The Women Behind Kathryn Budig's Seamless Collection

Our Kathryn Budig collections are always nothing short of beautiful. This season, Kathryn was dedicated to creating gear that makes you feel empowered and beautiful, with comfortability at the forefront of our designs. It's safe to say she executed flawlessly. This never before seen seamless collection is just that; elegant, effortless, and inclusive. Inspired by neutral palettes and determined to bring back the beauty of the basics, Kathryn has curated a stunning range of colors that look enchanting on all skin tones, and cuts that flatter all body types. The goal was to create a line that felt "like a second skin," we'll let you be the judge!

Kathryn and her team started off the shoot day early, kicking it off by dousing her face in a bowl of cold water at 6:15 am, followed by a latte from her lovely wife, Kate! What more could a girl ask for? The team gathered at the Post House Inn, a coastal tavern and inn equipped with stunning natural light, a crew of beautiful women ready to model, and feel-good clothes. They spent the day playing around with shoe combinations, layering pieces, and dressing up and down these essential pieces. A dream job to say the least! We asked the members of Kathryn's crew to share a little bit about their relationship with Kathryn and their first thoughts on the collection, here's what they had to say:    

 

KATHRYN BUDIG 

KG – What inspired you to create a Seamless Collection?

There is something about the seamless construction that makes me feel good regardless of the day. It’s flattering, simple, and most importantly – comfortable. I live in seamless.

KG - What was your favorite part of your photoshoot?

Shooting with my friends! Photoshoots can be so stressful and triggering but the combination of superstar Kristen LeQuire (the photographer) and my hilarious, stunning friends made it a breeze. I love seeing women in their power.

KG - How does your new Seamless Collection make you feel when you’re wearing it?

Damn sexy, I must say.

KG – What inspired the new colors in your collection?

2020! While I’ll always love fashion and the irreverence that comes with it, I’ve been craving more comfort and simplicity. I wanted a neutral palette that would look good on all skin tones and something that could feel like a second skin.

KG - What is your favorite piece from the new collection, and why?

Oof. You know I can’t pick just one. The core collection is bonkers comfortable. It doesn’t come off my body these days, and I love mixing the chocolate and taupe pieces together. Although the ribbed leggings frame the booty *just* right, and I am always here to give my buns the spotlight!

KG – How would you style an outfit from this collection outside of a yoga class?

Any of the leggings from the collection look awesome with a vintage tee and boots. The ribbed legging in taupe has become a staple for that look, but I also think the core collection (especially mix-matched looks great under an over-sized button-down shirt.

KG – How has your fashion sense changed in the last year?

I’ve learned how to make sweatpants stylish! It’s brought out more of the New Yorker in me. Wear your sweats and put stylish sneakers and coat with them! The same is applicable for the seamless line.

KG - What’s been an important routine in your life during the last year?

Mornings are sacred in our household: my wife makes us oat milk lattes (or we go to our favorite shop, Sightsee), we tackle the NYT crossword, and take our pups for a walk-in Hampton Park.

KG - What’s your favorite way to be active lately?

Teaching and writing weekly live classes for Glo.com has reignited my yoga practice. I also do Tracy Anderson, occasionally spin and lift and set down heavy things.

KG - What are you reading?

I’m trying to find the April pick for my book club, The Inky Phoenix, so I have several titles going: Jitterbug Perfume (a classic), The Lost Apothecary, and Last Night at the Telegraph Club.

KG - What are the silver linings in your life right now?

My little, amazing family. 2020 has solidified our bond and my wife and I joke that we (including our two dogs) have fully merged into one.

KG - Who are you inspired by lately?

I’m inspired by the women involved in this project: the entire KiraGrace team, Kristen LeQuire, Betty Sweet Atkinson, our stylist Penny, my dream team models: Kate Fagan, Sam Fagan, Ashley Limehouse, and Ashley Trabue. Can’t forget all the amazing female-owned businesses that contributed to our collection/giveaway: The Post House, Hampden Clothing, Aillea, Maya Chia, Essentials by K. Marie, Sightsee, Jahde Atelier, Candice Kumai, and Asha Patel.

