Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Sauvigné.
Katie, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I am a yoga instructor and practitioner so a great deal of my time is spent in activewear, but I had the toughest time finding styles that were fashionable, functional, and affordable. Most brands I came across had leggings that were see-through and sagged, were incredibly overpriced, and not all that cute. I wasn’t happy with how these companies were manufacturing their products or the materials they were using. Essentially, I got tired of searching for activewear that checked all the boxes for me, so I decided to create my own!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Oh goodness no. Before I started Asana Armor, I was studying to be a clinical neuropsychologist. I had no formal fashion training. I started this company instead with the intuition of a yoga teacher and practitioner. I knew what I wanted out of an activewear company, I just needed to figure out how to make it. I also knew that I wanted to create a company with core values rooted in sustainability, a giant challenge in itself. From sourcing U.S. made, sustainable fabrics to finding and working with local Miami manufacturers, it has definitely not been an easy road. One of my biggest challenges to this day remains how to make sustainable, locally produced, quality products at an affordable price, given the competition of bigger companies with bigger footprints.
I also underestimated the number of hats I would have to wear. When I started Asana Armor, I was not only sourcing materials and managing the logistics of a new company, I was also the designer of all of the styles and their patterns. In fact, all of the patterns in the first “It’s Always Summer in Miami Collection” were designed by me, most of them photos of my favorite parts of Miami. Although definitely a new challenge for me, designing was probably my favorite part of the start-up aside from seeing the first final product.
Although it has, by far, not been a smooth road–and I expect there will be plenty more bumps along the way– it has been a rewarding one. I have learned more and worked harder than I have in my entire life and I can’t wait to see what the next year brings!
Please tell us about Asana Armor. What should we know?
Asana Armor specializes in sustainable yoga-inspired activewear. Sustainability is at the heart of what we do and it is considered in every aspect of the company, from big picture fabric sourcing and manufacturing, to details like recycled size tags and packaging that is completely recyclable or made from recycled materials. We source eco-friendly and ethically made fabrics that do not sacrifice style or feel and are always searching for innovative fabric technology that embraces sustainability practices.
We are also very conscious of our carbon footprint and how far a material has to go to get to us in Miami, FL. We try to locally source as much as possible to minimize environmental impact and form lasting business relationships with all of our suppliers. Right now, our fabric is made in the USA and even the elastic that we use is made locally here in Miami.
As a company, Asana Armor aims to lift up and support the community we are in through collaborations and volunteer efforts. We collaborate with local Miami artists to not only create really unique pieces, but support and promote the arts in Miami. You can stay updated on all of our events and volunteer activities on the events page of our website: AsanaArmor.com/events.
When it comes to our #AsanaWarriors and customers, we do our best to serve them by keeping our prices affordable. We keep our profit margins much lower than our larger business counterparts because we are striving to make sustainable products more accessible. I am hopeful for a future where more businesses embrace sustainability and support suppliers of sustainable materials to allow for more accessibility of these products.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I have been so fortunate to be surrounded by amazing, supportive friends and family. My parents have been the biggest supporters, mentors, cheerleaders, and more when it comes to my business and I have some amazing friends who go out of their way to help see Asana Armor succeed. I have also made some great connections with other local, small businesses. We have become a community working together to lift everyone up.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.AsanaArmor.com/
- Phone: (305) 912- 4881
- Email: info@AsanaArmor.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asanaarmor/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AsanaArmor/
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/AsanaArmor/
Image Credit:
Marcia Vergara took the grey background photos and the bicycle , rocks, and lifeguard stand photos. The photo of the sports bras and tops was taken by Ariana Alexander.
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