It's one of the most unique fashion back stories we've heard in some time: a bridal designer who has built a successful business online turning her hand to activewear.
Having focused on weddings since 2012 with her label The Flower Bride, young Wellington-based designer Kelsey Genna has developed a name with her girlish, vintage-inspired made-to-measure gowns. The not-so-obvious next step: a namesake line offering feminine pieces for fitness and play.
Launched last week, Kelsey uses colourful printed Lycra to make "fun wears for youthful women of all ages". Think bike shorts, crop tops, swimsuits, bodysuits, leggings and dresses, manufactured in Bali, in vibrant, quirky prints: leopard, candy-pink stripes and various 90s-inspired florals. Kelsey hopes the line will help encourage physical activity.
She agrees it is a total change from her bridal business. "I've been making myself these sort of things for years and finally found some time to bring the idea to life," she says. "I love doing bridal, but it's a lovely escape to work with colour and create something that I can wear too!"
