The Athleisure industry is the perfect fit for the iconic Australian identity – outdoors, fit, tanned and healthy. In fact, Australians spent $2.3bn on activewear in the 2018/19 Financial year. Spurred by the increase in healthy eating, gyms and other fitness services, this industry is over-indexed in the millennial generation and bolstered by textile innovations that allow for exciting fashion opportunities. Here are some of our favourite Athleisure brands:
PE Nation
Sydney-based PE Nation, started by Pip Edwards and Claire Tregoning in 2016 has experienced 400% growth since it began and is stocked in 255 stores globally. Says Edwards: ‘“To be honest, I thought we were at the tail end of the trend,” Edwards said of their launch - “What I didn’t realise was our unique proposition. We made the crossover (from sport to fashion) happen”. The focus of PE Nation’s garments is that they are design-driven. They have performance qualities in a fashion garment.
L’urv
L’urv is a luxury performance label that began in 2012 out of Little River, close to Melbourne. It’s currently available in 13 countries including the US, UK, New Zealand and United Arab Emirates. Started by Libby Petit, L’urv’s launch coincided with the Sport Luxe trend beautifully which saw her label being featured on Rachel Zoe’s blog and worn by celebrities such as Cameron Diaz. The label combines style and comfort with fun prints. “In an industry that was dominated so long by minimal players, L’urv filled the gap for unique fashion-inspired sportswear,” says Libby.
First Base
First Base was founded by Alison Cotton, a yoga and surfing enthusiast in 2013. The brand ethos is about getting back to basics and the style of garment features clean and simple lines. Now seen as a ‘go-to’ label for activewear, the brand is focused on a transparent production line and is known for ethical manufacturing practices and sustainable fabrications.
We love meeting with talented apparel designers. Here are some candidates looking for a fresh, exciting opportunity:
Erica - Apparel Director: $140K plus Super
Erica is currently working as a Apparel Director at a Manufacturer /distributor of a global sports brand across Australia and NZ. She manages all aspects of 20-million-dollar apparel business and reports to the MD and Chairman. The Apparel business comprises national wholesale programs, vertical retail stores and e-commerce. During Erica’s tenure the wholesale business has grown substantially, and the retail business has seen an improvement in product mix, faster stock turn and increased margins. Key responsibilities include merchandise management, design management, team management, sourcing strategy (including buying, planning) and sales and account management.
Kylie - Head Creative: $120K plus Super
Kylie is a highly experienced, concept-driven, hybrid-skilled, smart-thinking creative with a proven record in driving results in the apparel industry. Born in England, but calling Australia and Canada home, she has worked on a multitude of international projects with 10 years of hands on experience designing for small, medium, and large businesses, agencies and brands. Kylie has a passion for creating sharp, professional, and unique designs and messages that immediately attract attention and drive responses. She has a proven track record of meeting the most demanding deadlines, communicating effectively with cross-functional teams, and leading by example. She's dedicated to finding the most cost-effective and creative solutions for all challenges and has a hands-on approach to directing artists, collaborating with clients and bringing concepts to life.
Naheen - Extreme Sports Designer: $125K plus Super
Naheen is an experienced men’s designer who has worked in Australia, USA and London across brands like Freshjive, Abercrombie & Fitch (USA) and Elwood as a Senior Design Manager. She is responsible for the design direction of the brand, and the research of technical advancements in active-wear fabrics. Naheen's role also includes managing the men’s and women-wear teams, liaising with suppliers, costings and worldwide travel. After 5 years in a senior role in Melbourne, she took the opportunity to move to the US and work for Abercrombie & Fitch as Senior Designer for the Hollister label.This involved attending research trips, working closely with the merchandise planner, and developing ranges. Naheen moved back to Australia with her family and commenced work as a men’s active sportswear Designer. She's now ready to return to a new role in extreme sport related menswear.
Is your business looking for up and coming Athleisure industry experts? Get in touch!
Kind Regards,
Janine, Amy & Natalie