 

KATE FAGAN

KG – How did you first meet Kathryn Budig?

Kathryn and I met in Southern California, at the espnW Women & Sports Summit. She was there with Under Armour, teaching yoga, and I was moderating panels at the event for ESPN. The year was 2015!

KG - What was your favorite part of the photoshoot of her new Seamless Collection?

I love the natural vibe of it. Photoshoots often tend to be in front of a white backdrop, and there is a certain “look” that is trying to be achieved, whereas what we were trying to achieve with this new seamless collection is raw honesty, without manipulation. And we were blessed with some beautiful natural light.

KG - How does Kathryn’s new Seamless Collection make you feel when you’re wearing it?

Like I’m wearing nothing at all, and I mean that in the best way. I often spend too much time, when I’m wearing clothes, adjusting them, and acknowledging and processing how they’re making my body feel. This seamless collection takes away that constant meta-analysis, and it’s pretty amazing.

KG - What was your favorite piece from Kathryn’s new Collection, and why?

I’m a fan of the chocolate seamless leggings. They are my dream legging: no seams, no pinching … perfection!

KG – How would you describe your fashion sense?

Sporty streetwear.

KG - What’s been an important routine in your life during the last year?

Carving out the time, in the morning, to enjoy my coffee and do the crossword puzzle with my wife. It’s this beautiful thing to look forward to and the complete opposite of how our life worked pre-pandemic, which was alarm clocks and routine 6 am flights that one of us was trying to catch.

KG - What’s your favorite way to be active?

It used to be playing basketball, then it became running, and now I love a mixture of cardio from my Peloton and yoga from Yogaglo (where Kathryn teaches online).

KG - What are you reading?

Currently, I’m reading a novel called Luster, which came out in 2020, but I’m usually reading non-fiction.

KG - What are the silver linings in your life right now?

Walks in the neighborhood, spending 24-7 staring at our dogs, endless time with my wife. I am lucky in that there are many silver linings, which makes the simple fact that I can name silver linings a silver lining.

KG - What are your passion(s) in life?

Reading, writing, thinking – anything to get me out of my head and in that state where time passes without notice.

KG - What is one quote or piece of advice that sticks with you always?

From my dad: Keep doing the things you love with the people you love.

KG - Who are you inspired by? What empowers you?

I am constantly being inspired because there are so many people in the world thinking different thoughts and sharing their points of view, which allows me to see the world differently. More than any single person, I’m empowered by absorbing the brilliance of others and seeing the world anew, which can happen over and over again all your life -- if you’re willing to let it.

 

ALICIA EASTER - "ACE"

KG – How did you first meet Kathryn Budig?

Through my beautiful soul-sister and business partner, Jennifer Pastiloff.

KG - What was your favorite part of the photoshoot of her new Seamless Collection?

Dancing and laughing with the crew. It was so much fun getting my makeup done and the support of the team embracing my quirks, freedom to move, and humor. I was pushed out of my comfort zone to get into postures I wasn’t sure I could do, but I did them anyway. The human body, the body of a woman, whew, the prowess, we are amazing.

KG - How does Kathryn’s new Seamless Collection make you feel when you’re wearing it?

It makes me feel empowered, beautiful, sexy, strong, and brave.

KG - What was your favorite piece from Kathryn’s new Collection, and why?

The fawn set is probably my favorite if I had to choose. They are all so beautifully crafted and thoughtfully designed. The way the entire collection hugs all of my curves, sits just right, and makes me feel so strong. The colors are incredibly flattering, and I trust will look good on everyone.

KG - What’s been an important routine in your life during the last year?

Walking four miles a day no matter what, meditation, and morning prayers. Yoga is in all that I do, so that is infused.

KG - What’s your favorite way to be active?

Walking, Hiking, and Yoga Asanas.

KG - What are you reading?

The Art of War for Small Business, How Yoga Works, Radiant Rest, and looking forward to All The Colors Came Out by Kate Fagan.

