Lululemon Packed Its 'We Made Too Much' Section With Fresh Winter Styles For the New Year, Starting at $29

The Lululemon “We Made Too Much” Section: A New Year’s Bargain Hunter's Paradise (and a Sign of the Times)
Lululemon has become synonymous with premium athletic wear, known for its high-quality fabrics, flattering fits, and often hefty price tags. However, for those seeking to snag Lululemon gear at a more accessible cost, the annual "We Made Too Much" section is a highly anticipated event. A recent article on Travel & Leisure (published January 2026) dives deep into this phenomenon, exploring its evolution, what shoppers can expect in January 2026, and what it reveals about Lululemon’s business strategies and the broader retail landscape.
What is "We Made Too Much"?
The “We Made Too Much” section isn't a clearance sale in the traditional sense. It's a curated collection of overstock items – pieces that didn't quite meet sales projections, were produced in excess due to forecasting errors, or represent discontinued colors and styles. Instead of simply slashing prices across the board, Lululemon strategically offers these items at discounted rates (typically 30-50% off) through both online channels and select brick-and-mortar stores. The name itself is a clever marketing tactic; it implies transparency and scarcity, creating a sense of urgency that drives demand.
The January 2026 Drop: What to Expect
According to the Travel & Leisure article, the January 2026 "We Made Too Much" drop promises to be particularly robust. Lululemon’s inventory management has been impacted by several factors in recent years, including fluctuating consumer demand post-pandemic and unexpected supply chain disruptions (as detailed in a Lululemon investor report linked within the article). These challenges led to an accumulation of overstock across various categories – leggings, tops, outerwear, and even accessories.
The January selection is expected to include:
- A Wide Range of Sizes: Unlike some previous drops where popular sizes quickly sold out, Lululemon has reportedly made a concerted effort to ensure broader size availability in the 2026 drop. This aims to cater to a wider customer base and reduce frustration among shoppers.
- Popular Styles at Reduced Prices: Expect to find beloved staples like Align leggings, Everlux tops, and Define jackets available at discounted prices. The article highlights that certain colorways of the popular Wunder Train leggings are expected to be heavily featured.
- Seasonal Items from Previous Collections: Items originally released in previous seasons (spring/summer 2025) will likely be included, offering shoppers a chance to snag pieces they may have missed at full price.
- Men's and Women’s Gear: While traditionally dominated by women’s apparel, the "We Made Too Much" section has been expanding its offerings for men, and this trend is expected to continue in 2026. The article notes a growing demand for men’s running gear within the discounted selection.
- Potential for Limited-Edition Items: While rare, there's always a small chance of finding limited-edition or collaboration pieces within the "We Made Too Much" section, making it even more appealing to dedicated Lululemon fans.
The Psychology and Strategy Behind “We Made Too Much”
The Travel & Leisure article goes beyond simply describing the event; it analyzes why Lululemon employs this strategy. It's not just about clearing out excess inventory. The "We Made Too Much" section serves several key purposes:
- Maintaining Brand Perception: Deep discounting can damage a brand’s image, making it appear less premium. By framing the sale as a curated selection of overstock rather than a clearance event, Lululemon mitigates this risk.
- Attracting New Customers: The discounted prices make Lululemon accessible to customers who might otherwise be deterred by the higher price points. This expands the brand's reach and introduces new shoppers to its quality and fit.
- Driving Online Traffic & In-Store Footfall: The anticipation surrounding the "We Made Too Much" drop generates significant online buzz and encourages visits to physical stores, boosting overall engagement with the brand.
- Managing Inventory Effectively: It's a proactive way to manage inventory levels and prevent excessive markdowns later in the year, which could further erode profit margins.
A Reflection of Retail Trends
The success of Lululemon’s "We Made Too Much" section also speaks to broader trends in the retail industry. The article connects it to the rise of “dupe” culture and the increasing consumer desire for value. Shoppers are more discerning than ever, actively seeking out deals and alternatives to premium brands. The pandemic further accelerated this trend, as consumers reevaluated their spending habits and prioritized essential purchases.
Furthermore, Lululemon’s experience highlights the challenges faced by retailers in accurately forecasting demand and managing supply chains in a volatile economic climate. The overstock situation isn't unique to Lululemon; many brands are grappling with similar issues. The "We Made Too Much" section is, in essence, a visible manifestation of these underlying complexities.
Conclusion:
Lululemon’s “We Made Too Much” section has become more than just a sale; it’s a carefully orchestrated event that balances inventory management, brand perception, and customer engagement. The January 2026 drop promises to be particularly noteworthy, offering shoppers a chance to score coveted Lululemon gear at discounted prices while providing valuable insights into the company's operational strategies and the evolving landscape of retail. For bargain hunters and dedicated Lululemon enthusiasts alike, marking your calendars for this annual event is a must.
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Read the Full Travel + Leisure Article at:
[ https://www.travelandleisure.com/lululemon-we-made-too-much-new-year-finds-january-2026-11873134 ]