We chat with Samantha Gibson, founder of our new fave activewear brand, Gibson Girl.
Shop the latest collection and get 15% off with the code GYMTOTE15 https://gibsongirl.co.uk
WHAT'S THE STORY BEHIND GIBSON GIRL?
When I started Gibson Girl I felt that no one was delivering what I wanted to wear. Bored of wearing Nike black leggings and uncomfortable tops with sheer panels, skinny straps in unflattering colours and prints, I took on the challenge of creating my own collection that needed to not only look stylish, but actually perform.
I came across the original Gibson Girls and knew this was the name for my new brand. They were New York “It” girls of the late 19th century. Illustrated in the pages of Vogue and Harpers Bazaar, they were the first women newly empowered to enter the workplace. Lesser known early feminists, the Gibson Girls paved the way for The Suffragettes. For the first time, exercise was part of a woman’s lifestyle: cycling around Central Park and enjoying golf, the Gibson Girls always kept up their glamorous appearance. Their pioneering spirit and their equally powerful love of style is the source of our inspiration.
WHAT MAKES YOUR CLOTHES SO DIFFERENT?
I used all of the design, fabric, technical and production expertise acquired throughout my 20 years career in Womenswear. A flattering fit is at the core of the brand. Each piece is perfectly proportioned to create the most complimentary and ergonomic lines possible. Products feature highly engineered, hi-tech fabrics with 4-way stretch and recovery properties; crucial elements in creating the best-fitting, sculpting activewear. Tummies look flatter, bottoms seem to lift and waists appear to lose an inch or so. Elevating a woman’s self confidence is an integral part of the Gibson Girl ethos and what our activewear range stands for.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE PIECE FROM THE CURRENT COLLECTION?
I live in our Supercharge tights! Tough to choose a colour...I think it’d be the houndstooth print. It’s mixed with solid black which is strategically positioned to be super flattering over the bottom, hips and thighs. I also wear our Warrior Zip Thru every day! It's a signature piece for us that we rerun each season, updating it with new colours and stripes. Its so comfy, stretchy and washes and dries so quickly!
WHAT ARE YOUR GO-TO FASHION BRANDS?
My background is womenswear design, for major brands in London and New York – from Whistles to Barbour. So I’ve always loved clothes! When I’m not in Gibson Girl (which isn't often TBH!) I love the easiness of the French brands Maje, Sandro and The Kooples. On the High Street I always find things in & Other Stories and Zara.
HOW DO YOU STAY IN SHAPE?
I really mix it up. I spin for cardio, as I’m not into running, but my fave is high energy classes, like HIIT and conditioning with weights. I also love a Les Mills Combat class on a Monday morning…sets me up for the week!
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP TIPS FOR SOMEONE LOOKING TO MAKE THE LEAP TO THIER OWN BRAND?
Research your market and produce the best product / service possible.
Use every resource you can. Speak to every friend & family member that can give you advice, whether you take it or not.
Know that you have put 100% in and it’s full on hard work.
Saying that you can work flexibly and set your own hours - sometimes a Sunday morning in PJ’s can be very productive! Have the confidence to believe you are doing a great job! It can be tough, as everything feels so personal.
HOW DO YOU RELAX?
I’m not very good at that! I collapse in bed early with a boxset - but usually fall asleep half way through! Working out is really important for some headspace and positivity. But for me it’s all about a trip. Weekends away are the best. A quick email or work sesh and then I’m free to enjoy great food, wine and laughter with the people I love
WHAT 5 THINGS COULD YOU NOT LIVE WITHOUT?
My Family
Exercise
Holidays & Travel
White wine
Delicious Food
I had to add a number 6! My gym tote from Fact + Fiction. Its literally the best gym bag for women I have ever used. You'd think because its such a stylish bag it wouldn't be functional but its the best black ladies gym bag i've come across. Its great for meetings and the gym and literally never leaves my side!
