Byron Bay. One of Australia’s most iconic surf spots and home of Arcadia Movement, the activewear label which lends a distinct nod to the chilled beach culture that those living the city life often love and crave.
With each individual piece a reflection of this luxe coastal vibe and intricate prints created from hand-painted artworks by the designer herself, Gemma Stanford let us in on her inspiration and desire to create a line which is popping up in workout wardrobes near and far.
How did Arcadia Movement come about? Take us through your story.
Living and growing up in the surrounds of Byron Bay, it is a very outdoors focused and free-spirited lifestyle. Like a lot of places in Australia, being active doesn’t so much mean sweating it out in the gym. You could be in the ocean or walking a bush track or doing yoga in your backyard. Having always worked as a designer in fashion and surf industries, I wanted to create a collection that stood for all of that. Including my love for simplistic styling, art and refined aesthetics.
Where did you draw inspiration from when designing Arcadia Movement?
Many places. My love for art and textiles, architecture, vintage sportswear, the street and how we move.
Who is the Arcadia Movement girl?
She is the girl that loves to take the time to move. In any or no particular way. She moves however she wants, it may be on the yoga mat or in the ocean, sweating it out in the gym or dancing her heart out to her favourite song. Being fit and healthy is not always a serious thing to her, its just part of life and enjoying it all. She also wants her appreciation for good style to reflect her workout look.
What makes Arcadia Movement different to other activewear brands?
The hand painted prints which I create myself makes each collection very unique. A.M is very much a diverse brand, giving you a range of pieces to move in that you might want to wear all day. Each piece is designed with directional shapes and premium fabrics with a simplistic and forward approach to sports style.
How would you best describe Arcadia Movement in three words?
Free. Limitless. Style.
What are some of the standout features of your activewear range?
All the active stretch pieces are made from premium sports fabrics and designed to complement and support each shape. Each piece in our swim collection, keeps you covered in all the right places. Another would be the fact that a lot of our pieces are not just workout specific, so it provides items that you are able to wear whenever you like.
SHOP ARCADIA MOVEMENT NOW AT STYLERUNNER.COM | @arcadia_movement
Photography: Georges Antoni.
Shot exclusively for Stylerunner.