KG - What are your passion(s) in life? 

My candle line, the I AM Collection, my podcast ‘What Are You Bringing?’ setting up a fund to support Motherless Daughters and Motherless Mothers, and Kids Yoga!

KG - What is one quote or piece of advice that sticks with you always?

“Don’t chase it, be it.” “Stay brave in your pursuit of joy!”

KG - Who are you inspired by? What empowers you?

First and foremost, I look to God, my mother, and teachings of yoga, reiki, and meditation. I am inspired by humans who choose every day to put one foot in front of the other and not give up. I am inspired by my own journey as an entrepreneur, teacher, daughter, sister, friend, and who I yet to become. I could have made the decision to quit on life a long time ago, but I didn’t, and for that, I will always keep God first and believe in myself to follow the path He laid out for me. I am constantly inspired by all the elements: earth, sky, fire, air, and water. I might sound a little woo, but I no longer require much to fill my cup and to be inspired. If I get to wake up to a new day, look at God, what a beautiful gift! Anything after that, dear friends, are all excellent bonuses…my work, family, friends, students, clients, and my beloved teachers.

 

ASHLEY LIMEHOUSE

KG – How did you first meet Kathryn Budig?

I Met KB in 2019 when I was putting together for my nonprofit Artisan Global. I was seeking someone to help me raise for a good cause, but mostly someone that felt connected to it , plus whom story I felt connected to. I found Kathryn online and realized she lived in my city so I reached out, she was away with her wife Kate ( also my good friend) in Ireland I believe at the time. We grabbed a coffee to talk about the fundraiser and we instantly became friends. The rest is history.

KG - What was your favorite part of the photoshoot of her new Seamless Collection?

Honestly, I have a great time any time that I’m around Kathryn, but I loved the girl power energy the entire day exuded. The location was such a smart choice to have the lived-in relaxed feel, just like the collection. Comfortable and inviting.

KG - How does Kathryn’s new Seamless Collection make you feel when you’re wearing it?

As mentioned earlier I feel extremely comfy but strong in this Seamless Collection. It pulls you in a little but not too much where you feel uncomfortable.

KG - What was your favorite piece from Kathryn’s new Collection, and why? 

Oooohh the “ribbed” pieces, hard to pick so I will say both top & bottom. They look great and feel equally good.

KG – How would you describe your fashion sense?

Simple works for me. I like creative but wearable, well made, some tailor...blazer, trousers, clean lines, neutrals usually but you know, never say never haha.

KG - What’s been an important routine in your life during the last year?

Moving my body every day in some way, walking, running, HIIT, pilates it doesn’t matter just move. And coffee but that isn’t new.

KG - What’s your favorite way to be active?

I would probably say besides Yoga, I’ve fallen in love with Pilates

KG - What are you reading?

“Maybe you should talk to someone” by Lori Gottlieb

KG - What are the silver linings in your life right now?

Knowing that nothing lasts forever. What I seek is seeking me.

KG - What are your passion(s) in life?

Serving others honestly. Wellness has always been my passion.

KG - What is one quote or piece of advice that sticks with you always?

“This too shall pass.”

KG - Who are you inspired by? What empowers you?

I'm inspired by every human that makes the decision to get up every morning and give life another shot without hesitation. Strong women have always empowered me. 

 

SAMANTHA FAGAN

KG – How did you first meet Kathryn Budig?

I met Kathryn because she is married to my cousin, Kate. I have obviously known her for a while, but we really bonded over our love of books and fashion when I moved to Charleston in May 2020.

KG - What was your favorite part of the photoshoot of her new Seamless Collection?

My favorite part of the photoshoot was seeing Kathryn at work. I’ve seen her Instagram presence and her yoga classes, but it was fun to see her really shine while shooting for a collection she feels so passionately about and has put so much work into. Also, a day with girlfriends in the sun getting your picture taken is never a bad day!

KG - What was your favorite piece from Kathryn’s new Collection, and why?

I love the core collection of seamless leggings! The waistband doesn’t roll down when you move, they’re squat-proof and they look amazing – what else do you need?!

