Exciting news alert! We’re absolutely thrilled to share that we’ve partnered up as official media allies with Fort Lauderdale Fashion Week. As part of this thrilling collaboration, we’re all set to showcase the incredible talent of their fashion designers right here on Stilomag.com. So, mark your calendars and keep those eyes peeled for some fabulous updates!

In our latest endeavor, we had the pleasure of conducting an email interview with Juline Gurney of fitness brand,  I AM ACTIVE WEAR. Dive into their insightful responses below

SSD: Tell me about your brand.

I AM ACTIVEWEAR lies a vision that transcends the traditional boundaries of fitness wear.

This isn’t just a brand; it’s a lifestyle revolution. We’ve reimagined the concept of activewear, crafting a line that seamlessly blends into every segment of your daily life without forcing you to choose between comfort, style, and practicality.

Imagine a wardrobe that moves with you, from the critical negotiations in the boardroom to the last, exhausting rep at the gym. I AM ACTIVEWEAR is designed to transition as fluidly as you do throughout your day. A quick change of shoes, a light adjustment of layers, and you’re not just changing outfits—you’re transforming your approach to the day’s challenges and opportunities.

But I AM ACTIVEWEAR is more than a clothing line—it’s a statement of empowerment. It serves the early risers, burning the candle at both ends to make their dreams a reality; the night owls, finding peace in the quiet of the night for their fitness journey; and the beginners, bravely taking the first step towards a more active and vibrant lifestyle. I AM ACTIVEWEAR stands as a beacon for every moment of movement, encouraging a life without limits.

I AM ACTIVEWEAR invites everyone to live in the moment, dressed for every occasion, without ever having to compromise.

SSD: When did you start designing?
May 28th, 2016, my world was shattered by the most heart-wrenching event I’ve ever faced: the loss of my beloved son, Lee. At just 32, a severe heart attack claimed his life, a tragic end to his 8-year battle with a relentless illness. This loss plunged me into a deep abyss of sorrow and despair, causing me to abandon my active lifestyle and leading to a weight gain of over 40 pounds.

In the depths of my grief, an incredibly vivid dream of Lee came to me. He stood there, serene and reassuring, telling me, “Mom, look at me, I AM okay, and it’s time for you to be okay too.” This dream marked a profound turning point in my life.  Awakening from that dream, I was filled with a renewed sense of purpose and a fierce determination to turn my life around. I embarked on a journey to reclaim my health, shed the weight, and embrace a life enriched with fitness.

Over the following 8 months, with the unwavering support of a dedicated personal trainer, I not only transformed my physique but also began to reconstruct the very fabric of my life. I dove into the world of Bikini competitions, an arena that celebrates women of all ages, and found success on multiple occasions.

As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, bringing the world to a standstill, I found myself in a reflective state. Throughout my fitness odyssey, I consistently noticed a gap in the market: workout apparel that was both functional and fashionable, suitable for a casual brunch as well as a gym session. Though I had no background in design, my resolve to fill this gap led me to seek out a designers and manufacturer who could help bring my vision to fruition.

Driven by the desire to create a brand that embodied empowerment and echoed the comforting words of my son, “I AM Okay,” I founded “I AM Activewear.” This brand is not just a tribute to my son’s memory but a beacon of motivation for anyone striving to intertwine fitness with every facet of their lives, regardless of the challenges they face.

SSD:  What inspired you to become a designer?
Though I am not a designer by trade, the vivid dream of my son Lee propelled me to collaborate with talented designers capable of transforming my visions into reality..

SSD: What’s your most memorable moment as a fashion designer?
There are two memorable moments: First, the launch of my line at an NPC Fitness competition stands out as a truly unforgettable moment. Everyone who visited my booth and experienced the quality of the materials firsthand fell in love with both the brand and the story behind it.

The second moment etched in my memory occurred last year when I showcased my brand at my debut fashion show with Fort Lauderdale Week, marking a significant milestone in my journey.

SSD: Tell me about this collection?
I’m always thrilled to discuss our collections, as we’ve curated something to cater to everyone’s taste and needs. Our lineup includes the bodysuit collection, featuring a crisscross bodysuit perfect for date nights, and the body-shaping compression suit designed to sculpt an hourglass silhouette. For those aiming for a flatter tummy, our ribbed tummy-control suit is the go-to, while the summer sexy suit celebrates those who wish to flaunt their stunning abs. The strappy back suit is tailored for individuals seeking a look that exudes strength from every angle.

Beyond these, we offer 2-3-piece suits crafted for the quintessential boss ladies and a lounging line for those leisurely days. Our print line will appeal to lovers of animal prints, offering vibrant options to express their style. And let’s not overlook our Men’s line, which includes versatile pieces suitable for both gym sessions and casual outings. With such a diverse range of lines, there’s truly something for everyone to choose from all to embrace the vibrant hues in life and let our boldness shine through.

SSD: What is the creative inspiration behind it?
The creativity inspiration behind the brand is drawn from a mother’s profound grief over the loss of her son. It’s a powerful testament to hope and transformation, weaving together a deeply personal tale of my enduring love and resilience for my son Lee. Even the logo of the brand symbolizes the final heartbeats of my son, paired with a barbell, the very instrument that guided my return to health and fitness.

SSD: Do you feel runway is a key element for fashion brands?

I see the runway as a major platform for fashion brands to both establish and underscore their unique identity. The deliberate choice of models’ the model’s walk, the music, strategic lighting, and the meticulously crafted ambiance collectively present the brand in a way that a physical store o an online presence can replicate.

Not to mention the role of media coverage is invaluable. With fashion journalists, photographers, and influencers in attendance, these events have the potential to generate significant buzz around a brand. Such positive exposure through the media can definitely a profound effect on a brand’s standing and perception in the industry.

SSD: Why FLLFW?  What made you choose to become a part of this Fort Lauderdale Fashion Stable Event?

The heart of my success lies unequivocally with their team. it’s clear that their priorities extend beyond mere profit. Their genuine concern for the designers shines through, as they are committed to our success. They go above and beyond to promote our brand, not only during the shows but in every possible avenue, they have demonstrated dedication to MY journey. It is shown in their magazine, and on social media. Lastly whenever they see you, even long after the show, they know who you are, and that speaks volume for me.