After instantly falling in love with our pair of Mila.J leggings, we were intrigued to meet and find out more about creator Samantha Broughton’s ultra-cool, comfortable and inspiring new clothing brand.
Can you describe how Mila J & Co first came about and where the idea came from?
It was during one of my thinky sessions just after new year 2018. The combination of thoughts that came together were around Mila; her education, how can I make use of this time right now for her, ecommerce and finding something souful and holistic to align with all these factors.
The business is about inspiring others, whether it be to take up yoga or an activity, about feeling part of a community of like-mindedness, about feeling good, finding joy/further meaning in the designs, inspiring entrepreneurship….its about a meeting of the generations and looking ahead and getting ahead.
So my thoughts were; “imagine if I could set up a small business with Mila, for Mila, but how do I make it fun? What will resonate?” After I asked that question, it all came out in a flow of ideas that sparked to life.
All the products are named after Mila friends, hence the name Mila J & Co… Mila was instantly engaged. Because everything has a name from Milas friend base, it has created a dynamic of personalities within the clothing. It feels special.
Can you tell us a bit about your background?
I grew up in the north of England. I think the biggest things I learned when I was growing up, was from my parents, just simply by watching them and seeing them; dream first, then action and achieve, they always found a way.
Schooling didn’t really offer me much in terms of the all-rounded education, I couldn’t wait to leave, I realise now that it didn’t inspire me at all. I became an avid learner when I left school and I absorbed the world as I went. If I wanted to do something, then I either went on a course or bought a book (there was no internet then!). You can still find me with my headphones on in a webinar or listening to audible in the car!
My main career has been at sea, on board Super Yachts. I have been lucky to have been surrounded by the worlds most successful entrepreneurs – watching them work, listening to them speak and seeing their success has inspired me forever!
What does Mila J & Co mean to you?
Ultimately it’s an adventure… a place to learn and grow and experience.
Describe Mila J & Co in 3 words.
Soulful, Sacred, Special.
Where are your clothes made and where do you source the material?
Our clothes are sourced and made in Eastern Europe. Our bestsellers are by far the legging range. They are 82% polyester/18% spandex. The Material has a four-way stretch, which means fabric stretches and recovers on the cross and lengthwise grains. They are made with a smooth, comfortable microfiber yarn and raised waistband which creates a super comfy legging, which everyone comments on.
All leggings are precision-cut and hand-sewn after printing.
Do you think the style of yoga/active wear has changed over the last few years?
I think activewear has changed quite a lot. A lot more thought is going into the design and styles especially the comfort factor. Activewear has also seen an increase in popularity in that a lot of people now wear it throughout the day whether they are working out or not. One customer mentioned she just throws on a white shirt and some smart mules with our yoga pants! We are living in a time where anything goes.
How will people benefit from using your clothing?
Ultimately our clothing is all about empowerment, wearing something that feels good, makes us feel good and the more people out there feeling good, the better! Taking it one step further our ‘wear the magic’ campaign reiterates the belief to channel the power of sacred geometry. Symbols are so powerful and beautiful when brought together with our intentions.
What brands/type of yoga/activewear were you using before you created Mila J & Co?
I have had so many different brands, of course. we always can find space for new yoga leggings in our lives! I think my oldest most worn out pair are from ‘I love SIA’ I like smaller brands as not everyone is wearing them. I think that is why I love ours too..they are made as you order! Pretty unique and utterly special.
Which pair of Mila J’s could you not live without?
I get spoilt obviously but the pair I love at the moment are the GRACE leggings. One of the most popular sold has been the INDIA BLUES without a doubt, with MARGO close behind. We have some new designs coming out soon as Mila really wants a pair named after me! (which is so lovely!)
What are the future plans for Mila J?
I hope it twists and turns and takes us on a journey that is going to expand our knowledge and feed our souls. I want it to become something Mila remembers from her childhood, something familiar, and something that is hers to nurture. I hope it grows with her and ultimately, I would like her to pass on her knowledge and help others create dreams and achieve projects. I believe we are all here to pass on what we learn, so that we can make someone else’s journey a little easier.
I honestly believe that essentially everyone and everything is a reflection of everyone and everything else – so we must all help each other in any way we can.
Click here to view all the beautiful Mila.J leggings and clothing range.