KG – How would you describe your fashion sense?

I think I would describe my fashion sense as pretty classic. This past year I’ve really worked at building a “wardrobe capsule” that focuses on quality, timeless pieces rather than trendy, fast fashion, and am loving where it’s at so far.

KG - What’s been an important routine in your life during the last year?

Exercise and journaling. I don’t know where I would be without either of those things. Exercise has kept me grounded where I don’t have to think about anything and can get out of my own head for a bit. I put on music and just get to work, whereas journaling has helped me get in touch with how I’m feeling and why I might feel that way. It’s amazing how great you can feel after really thinking about the why and how of your feelings.

KG - What’s your favorite way to be active?

Lifting. I love the feeling of hitting new personal bests and there’s something badass about being able to lift heavyweights.

KG - What are you reading?

I’m currently reading Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo after the longest reading slump of my life. This book has been a savior and I’m already so invested in the main character, Lily.

KG - What are your passions in life?

Cooking, Reading, my family, and my friends. Traveling, which I miss so much.

KG - What is one quote or piece of advice that sticks with you always?

“Wherever you go you take yourself with you, if you see what I mean” – it’s from The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman. 

 

ASHLEY TRABUE 

KG - How does Kathryn’s new Seamless Collection make you feel when you’re wearing it?

I felt so lovingly held and supported wearing this collection! I felt put together and comfortable — the perfect no-fuss, feel-good-in-my-skin, get-shit-done kind of outfit.

KG - What was your favorite piece from Kathryn’s new Collection, and why?

Hands down the seamless pants!!! This is wild because as a shorter person, I tend to be pickiest about pants. These were great. The high waist, the texture, the cut, the fit, the muted palette. So much to love. As I moved around throughout the day, I never felt them sagging or squeezing or needing to be re-situated. I loved how I looked in them but more importantly, I love how I felt in them.

KG – How would you describe your fashion sense?

Funky, comfy, chic? My wardrobe is a healthy mix of playful, statement kind of pieces (vintage bright pink pantsuit anyone?) mixed in with more muted staples usually from thrift/vintage shops or from indie female-owned lines. I am a huge fan of dressing for my mood (first and foremost) and then for function. Most of my clothing ends up slightly paint-splattered which suits me perfectly fine.

KG - What’s your favorite way to be active?

Lately, it's been a lot of hilly neighborhood walks, solo dance parties (these are my go-to move when I’m transitioning from one task to another), at-home yoga, and roller-blading at the park!

KG - What are you reading?

In the world of fiction, I’ve been on an Octavia Butler kick lately. So far I’ve just read her stand-alone books — Kindred and Fledging. I also just finished rereading The Story Brand by Donald Miller and just started Story Genius by Lisa Cron. Reading is a huge piece of my self-care routine!

KG - What are the silver linings in your life right now?

When I think about the silver linings from spending more time at home this past year, I think of craft coffee bean delivery services. A funny and handsome spouse who loves to cook and do laundry. Afternoon baths. FaceTime with friends and family. A studio stocked with paint and paper. There is no shortage of things to be grateful for.

KG - What is one quote or piece of advice that sticks with you always?

If you need to cry, cry. Crying is part of the body’s natural stress response, and when we halt it mid-way by stifling our tears, we’re actually trapping tension and trauma in the body, and it can become complex. Crying to completion not only offers to release it actually cues the hormones related to feelings of trust and safety. Clarissa Pinkola Estés writes, “Tears are a river that takes you somewhere…Tears lift your boat off the rocks, off dry ground, carrying it downriver to someplace better.”

KG What are you passionate about?

I’m passionate about helping people, women especially, learn how to connect to their bodies and emotions in positive and nurturing ways. Because stress and emotion physically live in the body, it can be natural to want to dissociate ourselves from it, but when we’re disconnected from the body, we’re disconnected not only from the discomfort but also from delight, from healing, from creativity. And that's not at all okay. The world needs more creativity. The world needs more healing, more delight. So I'm on a mission to change that.

