Girl Gone Wild: Lorna Jane Clarkson

Lorna and her pup Roger

I'll admit it: I'm a bit of a workout apparel hoarder. I have more sports bras than I do pairs of pants, and I'll take a pair of sneakers over red-soled pumps any day. But when I find a brand I love, I'm loyal forever, mostly because it's so gosh darn hard to find a brand that lives up to the hype and the ever-important criteria of looking cute, fitting well, and performing perfectly. 

So when a pair of lovely PR ladies introduced me to Australia's leading activewear and sportswear label, Lorna Jane, I was impressed. Since then I've acquired a few pieces from LJ and they've taken me from my local jogging paths all the way to Yosemite and back again. I run in Lorna Jane, I climb in Lorna Jane and I'd sleep in if I could (wait, no I wouldn't, sweatpants are too awesome). I was humbled when the founder herself, Lorna Jane Clarkson, read a review of her apparel on my blog and spread the word—she's definitely a down-to-earth business woman who hasn't let success go to her head. So of COURSE I had to get to know the fitness-guru (and, to my surprise, outdoor enthusiast). Read on to meet Lorna and get majorly inspired to do something healthy for yourself today:

What makes you a Dirtbag Darling?

One of the things I crave as soon as I wake up is to get outdoors, breathe in some fresh air, soak up a little sunlight and get my body moving. I absolutely love an early morning hike, run along the beach or simply walking my dog. It has become a daily ritual that allows me to clear my head, be in the moment and prepare for the work day ahead. On weekends, I might follow my run with a swim in the ocean or some yoga moves on the beach. It's amazing how much positive energy you can generate by simply being outdoors.

The Lavish Zip Through jacket. Photo courtesy of Lorna Jane.

Why does your clothing stand up to the outdoorswoman test?

We road test every piece to ensure it withstands even the toughest of workouts! Our product is made from our intelligent performance fabric (our trademarked LJ Excel) that is extremely durable, has 4-way stretch, wicks moisture and is light-weight, quick drying and breathable. All this, to ensure you not only look amazing but you are guaranteed to stay comfortable, cool and dry in the great outdoors. 

What's the most adventurous thing you've ever done?

White water rafting in Far North Queensland. It involved four people in a rubber raft at the top of a mountain with a guide, and then propelling the raft down a series of white water rapids at high speed. Basically you just hold on, use your oars to keep the raft off the jagged rocks and hope for the best! Another thing I consider pretty adventurous is quitting the security of my day job to pursue my dream to build a women's activewear company and inspire women to Move, Nourish and Believe. 

Lattice Excel Tank. Photo courtesy of Lorna Jane.

What are three practical things we can do everyday to live a healthier, happier life?

There are three simple guidelines to live an active life: promise to move your body everyday, nourish from the inside out and believe anything is possible with a little hard work. Ride your bike to work, walk the dog every morning, or take a stroll around the block during your lunch break. Choose to eat in and experiment with a new recipe every week. Lastly, take the glass is half fall approach to live. Arrange some of your favorite inspirational quotes on your desk at work or in your home to give you that little extra motivation boost when you need it most! 

What are your"must-dos" for a U.S. visitor in your city?

We are famous for our white sandy beaches that are only an hour away from the city. So while in Brisbane, you would have to spend at least a couple of days at the beach! Other must-dos include hiking on one of the many trails at Mount Cootha, doing the legendary Kangaroo Point stairs (if you want a major leg workout), or for something a little less intense, a peaceful walk through the lush Botanic Gardens is breathtaking, especially in the spring. If you aren't afraid of heights, the Story Bridge Climb will give you a perfect view of the city.

Lydia Bra. Photo courtesy of Lorna Jane.

Style tip time! What are three or four pieces you'd suggest a Dirtbag Darling choose from your newest collection?

1. Zelda Full Length Tight from our luxe label LJ Black. I love the super-flattering mesh panelling and the extra support of the core stability power mesh lining!

2. Lydia Bra with supportive cross-over straps.

3. Lattice Excel Tank with a super feminine and fashionable necklace.

4. Lavish Zip Through jacket, the perfect laying piece during the cooler months. 

5. Last but definitely not least, every active woman needs a pair of the iconic Amy Full Length Tight. Think of them as the LBD of the active arena!

Thank you so much Lorna! To learn more about Move. Nourish. Believe and Lorna Jane, visit lornajane.com.au.