Lorna Jane Clarkson’s name is synonymous with activewear that moves as seamlessly as the women who wear it. From her beginnings as a fitness instructor in Brisbane to founding a global brand in 1989, Lorna Jane has spent over three decades transforming the way women dress, move, and live. Her designs balance function with style, proving that activewear can be both performance-driven and unapologetically chic. For this week’s Friday Muse, Clarkson opens up about her earliest fashion memories, the pieces she can’t live without, and the timeless approach to design that continues to inspire women around the world.
In conversation with Lorna Jane Clarkson
Let’s get up to speed. Tell us a bit about you and your career to date.
I started my career as a fitness instructor in Brisbane, what began as a simple desire to create stylish workout clothes for myself turned into a lifelong passion and global brand. When I founded Lorna Jane in 1989, there really wasn’t any workout clothes that made women feel confident and fashionable while being active, so I set out to create a new category that we now call ‘Activewear’. Over three decades later, my mission remains the same: to change the way women move, dress and live their lives.
What is your earliest memory of fashion?
My earliest memory of fashion is watching my mum get ready for work. She always wore the latest styles and had such an effortless sense of elegance, even the simplest outfit looked chic on her. I remember how her confidence seemed to lift as she got ready, and that stuck with me. It taught me that fashion isn’t just about what you wear – it’s how it makes you feel.
How would you describe your personal style, and what influences it the most?
I love clothes that make me feel confident, comfortable, and ready for whatever the day brings. My style moves between businesswoman and beachside at Byron, so it needs to be flexible – relaxed but stylish. I love pieces that can take me from meetings to an afternoon walk on the sand without missing a beat.
How do you balance function and fashion when designing activewear?
For me, the two go hand in hand. A garment should not only look beautiful but perform beautifully too. It needs to move with you, support you, and feel amazing against your skin. Every activewear design starts with function – the fabric, the fit, the detail – and then we add the kind of style and versatility that makes you want to wear it in your everyday life as well.
What trends in activewear are exciting you right now – and which ones are you ready to leave behind?
I’m really loving the return of relaxed silhouettes — think flares, wide-leg and easy-fit pants that take you seamlessly from your workout to brunch with friends. What I’m ready to leave behind are fast-fashion fads that don’t last or have purpose. Great style should be timeless, functional, and make you feel incredible every time you wear it.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
To trust my instincts. Every major turning point in my career, from starting my business to staying true to my vision has come from listening to my inner voice. I’ve learnt that intuition is a powerful compass if you’re brave enough to follow it.
Are there any New Zealand designers you gravitate toward or that more people should know about?
I’ve always admired Karen Walker and Kate Sylvester. They both have such distinct, confident styles that embody the effortless sophistication New Zealand fashion is known for. There’s a strength and authenticity in their designs that really resonates with me.
What trends do you think everyone will be wearing this time next year?
I think we’ll see a continued move toward quiet luxury – investment pieces that are beautifully made, thoughtfully designed, and versatile enough to live in every day. In activewear, expect more refined, loose-fit silhouettes, creative colour palettes, and fabrics that perform but also feel amazing against your skin. It’s all about elevated ease and style that supports your lifestyle.
Quick-fire questions
The next item on my wardrobe wishlist is… Gucci Ballet Flats.
The book currently on my bedside table is… Home Stretch by Graham Norton.
My favourite place to dine… At home,
My next holiday destination… Thailand for 6 nights of bliss.
Early bird or night owl… Early bird.
Three beauty products I can’t live without… Sunscreen, water and sleep.
