Newport Knits: From Sidelines to Stylish Fan Gear
By: Amanda Huntsman
Newport Knits was born out of a simple, yet powerful observation. While spending countless hours cheering on their children at sporting events, Kate and Ginny noticed a gap in the market for fashionable fan gear. Inspired by their love for family, sports and design, the duo launched Newport Knits in December 2022. Their first collection of custom-designed sweaters debuted in April 2023, marking the beginning of their journey in creating what they call "Elevated Fan Gear."
At the heart of Newport Knits is the desire to create pieces that are not just worn but cherished. Kate and Ginny want their customers to wear their sweaters with pride beyond the bleachers. Their designs reflect a deep sense of community and pride, bringing together the spirit of support and love for design. Their upscale knit sweaters allow fans to showcase their loyalty at games and in their everyday lives, creating a seamless blend of fashion and fandom.
One of Newport Knits's most unique aspects is the diverse educational backgrounds of its founders. Both graduates of USC, Kate holds a degree in Occupational Therapy, while Ginny comes from the School of Cinematic Arts. This blend of expertise brings a fresh and creative approach to sweater design, combining functionality, comfort and an artistic eye. Every sweater they create is something they would love to wear themselves, ensuring the highest standards of quality and style.
Mission and Philosophy
Newport Knits is committed to empowering women nationwide through custom-designed, upscale fan gear that combines comfort and elegance. Their mission is to foster a sense of belonging and pride among fans, offering beautiful, sustainably made knit sweaters that allow individuals to express their loyalty in a chic and authentic way. Quality craftsmanship, sustainability, and building lasting connections with their customers are core values at Newport Knits.
Inspiration and Success Stories
Kate and Ginny's passion for their families and their joy in watching their children play sports fueled their desire to create a brand that elevates fan gear. Their hard work has paid off, as Newport Knits recently became officially licensed with numerous universities through a rigorous NCAA application process. They are also certified by the Women's Business Enterprise Council (WBEC), which supports the growth of women-owned businesses, and the Fair Labor Association, which underscores their commitment to ethical production practices.
A Message to the Community
"No more oversized hoodies or men's t-shirts," Kate and Ginny joke. With Newport Knits, fans can cheer on their teams in style with custom-designed sweaters that reflect their pride and spirit. The founders encourage the community to reach out for custom designs that showcase team loyalty in a chic and stylish way.
Future Goals for Newport Knits
The future is bright for Newport Knits. Kate and Ginny have ambitious plans to expand their licensing to include every university and professional sports league. They also dream of bringing their brand to international fans and continuing to elevate fan gear on a global scale.
Love for Newport Beach
The founders' love for their hometown inspired the name Newport Knits. Having lived in Orange County for years, they have a deep connection to the community and its many wonderful offerings. Some of their favorite local pastimes include riding bikes to the beach, stopping by Lido Marina Village, boating in the bay, and enjoying a dirty martini at A Restaurant.
Life Outside of Newport Knits
When they're not designing sweaters, Kate and Ginny enjoy spending time with their families. Watching their children play sports continues to be a source of joy and inspiration, reflecting the season of life that led to the creation of Newport Knits.
Giving Back to the Community
Kate and Ginny are dedicated to giving back to the community that has supported them from the start. Newport Knits actively contributes to local schools, businesses, and club sports, often donating to school auctions and fundraisers. Their commitment to Children's Hospital Los Angeles is particularly close to their hearts, as both Kate and Ginny have experienced the hospital's impact firsthand through their own families.
Web: www.newportknits.com
Social: Follow on IG @newportknits
Email: order@newportknits.com
