notice. Although closed for a course renovation, Sherwood Country Club in Thousand Oaks plans to open in August with a few of Cocchia’s pieces. “Their styles are cute, sexy and a little more edgy,” said Luana Giller, merchandising assistant at Sherwood. “We like to introduce something that’s new and Cocchia’s styles caught our eye.” For more information, check out www.cocchiastyles.com. |
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