5 minutes with Gymluxe

Our January pop-up at our Notting Hill studio is from Gymluxe so we thought we would take 5 minutes to quiz founder Lara Young about her fitness clothing brand.

How did you get into fashion?

I previously worked as a commercial lawyer. That career brought with it a complete lack of work- life balance. Finally, I plucked up the courage to leave the law and began pursuing my interests of design, fashion and fitness. I researched the technical aspects of high performance fabrics, visited Paris to learn about fabrics first hand and worked on my designs. In August 2013, Gymluxe was launched.

What’s it like being in the fitness fashion industry?

When Gymluxe first launched there were very few small fitness wear labels for women other than the main players such as Nike, Adidas and Lululemon. Since late 2013, a new label hits the market almost monthly and even high street stores have launched their own fitness wear. Competition is fierce and the ability to differentiate your brand is crucial.

How would you describe your brand?

Gymluxe is the fusion of technical performance and luxe styling. We are a true British Brand i.e. our garments are not just designed in Britain, but manufactured here too. Wherever possible, we source what we can from the UK and ensure that everything we create is made in a 100% ethical way.

What inspired your designs?

We are inspired by women’s strength, style and individuality.

Why should we buy Gymluxe instead of any other sportswear brands?

Even more so than most other clothing, gymwear is a very personal choice. You not only choose your gymwear by its design, but also the fabric, the cut and the way in which the garment moves with you when you workout. Many low cost brands may look appealing on the hanger but they often stretch, bag and fall down after a few squats and stretches. It is worth investing a little more. At the other end of the spectrum there are brands that retail for £100’s per garment. This is beyond the reach of most women so we aim to provide for women who want to stand out from the mainstream crowd at an achievable price point.

How do you start your day?

Breakfast is a rushed affair before the hectic school-run. Post school run is the time to prepare the pre and post workout shakes and snacks and then its off to the gym for a 60-90 min workout subject to work commitments. I try and make it to the gym at least 4–5 times a week as it is my ‘thinking time’ without phones ringing in my ears.

Would you say you’re healthy, if yes, why is this important to you?

Yes, I would like to think I am healthy. By that I mean I eat well, although probably not regularly enough. I am interested in healthy nutrition and love cooking. I have a good balance and will not beat myself up about going out for a nice meal with family or friends. I also enjoy a G&T and feel that life is all about balance. Health should not be measured by calorie/fat/carb intake and gym attendance alone. It is also about life/family/work balance, time to rest and time to play.

When are you at your happiest?

I have just returned form a solo adventure in Brazil. Whilst I love my family dearly, having the time to myself and push myself out of my comfort zone was incredibly character building and I learnt a lot not just about the country and Brazilian people but also about myself. I have set myself a long list of self development goals since my return as well as returning with lots of inspiration for Gymluxe future collections.

What exercise do you do and how often?

I love resistance training as I enjoy focused exercises and setting myself personal strength and endurance goals. I also enjoy HIIT and love Boxing. Its important to keep mixing up your exercises so I also include some WATT bike training, spinning, body combat and body pump.

Any clothing tips for those getting into exercise?

Be careful! Don’t go rushing into some high impact workouts subsequently injuring yourself and putting yourself off exercise for life. Do something you enjoy not just what your friends do. Build slowly and make sure you keep asking questions as technique is everything.

Where do you see your brand in the future?

I have no aspirations for Gymluxe to become a huge label. We manufacture a limited quantity of each design to ensure we retain a “boutique” feel to the label. We are an ethical brand and I want to retain the fact that we manufacture in Britain. Our customers respect and praise us for this and that is very important to us.

What’s next for you professionally?

Professionally. I am not sure. I was professionally driven for many years when I worked as lawyer. My ‘drive’ now is more creative and brings with it a yearning for more self knowledge, travel aspirations and time with my family. All of these contribute in a positive way to my moulding of the Gymluxe brand and our future collections.

For more information about Gymluxe and their products visit www.gymluxe.com