One Society: Revolutionising London’s Activewear Scene with Sustainability and Streetwear Culture
In the heart of London, a new brand is rising, reshaping the activewear industry with a unique blend of sustainability and street culture. One Society, founded by Mona-Lisa De Greve, is challenging the norms of fast fashion while providing a refreshing alternative for fitness enthusiasts seeking not only functionality but also individuality in their gym attire. The brand’s mission goes beyond making clothes—it’s about creating a community, where fitness meets fashion, and where sustainability stands as the backbone of its ethos.
Mona-Lisa’s journey into entrepreneurship was far from traditional. “I’ve always been into fitness and working out, and I’ve always leaned towards independent brands over big corporations that mass-produce,” she reflects. “I like finding unique pieces, and I wanted to bring that same concept to gym wear.” This passion for fitness, paired with a desire to break free from the monotony of mass-produced gym attire, led her to create a brand that offers more than just clothes. One Society stands as a statement—a call for individuality, sustainability, and quality.
The activewear market has long been dominated by giants offering cookie-cutter designs in high volumes, but Mona-Lisa saw an opportunity to offer something distinct. “There’s a clear monopoly in the industry, and most people end up wearing similar clothes at the gym,” she says. “I wanted to offer pieces that stand out but still feel right for the gym. More than just creating something different, I wanted to merge that with UK culture and bring a new approach to gym clothing.”
The result is a brand that brings together the best of streetwear culture and activewear. One Society’s designs reflect UK street fashion, combining the utility needed for performance with the style and exclusivity that streetwear offers. But what truly sets the brand apart is its commitment to sustainability. “Unlike mass-produced activewear, we focus on slow fashion, using sustainable materials and limited drops to ensure quality and exclusivity,” Mona-Lisa explains. The brand’s dedication to transparency is evident not only in its sourcing but also in its interactions with customers. One Society regularly shares behind-the-scenes content on social media, building an authentic connection with its audience.
One Society’s strategy speaks to a growing demand for conscious consumerism, where fashion and fitness enthusiasts alike seek out brands that align with their values. “Our core customers are people who live an active lifestyle and appreciate UK streetwear. They value independent brands over big corporations and look for unique pieces that reflect their style,” Mona-Lisa says. “Many are also mindful of sustainability, seeking alternatives to fast fashion or simply trying to make more conscious choices.” Social media, pop-up events, and collaborations are key to reaching this community, allowing One Society to create a space where fitness, fashion, and sustainability converge.
Despite being a young brand—just two months into its first drop—One Society has already made a notable impact. “We’ve already had offers for pop-ups, giving people the chance to see and experience the products in person,” Mona-Lisa shares. “As a brand that operates mainly online without a physical store, this has been a major step in bringing One Society into real-world spaces and connecting with our community directly.”
Looking ahead, Mona-Lisa is focused on expanding One Society’s reach and continuing to build a loyal customer base. The brand’s next big move is an upcoming fashion show, where the latest pieces will be showcased for the first time. This will be followed by another limited-edition drop, a staple in the brand’s strategy to maintain exclusivity. “These upcoming events are a big step forward in building our presence and connecting with our community even more,” she says.
Mona-Lisa’s path to entrepreneurship was paved with academic and practical experience. Before launching One Society, she worked in several start-ups and pursued a Master’s in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. “These experiences all shaped my journey and helped me realize I was ready to start my own business,” she reflects. But as with most entrepreneurial stories, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. “The biggest challenge I faced in my startup journey was figuring out who to work with and how to balance everyday life with the demands of building a business,” she admits. “This was especially tough when I started, as I was also working part-time while pursuing university studies. The only time I had to focus on the business was in between other commitments, which made it difficult to maintain a balance with my personal life.”
As for the lessons she’s learned along the way, Mona-Lisa highlights the importance of building relationships early on. “One lesson I wish I knew earlier as a founder is the importance of connecting with people in the same industry before you actually start,” she says. “I began reaching out to others only after I launched, but I now realize how valuable it would have been to build relationships earlier on.”
Her advice to aspiring founders? “It’s not just about learning from others but also gaining support and motivation along the way.” These words reflect Mona-Lisa’s genuine desire to connect with and support others in the entrepreneurial space, a sentiment that is deeply embedded in One Society’s brand identity.
Looking forward, Mona-Lisa envisions an evolution in the industry, where more independent brands will thrive, and sustainability will continue to take center stage. “In the next five years, I see many brands focusing on creating specific gym garments for niche markets, catering to unique needs and preferences,” she predicts. “There will also be a shift towards more businesses moving online, with a stronger emphasis on connecting with their community through pop-ups, behind-the-scenes content, and a more engaging online presence.” She adds, “Sustainability and ethical practices will continue to be a major focus, especially in the clothing industry.”
In a market that is becoming increasingly saturated with fast fashion, One Society offers a refreshing and much-needed alternative. Through its dedication to quality, exclusivity, and sustainability, the brand is creating a new standard for what activewear can be—a space where fitness, fashion, and conscience come together. As Mona-Lisa aptly sums up her vision: “Success, to me, is about finding that sweet spot where personal happiness and professional achievements come together. It’s about waking up excited to tackle the day, feeling like I’m making a difference, and having the freedom to pursue what I love.”
One Society’s journey is just beginning, but with a foundation built on values and vision, it’s clear that this brand has the potential to inspire lasting change in the world of activewear and beyond.
Website: www.1society.co.uk
Instagram: @onesocietymarket