Thanks to local organizers SFMade, San Francisco’s manufacturing businesses are on the rise. Despite the high cost of living and lack of large warehouse space, local designers and makers are still finding ways to create and manufacture in our compact city. Diana Mitchell, founder of DDCC, is one of them.

In 2012 Mitchell launched a line of women’s hoodies and tunics. She’s now cutting and stitching her way into the activeware world.

"For so many women like me, working out just can’t be some boring ‘task’ – fitness has to be a positive and social experience," says Mitchell. "So I wanted to create an activewear line that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but at the same time inspires real women to get up, get out and get active in new ways.” 

Mitchell tested her new line on the streets and in the studios of San Francisco. She and fellow fitness fans stress tested the line in half marathons, flow yoga classes and racing up and down San Francisco hills. Mitchell says not only did it hold up to the ultimate tests, but it also inspired folks to get out and train more.

“I used to think it was cheesy when people said that activewear inspired them to work out, and now I totally get it. Now when I see this cute new line in my closet, I want to put them on – and once they’re on, I find myself inspired to get up and get out,” she said.

Mitchell’s Kickstarter for the Spring 2014 active line ends tonight at 8pm, so there’s still time to get in on the early action.