Meet the Sparks Duo: From Zero Fashion Knowledge to a Golden Glow in Activewear
Alex and Maya (no, not a typo – Sarabe Chan and Moe Thitsa) kicked off an activewear brand called Sparks in November, last year. Guess what? Those two had zero background in fashion or retail. They basically graduated from a fast‑food kitchen to sweat‑swept studios.
How Did the Spark Begin?
They started an education venture together in Yangon, which was racked up by a buy‑out. While hanging out at a yoga/pilates studio next door, they decided they needed to own their health far beyond “just Googling a quick stretch.”
“We were both lazy to the point we couldn’t even get off our couches, so staying motivated was a dragging exercise. The turning point? Stylish activewear might as well be the gift‐wrapped superhero cape we all secretly crave,” Sarabe says.
Go‑Good Warriors: The Mission Behind Sparks
- Core Motto: “Do good, live good, feel good” via charity and sports.
- Prices: $53–$81. Yeah, you can budget for style and give back.
- Charity Share: 5 % of net profits runs into a cause of the customer’s choosing – tree‑planting in Myanmar, schooling kids in rural Nepal, or sports‑empowerment sessions for refugees in Hong Kong.
“We hand‑pick NGOs that are on the ground, not just file‑fillers. That way we can see the trees grow and hearing those kids rise.
Impact & Future Plans
“With growth, more charities get a slice of the pie. Plus, we’ll shine a spotlight on problems close to home and how we can make a real difference,” Sarabe explains.
Asian Bodies, Western Sizing, Earth‑loving Design
They understand that a better fit is part of the fun. They aim for versatile designs that snug up to Asian bodies, with sizes from XS to XXL (yeah, even that extra‑massive athleisure hoodie, por favor).
- Customer Feedback Loop: Considers comfort level, durability, functionality in all temperatures before placing an item on the website.
- Enter the Sparks‑Luxe – the sanctuary of silky-soft, supportive fabric. They teamed up with lingerie experts to nail that balance of “good vibes” in every stitch, and used 3‑D knitting to keep seams that feel like a whisper.
Why Testing Is a Big Deal
“We spiraled through rounds of product testing – it’s a marathon, not a sprint. And every time new ambassadors or design partners step in, the product starts feeling fresher.”
The Pop Culture Edge: Athleisure in the East
“We had to tackle the fact that actually wearing workout gear as casual wear is still a rebellious act in many Asian communities,” Sarabe laughs.
Solution? They collab with fashion bloggers and ambassadors who spill the tea on Instagram about styling athleisure like a normal Saturday outfit. Think mid‑night hoodie plus sun‑roof leggings and a dash of sneakers.
Beyond the Couch
Moe and I chat constantly about keeping “sparks” alive. The term means everything that gives your life a little extra zing – maybe a local yoga meet‑up, or a spontaneous trekking adventure.
The more you mix up your routine, the more life feels like fireworks. That’s the core of Sparks – ignite, exercise, nurture, feel good.
Top 3 picks from Sparks
1. Very high rise super
Designed With Your Body in Mind
Is your style just a bit off‑center? This product was crafted specifically for Asian bodies, so you don’t have to worry about fit at all.
High‑Waist Perfection
- Super‑high waist line that stretches your silhouette into a seamless, elongated masterpiece.
- Fits like a glove, with just the right amount of lift for those climbing the fitness ladder.
Seamless Support for Every Move
Inseam seams engineered for the long run: power‑walking, kick‑boxing, you name it. No more wobbling, just steady, supportive comfort.
2. Butter leggings
Yoga‑Ready Leggings
Feel the buttery softness—the name is no accident. These leggings hug you like a gentle breeze, with barely any stitching to snag or rub. That means no awkward seams when you flow or pose—pure comfort every step.
Color Palette
- Pastel shades: baby pink, mint, and soft lavender
- Bright, bold tones: coral, jade, and electric teal
Whether you prefer a subtle, dreamy vibe or want to splash some vivid color onto your mat, these leggings have got you covered.
3. Luxe-rib collection
Say Goodbye to Seams in Your Workout Wardrobe
Ever felt that annoying seam nagging at the back of your leg while you’re doing a high‑intensity cardio session or a jump‑squat? 3‑D knitting is the secret sauce that keeps that seam out of the way. Think of it as a smooth, ribbed knit that hugs your body like a second skin—no seams, no distractions, just pure athletic freedom.
Why 3‑D Knitting is a Game‑Changer
- Seam‑free comfort: no pinched fabric or fabric pockets to catch your breath.
- Performance‑fitted: the three‑dimensional knit molds to your shape, giving support just where you need it.
- Durability: withstands the biggest sweat sessions without losing shape.
Swedish Flair: Blue & Lavender Bestsellers
Looking for a fresh pop of color? The Swedish blue and lavender shades are flying off the shelves. They’re light, vibrant, and perfect for keeping you cool under pressure—plus, they look fantastic in the picture books of your fitness app.
Where to Try Them On
- Barre 2 Barre – For a graceful approach to strength and flexibility.
- Absolute Cycle – A great spot if you’re after high‑impact cardio gear.
- Boom – Known for its upbeat vibe and inclusive sizing.
- Online at www.sparks-asia.com – Browse and cart with confidence.
Need More Inspiration?
Want to stay ahead of the fashion curve while keeping performance on top? Check out the roundup on 5 best activewear brands you need in 2021 (that are not Lululemon!). It’s a quick dive into the latest trends with a splash of wit and good vibes.
So, next workout? Gear up with 3‑D knitted gear, style it with Swedish colors, and feel like you’re the star of your own fitness show—seamlessly stylish, comfortably functional.
