Have you ever wanted to workout wearing a suit of armour, but been held back knowing it’s just not practical?
Yes? Well apparently, you’re not alone.
Hundreds of women out there would also like to feel fashionable and powerful wearing their own pair of “armour” leggings.
When clothing label Lorica launched its Kickstarter campaign to raise money for fashion leggings that feature three distinct armour designs, the response was “overwhelming”.
In less than a month, the start-up raised more than $200,000 from about 1700 backers – a mammoth effort considering its original goal to start production was $13,000 (US$10,000).
Lorica, named from the Latin word for body armour, is an “armour-inspired line of clothing designed to slay” according to its Kickstarter page.
Creator Elena Hutchinson explained on the website that her leggings’ designs were based on three real suits of armour and made from recycled plastic bottles – so they’re also good for the environment.
“Our leggings are constructed from a fabric that is 14% spandex and 86% recycled yarns derived from plastic bottles. In fact, about 20 bottles go into each pair,” she said.
Whether it was Lorica’s environmentally friendly ethos that caught consumers’ attention, the video that showed three gorgeous women dancing in the leggings, or the chance to run around feeling like a knight, something struck a chord with contributors.
There was so much interest, in fact, that Hutchinson was able to fund her next five Kickstarter goals, including manufacturing skater dresses and bodysuits with armour-like bodice detailing, plus sizing and even men’s leggings.
“Gentlemen, I’ve heard your cries for equal representation, and I am here for you,” she said.
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Hutchinson, the graphic designer and art director behind Lorica, described herself as an avid gamer in a video on the site.
“It kind of started out as a chance for geek-girls, like me, who just wanted an excuse to wear plate armour to the grocery store,” Hutchinson said.
“But as the brand has developed I’ve realised everyone has a battle to fight.
“I love bringing that power that is inherent to armour, that symbolism of ‘I’m here to win’ – I think you can bring that to every part of your day.”
Contributions of $78 (US$59) were equivalent to ordering a pair of leggings – an offer more than 1000 woman took up.
Who knew medieval-inspired clothing could be so popular? Oh wait, the makers of waist-trainers, that’s who.
Would you wear armour leggings?