KG - Who are you inspired by? What empowers you?

I'm also forever inspired by nature -- the shadow and light of thunderstorms, the texture of moss, the color of morning fog over bluegrass pastures, the lichen that grows on my favorite hiking trail. All of the colors and textures that I work within my paintings have their roots in nature which is so healing to me. I also draw inspiration from the creative and spiritual work of women like Clarissa Pinkola Estes, Chani Nichols, Julia Cameron, Adrienne Maree Brown, Georgia O’Keefe, Mona Delahook, and Helen Frankenthaler. I’m empowered by the women who surround me — mentors, friends, clients, artists, thought-leaders. Women who don’t shy away from the uncomfortable parts of healing and growth but courageously claim what’s meant for them. Women who embody the change they want. Women who are soft and strong, fierce and kind. 

KRISTEN LEQUIRE

KG – How did you first meet Kathryn Budig?

We met at a dinner party at her home several years ago. When I saw her collection of books and cookbooks I knew we would be friends.

KG - What was your favorite part of the photoshoot of her new Seamless Collection?

The entire photoshoot day was my favorite part!! Everything came together so beautifully. The space where we were shooting, the sunlight, the women modeling, and of course the gorgeous new collection of clothes!

KG - How does Kathryn’s new Seamless Collection make you feel when you’re wearing it?

Comfortable. Sexy.

KG - What was your favorite piece from Kathryn’s new Collection, and why?

The seamless black sports bra is my favorite piece because it’s so versatile.

KG – How would you describe your fashion sense?

Feminine, artistic, classic.

KG - What’s your favorite way to be active?

Anything on or around the water and bike rides with my kids.

KG - What are you reading?

The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron.

KG - What are the silver linings in your life right now?

Extended periods of time at home this past year have allowed me to spend more time with my family and neighbors and deepen those relationships.

KG - What are your passion(s) in life?

My kids and my family, cooking, reading, travel.

KG - What is one quote or piece of advice that sticks with you always?

A quote by Rumi which goes something like “There is a voice that doesn’t use words. Listen.”

KG - Who are you inspired by? What empowers you?

Brave women. Bold and outspoken women inspire me. My grandmothers, my mother. RBG, Nina Simone, Dr. Stella Nyanzi, Michelle Obama, and so so many others. Knowing my daughter is watching me and learning from me is incredibly empowering and emboldening.    

BETTY SWEET

KG – How did you first meet Kathryn Budig?

I met Kathryn at her home the morning of this photoshoot. She was instantly likable (kind, gracious, and adorably sophisticated on camera). God bless friendly people. They are EVERYTHING.

KG - What was your favorite part of the photoshoot of her new Seamless Collection?

The best part of the day was when we were taking the photos downstairs at the Post House. The light was perfection (OMG the LIGHT!!!), the set was great, everyone was completely in their element. There was a moment where Kathryn and Ashley were walking up the stairs and I turned to Kristen and said: I need these leggings yesterday.

KG - How does Kathryn’s new Seamless Collection make you feel when you’re wearing it?

In one word: Silky.

KG - What was your favorite piece from Kathryn’s new Collection, and why?

The seamless black sports bra is my favorite piece because it’s so versatile...I hate to say it but practical. Teaching Kindergarten is my day-job so it’s always- “what can I sit criss-cross in comfortably?”. Evening attire is different of course but it’s sometimes difficult to transition without some carryover. 

KG – How would you describe your fashion sense?

Sexy but comfortable is my jam. And yes- it does exist.

KG - What’s your favorite way to be active?

HIIT Training at the gym. Exercise is my sanity. I tried to do at-home type workouts after the gyms shut down, but it really wasn’t cutting it. I lack self-discipline and truly *need* group classes and loud music to get motivated. And going back to work. I need a schedule!

KG - What are you reading?

I’m in-between books. I just finished The Handmaid’s Tale and I’m waiting to read The Testaments (both by Margaret Atwood, a sequel of sorts?). I’m reading Anne of Green Gables with my daughter while I wait.

KG - What are the silver linings in your life right now?

