Lorna Jane Clarkson: The Fitness Instructor Who Turned Frustration Into a Global Brand

Before “activewear” was a thing, she was already building it from scratch.

It Started With Scissors and a Swimsuit

Back in 1986, Lorna was running fitness classes in Brisbane. She hated the gym clothes on offer cheap fabric, no shape, zero style. So she grabbed a pair of scissors and cut up her swimsuit to make something better. She wore her new design to class. Her clients noticed. After every session, someone would ask, “Where can I get that?”

That was the lightbulb moment.

From Side Hustle to First Store

By 1989, she quit her day job and opened the first Lorna Jane store. The big retailers didn’t get it. One placed her collection in the swimwear aisle. That’s when she knew she needed her own space somewhere that made women feel strong, confident, and stylish.

She didn’t wait for permission. She just built it.

Creating the Activewear Movement

Lorna’s gear wasn’t just for the gym. It looked good, felt good, and fit real life. Her bold designs made women feel proud to wear workout clothes outside the studio. She turned activewear into everyday wear, and that mindset created a whole new lifestyle category.

She didn’t follow trends. She built them.

Not Just a Brand. A Business Powerhouse.

Lorna Jane is now one of Australia’s most awarded fashion brands. Clarkson’s taken home:

• 14 RAQ Fashion Design Awards

• BRW Retailer of the Year

• Marie Claire’s Reader Choice for Best Activewear

• The Most Intriguing Entrepreneur Award from Goldman Sachs USA

She’s also written seven books, launched a podcast, and pushed hard into sustainability leading efforts to change how clothes are made and recycled in the country.

Built on Grit and Vision

What sets Lorna apart? She didn’t just fill a gap. She created a movement. One store turned into a global brand. One swimsuit became a category. And one frustrated fitness instructor became one of the most influential entrepreneurs in Australian fashion.

She didn’t wait. She built her own lane and owned it.

Image Credit: https://digitalmag.theceomagazine.com/