KDW Review

About KDW Apparel

KDW Apparel creates yoga and pilates wear for the active woman. KDW was created by Katina Diane Walker, a Pilates instructor and fitness trainer. KDW is based out of Los Angeles, California and ALL their pieces are also made in Los Angeles, keeping business local and eco-friendly.

KDW releases limited edition prints throughout the year. Sign-up for their e-mail list to know when new prints are released. KDW Apparel is designed for a every woman’s body and flatters all body types.

KDW Review: Malibu Barbie Stripe Leggings

I was attracted to KDW when I saw them on my Instagram feed. They reminded me of the Dharma Bum rainbow stripe leggings. I reached out to KDW and they graciously sent me a tank, leggings and headband to review.

KDW review malibu barbie leggings schimiggy try on

KDW Malibu Barbie Leggings (try on)

Upon receiving the Malibu Barbie leggings, I could see that it would go with a lot of my tops. It’s a great versatile pant that will match with just about any color. I was stoked to try it on. I fell in love with the color, fit and material. Let’s delve deeper into the review!

#1 Size: I went per their size chart and ordered a medium. The medium fit me comfortably with a little room the spare around the waist. I would size down if you have a large bottom and thin waist. KDW sizing runs in between. I also recommend sizing DOWN if you’re in between sizes. I would say their leggings run true to size (TTS) if you have a straight body shape. For curvier gals, definitely size down because the waist runs big.

#2 Style: KDW makes tanks, long-sleeves, leggings, bras, and headbands. As of now KDW only makes women’s activewear. They offer fun prints and metallic fabrics.

KDW leggings review malibu barbie front back

Malibu Barbie Leggings (front and back)

#3 Inseam: The inseam of the Malibu Barbie leggings is 28″. The hem bunches at my ankles and can be worn over my heel and arch of foot.

#4 Rise: The leggings have a high rise fit with a 9″ front and 11.5″ back rise on the size medium pant.

#5 Waistband: KDW leggings have a tall waistband measuring 3.5″ and constructed with seams on the side. I did experience some slippage on the waistband. The waistband sits just underneath my navel.

Waistband (front)

Waistband (back)

#6 Fabric

Fabric Content: 87% Polyester and 13% Spandex blend
Fabric Feel: The fabric feels very slick and reminds me of Onzie fabric or swim material. The fabric feels thin but is still supportive.
Fabric Performance:
- Quick Drying
- Dry Wicking
- 4-Way Stretch
- Fabric is very durable. I sat on cement and wood surfaces on my recent trip to Alaska and did not experience any pilling or snagging of the fabric.
Opacity: Due to the bright fabric, I did not experience any see-through/opacity issues. The fabric is white backed. If I had sized down, there would be some stretching to white around the knees and bum area.
Fabric Features:
- Reflective KDW logo printed at outer right ankle area of the pant.
- No Pockets
- Because there are many abstract lines throughout the pant, there is no need for lines to match up.

KDW Logo

#7 When to Wear: KDW is great for any active sport. I love the slick and lightweight fabric. I would wear it casually or during workouts.

#8 Cost: KDW pricing is on par with the Onzie brand. Their leggings run for $75.

#9 Gusset: Leggings come with a triangle shaped and double layered gusset.

Gusset (inside)

Gusset (outside)

#10 Stitch Seam: The leggings are made with flat seams.

#11 UPF Protection: Not disclosed. Because the material feels like swimwear material, I believe there is some UPF qualities in the fabric.

#12 Made and Designed in Los Angeles, California.

#13 Care Instructions: Machine or hand wash on gentle cycle with sport detergent. I hang to dry on a foldable drying rack such as this one.

Should I Buy KDW?

Yes you totally should! Their designs are beautiful and the fabric and construction are excellent. I would definitely size down if you have curves. The fit will be more form fitting and not move while you are moving.