The time will change back this weekend and that is MAJOR. My friends, their humor, my happy places….silver linings are everywhere. Truly.

KG - What are your passion(s) in life?

Passions: Great conversations, binge-worthy TV, whole entire 10 hour days at the beach, language, art, music videos!!!!, public education, hardcover books, shiny things, my kids, silence, anything with coconut, hair products, and make-up….making people happy.

KG - What is one quote or piece of advice that sticks with you always?

“Don’t die in this ditch.” I absolutely love this. Know when it’s time to give up and let go. Some things just are not worth the trouble. And that is OK. 

KG - Who are you inspired by? What empowers you?

I am inspired by all the people out there speaking their truth. It is happening a lot these days but it doesn’t make it any less powerful. It takes whole lotta guts to put the truth out there. I’m so grateful that we are in a safer place, at least nationally, to do this. I hope it stays this way for my daughters as they grow up.

PENNY O'CONNOR

KG – How did you first meet Kathryn Budig?

I met Kathryn at DNA Lab Salon, I cut her wife Kate’s hair, and Olivia cuts and colored Kathryn’s hair.

KG - What was your favorite part of the photoshoot of her new Seamless Collection?

I love how comfortable the collection looks on every body type! It was such a fun experience getting to meet all the women Kathryn involved in the shoot!

KG - How does Kathryn’s new Seamless Collection make you feel when you’re wearing it?

It’s very comfortable, it doesn’t bunch in any places and stays put with every movement.

KG - What was your favorite piece from Kathryn’s new Collection, and why?

I think I loved the cheetah print bra the most, it’s cute, feels good, and has good coverage.

KG – How would you describe your fashion sense?

Comfortable and eclectic.

KG - What’s been an important routine in your life during the last year?

Starting my day with healthy meals planned.

KG - What’s your favorite way to be active?

I love to landscape/garden around the house, it’s a good workout and very satisfying. I also love to ride my bike and I practice Muay Thai.

KG - What are you reading?

Currently, some different pregnancy books because I am expecting in September.

KG - What are the silver linings in your life right now?

Having a baby with my husband, whom I have been with since high school, we are very excited to start this new journey together.

KG - What are your passion(s) in life?

I love being outside. Anything to do with nature really calls to my soul. I’m really passionate about composting, gardening, biking, hiking, swimming. I also love yoga, meditation, music, and my career. I love being a hairstylist. I love it because I love making connections with people, helping them feel good about themselves, I love the art and creativity of it, whether it be cutting, coloring, makeup, styling. All of it gives me excitement and drive.

KG - What is one quote or piece of advice that sticks with you always?

It takes courage to grow up and figure out who you really are - E.E. Cummings

It’s a quote that I ran into at a really hard point in my life. I was really young, indecisive, and let my anxiety take over my life. I felt completely lost and was just trying to figure out my purpose in life and where I belonged. I read this quote off of my positive inspiration calendar in my apartment back in Connecticut and it was right before I confirmed my move away from my home to discover who I was without anybody’s judgment holding me down. What stands out the most to me with this quote, was that courage to grow was written in bold, and that is one of my all-time favorite songs by Rebelution. I actually ended up getting it tattooed on me after that for a constant reminder, to be strong through the tough times and to have the courage to grow through the moments in life that get us down the most.

KG - Who are you inspired by? What empowers you?

I’m inspired by the woman who are confident enough to stand up to anyone. The ones who don’t feel the need to hide or suppress their feelings from judgmental people. I’m inspired by musicians who can speak their minds through their lyrics. And by the people who take the next step to make a name for themselves to make a different world. I hope one day to achieve the goals I aspire for the way Kathryn and her wife Kate have and to do.

SHOP THE KATHRYN BUDIG COLLECTION

If you liked this blog, check out our other blogs like: "10 Bold Looks from Kathryn Budig," "Bold & Beautiful: Kathryn Budig's Collection Inspiration," "Indulge: 3 Summer Recipes from Kathryn Budig", and "What is the Difference Between Yoga Pants & Leggings?."