IT’S A WRAP: HBO Max viewers know Nicole Ari Parker for her role in the ‘Sex and the City’ reboot ‘And Just Like That,’ but QVC enlisted her at the front of Gymwrap, the sportswear company she started with her husband, actor Boris Kodjoe.
The couple, who started their clothing business in 2011, will appear live Tuesday at 9 a.m. EST on QVC. Shoppers will also find the women-founded, black-owned business on QVC’s e-commerce site and across all of its platforms.
After starting with headbands, Parker and Kodjoe have expanded their collection to feature other activewear essentials. Like his wife, who was also a model at one point, Kodjoe has her own fanbase thanks to her appearance in the fire station-based drama series “Station 19.” He is also known to be a serious contender on the tennis courts in and around Hollywood, where Gymwrap is part of his attire.
In a statement, Rachel Ungaro, general merchandise manager and vice president of fashion merchandising at QVC, said the company jumped at the chance to work with the husband and wife team. “Nicole understood firsthand the challenges women face when it comes to protecting their hair during exercise, which inspired her to create Gymwrap.” adding that affordability and inclusiveness of line size were other benefits.
In addition to headbands in different colors, QVC will offer performance-focused Gymwrap t-shirts, tank tops, leggings, jackets, and joggers that will retail for between $22 and $54. Knowing the meaning of the second part of athleisure, the set can be worn not only for exercise and daily chores, but also for relaxation.
In a statement, Parker said the connection with QVC “gives us access to an incredible community and platform to help inspire women to take that first step towards achieving their goals and realizing their dreams.”
Earlier this month Parker, 52, was pictured wearing a Louis Vuitton ensemble as he filmed scenes for what is believed to be a second season for ‘And Just Like That’. Gymwrap activity on QVC could be boosted by another of Parker’s pro ventures. Another upcoming role for Parker is a starring role in the feature film “A Snowy Day in Oakland,” in which she plays a therapist who ends a relationship with her beau and longtime business partner. The Kim Bass-directed film also features Deon Cole, Kimberly Elise, Evan Ross, Loretta Devine and more. It is due out in theaters on March 17.