Lululemon Nocturnal Teal vs. Submarine: What's the difference?

While sharing a similar aquatic naming theme, Lululemon's Nocturnal Teal and the brand Submarine represent two entirely different worlds in apparel. Lululemon's Nocturnal Teal is a specific colorway for high-performance activewear, known for its technical fabrics and athletic fit, whereas Submarine is a contemporary streetwear brand focused on bold, trend-driven designs and accessibility.

Here’s a detailed look at each brand to help you decide which one aligns with your style, needs, and budget.

Lululemon (Nocturnal Teal)

Lululemon is a premium athletic apparel company famous for its high-quality workout and athleisure wear. The Nocturnal Teal colorway is a deep, rich hue offered across their product lines, known for its versatility and sophisticated look on their signature performance fabrics.

• What it is: A premium activewear brand offering performance-driven apparel. Nocturnal Teal is one of its many seasonal and core colors.
• Key features: Technical fabrics (like Nulu and Everlux) that are sweat-wicking, breathable, and offer four-way stretch. Designs focus on functional, minimalist aesthetics with a flattering, body-contouring fit.
• Price: Premium pricing, typically ranging from $98 to $148 for leggings and tops.
• Materials/Construction: Engineered fabrics designed for durability, shape retention, and comfort during intense physical activity.
• Sizing/Fit: Offers a consistent, true-to-size athletic fit designed to support movement. Sizing typically runs from 0-20.
• Pros: Exceptional quality and durability. Superior performance-oriented materials. Flattering and functional fits. Strong brand reputation and resale value.
• Cons: High price point can be a barrier. Styles are minimalist and may not appeal to those seeking bold, graphic designs.

This brand is ideal for those who invest in high-performance activewear for workouts, yoga, running, and a polished athleisure look.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com

Submarine

Submarine is a contemporary fashion brand specializing in streetwear and casual apparel. Known for its trendy, youth-focused audience with bold colors, graphic designs, and modern, relaxed silhouettes that prioritize style and self-expression.

• What it is: A streetwear brand offering trendy, casual apparel like hoodies, joggers, and t-shirts.
• Key features: Focus on urban, fashion-forward styles with playful graphics and vibrant colorways. The fit is often relaxed or oversized to align with current streetwear trends.
• Price: More accessible, with most items falling between $50 and $100.
• Materials/Construction: Utilizes standard apparel fabrics like cotton, polyester, and comfortable blends suited for everyday casual wear.
• Sizing/Fit: Features standard sizing with a tendency towards relaxed and oversized fits. The fit is less about performance and more about a casual, comfortable fashion statement.
• Pros: Affordable and budget-friendly. On-trend, bold, and expressive designs. Comfortable, relaxed fits for casual scenarios.
• Cons: Materials are not designed for athletic performance. Quality and durability may not match premium activewear brands. Less focus on sustainable or ethical production.

Submarine is a great fit for fashion-conscious shoppers looking for unique, statement-making streetwear for everyday life without a premium price tag.

Shop this product: www.submarine.com

Lululemon vs. Submarine Comparison

Quality & Materials

There is a significant difference in materials and construction between the two. Lululemon invests heavily in proprietary technical fabrics built for sweat-wicking, stretch, and recovery. Whether it’s the buttery-soft Nulu fabric for yoga or the fast-drying Everlux for intense training, the focus is squarely on performance and longevity. You feel the quality in the seams, the fabric weight, and how it holds its shape after countless workouts and washes.

Submarine uses more conventional materials like cotton and polyester blends, which are standard for streetwear. While comfortable for casual wear, they lack the performance features of Lululemon's apparel. Submarine's construction is geared towards fashion, not athletic durability, so the fabrics may not hold up as well under the stress of intense exercise.

Style & Aesthetic

Lululemon’s aesthetic is clean, minimalist, and functional. Their colors, like Nocturnal Teal, are often sophisticated and easy to style, allowing the fit and fabric to be the main features. The look is polished and athletic, easily transitioning from the gym to errands.

In contrast, Submarine’s style is loud, trendy, and expressive. Their pieces often feature bold graphics, vibrant colors, and oversized fits that align with current streetwear culture. The aesthetic is about making a statement and showcasing individuality, targeting a younger, more trend-focused person.

Price & Value

Lululemon operates at a premium price point, with leggings often costing over $100. The value proposition is in the performance, durability, and fit - you're paying for technical innovation and a product that lasts. Many customers see it as an investment in their active lifestyle.

Submarine offers much more accessible pricing, with joggers and hoodies typically under $100. The value here is in fashion and trend accessibility. You can get a stylish, of-the-moment look for a fraction of Lululemon's cost, though you sacrifice the performance features and long-term durability.

Fit & Sizing

Fit is another key differentiator. Submarine's fit is generally relaxed and aligns with oversized streetwear trends. It's designed for comfort and a specific urban look, not for hugging your body during a squat or run.

Lululemon is known for its precise, body-contouring fits that are designed to support and move with you. The brand offers consistent sizing and specific designs engineered for different activities, whether you need compression for running or unrestricted stretch for yoga.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both brands serve their target audience well, but they cater to completely different needs and priorities.

Choose Lululemon if:

• You need high-performance apparel for activities like yoga, running, or gym training.
• You prioritize fabric quality, durability, and a flattering, supportive fit.
• You prefer a minimalist, polished, and versatile athleisure aesthetic.
• You are willing to invest in premium activewear that will last for years.

Choose Submarine if:

• You're looking for trendy streetwear and casual everyday clothing.
• Your priority is style, bold graphics, and making a fashion statement.
• You prefer relaxed, comfortable, and sometimes oversized fits.
• You are shopping on a smaller budget and want affordable, fashion-forward pieces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Lululemon and Submarine?

The main difference is their purpose. Lululemon creates high-performance athletic apparel with technical fabrics, while Submarine is a streetwear brand focused on trendy, casual fashion. Lululemon is about function and fit, Submarine is about style and expression.

Is Lululemon better quality than Submarine?

For athletic purposes, yes. Lululemon's fabrics and construction are specifically engineered for performance, durability, and comfort during exercise, making them superior in quality for activewear. Submarine's quality is standard for casual fashion apparel but not intended for athletic use.

Which brand is more expensive?

Lululemon is significantly more expensive, with individual items often costing double or more than comparable pieces from Submarine. Lululemon's pricing reflects its investment in proprietary fabrics and performance-oriented design.

What kind of style is Lululemon's Nocturnal Teal?

Nocturnal Teal is a deep, muted teal color. It reflects Lululemon's overall aesthetic: sophisticated, versatile, and modern. It's a color that can be worn for a workout or styled for a casual, sleek street look without being overly flashy.

Is Lululemon suitable for everyday wear?

Absolutely. Lululemon is a leader in the "athleisure" movement, and its clothing is designed to be comfortable and stylish enough for both workouts and everyday life, such as running errands or meeting friends.

Is Submarine considered activewear?

No, Submarine is not activewear. While some pieces like joggers and hoodies might be comfortable for very light activity, they lack the moisture-wicking, stretch, and supportive properties of true performance gear.

How does Lululemon sizing compare to Submarine?

Lululemon offers a tailored, athletic fit that is generally true to size and designed to contour the body. Submarine's sizing leans toward a looser, more relaxed, and sometimes oversized fit common in streetwear.

Which brand is more sustainable?

Lululemon has more public-facing commitments and established programs related to sustainability, including goals for using eco-friendly materials and ethical manufacturing. Submarine's sustainability initiatives are a bit behind the scenes.