Who are we?
The idea for olessa began one sunny afternoon in a Sydney backyard, when sisters Michelle and Stephanie realised how impossible it was to find activewear that wasn’t made of plastic. In a world saturated with synthetics, they wanted something better for their bodies, kinder to the planet, and still cute enough to fit their on-trend everyday style.
When nothing out there fit their values they figured the problem probably wasn't just theirs. If they couldn't find it, chances are no one could - so they made it themselves: cute, comfy, better for the planet activewear.
Designed to support you as you sweat it out in the gym but also to move with real life. From school runs to coffee dates, Pilates to errands, they wanted pieces that followed them through the day effortlessly.
What do we stand for?
At olessa, we stand for comfort that cares — for your skin, your movement, and the materials you put on your body. We believe activewear should be made with intention, using mostly natural fibres, considered design, and as little plastic as possible. We stand for pieces that perform, feel incredible, and fit real life, created by two sisters who simply wanted something better — and decided to make it themselves
Made with over 85% less plastic than traditional activewear, and created with a clear mission to minimise our reliance on synthetics. Together, we’re building a future where movement leaves a lighter footprint.
The science behind our Tanboocel® fabric
Predominantly our activewear is thoughtfully crafted from our signature fabric, Tanboocel®, an organically grown, refined bamboo fibre made using an advanced, low-impact, closed-loop system. Chosen for its remarkable softness, breathability, and skin-kind properties, Tanboocel™ allows your body to move freely.
While bamboo remains at the heart of what we do, we will mindfully combine it with other fibers or utilise other skin and planet friendly fabrics that enhances each garment’s unique performance requirements - creating activewear that feels good for your body and is gentle on the planet.
To learn more about our fabrics visit our FAQ's
Why we favour Tanboocel Bamboo?
Better for your body
Your skin deserves more than plastic. Traditional activewear is often composed entirely of synthetic fibers that can trap heat and irritate the skin. Tanboocel® bamboo fiber is naturally hypoallergenic and highly breathable—crafted to minimize the presence of harsh synthetics that can lead to skin irritation. It supports your body’s natural rhythm, allowing it to move, breathe, and recover in harmony.
Better for the planet
Born from nature, not oil. Tanboocel® is derived from rapidly renewable bamboo through a closed-loop process that reuses water and recycles solvents. By prioritizing plant-based fibers over petroleum-based synthetics, we significantly reduce microplastic shedding and create garments that return to the earth far more kindly at the end of their life. When you choose OLESSA, you’re choosing high-performance activewear with a lighter footprint.
Better for performance
True performance begins with comfort that lasts. The natural properties of Tanboocel® draw moisture away from the skin, allowing it to evaporate quickly and regulate temperature effortlessly. Soft yet resilient, our fabric moves fluidly with your body, reducing friction and staying fresh longer. Performance you can feel—powered by nature.