Our Roots

Livity was founded in 2001 by Isaac Nichelson, an innovative, idealistic and passionate visionary primed in the action sports apparel industry. As a child growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Isaac developed an immense appreciation for the natural world and became dedicated to its preservation. In his fashion career, Isaac was inspired by “The Design Manifesto” from Adbusters Magazine, which stated that all products and graphic communication originate with responsible design. Designers should be sensitive to the environmental and social impact of the products they bring in to the world- and Isaac took that manifesto and ran with it. He was once told in a high-profile meeting, “Isaac, I love the concept, but I am sorry to say it’s just too expensive to save the planet right now.” This turning point in Isaac’s life spawned Livity Outernational. The textile and fashion industry had nowhere to go but green.

Livity began to sell its Eco-Textiles to a wide range of brands like Levi’s, The North Face, Quiksilver and TOMS Shoes before branching out into a full-fledged apparel and accessories brand. Isaac’s vision grew organically from a wholesale textile company to clothing brand encompassing Livity Outernational apparel, and it’s luxury sister brand Outernational, which features fair trade accessories for the high-end, boutique market. Livity proves that sustainable style can be marketable, cost-effective and can truly impact our planet.

What’s in a name?
Isaac’s longtime love for Reggae music and Afro-Caribbean culture is apparent in Livity’s message, designs and name. The word “Livity” is Jamaican Patois for a free, healthy and righteous lifestyle. Outernational represents a diverse world accepting of all cultures and creeds.