| About
Founded in 2004 and based in New York City, Ailin is a fashion-focused women's apparel and outerwear brand designed for accomplished climbers, surfers, skiers, riders, runners, yogis and explorers. Influenced by personal style, sustainability and technical performance, Ailin's unique designs symbolize a progressive blend of fashion and function.
Ailin is dedicated to the ongoing development of sustainability and living with intentionality. This includes the integration of eco-friendly fabrics, manufacturing, packaging, distribution, and consumer end-use. The company understands that their customer's dynamic, active lifestyles and individual purchasing habits are influenced by sustainability, and Ailin products directly reflect these values.
Pronounced "eye-lean" and translated as 'compassion for nature,' the name was first given to founder Erin Bell while teaching English in Guangzhou, China. While attending a speaking engagement discussing ethical business practices led by the Dalai Lama, Bell was moved by the point of views of keynote speaker, entrepreneur and environmentalist, Paul Hawken. Specific messages about the eroding eco-system and tactful business practices were profound, and when combined with Bell's experience studying the power of intention, meaning what you say and doing what you mean, these are the two most significant inspirations behind Ailin. "Intentionality is an essential catalyst for living a positive existence."
Bell's design concepts come from an appreciation of functional fashion, eco-friendly development, and end-use experiences; including extended climbing and surfing travels throughout Southeast Asia, Russia, South America, North America and Europe. She has been practicing yoga since 1998.
While examining the varied amounts of products consumers purchase towards different aspects of their lives, whether commuting to the office or out bouldering with friends, Bell wanted to offer consumers an option to lessen their consumption by designing versatile clothing without sacrificing comfort or style. In doing so Ailin hopes to raise awareness about sustainable purchasing habits through intentionality, and consumers can feel confident that their single Ailin purchase will offer adaptable style and less consumption. |
