Like many women, I have a passion for fashion. It has not always been that way....it took me years to find clothing that would fit my body - my curves and muscles and height (at 5"2', I have some challenges with most pants). Clothing is part of us, it helps us express who we are and it helps us prepare to face the World. Almost like armor or an artist's canvas, our clothing tells a story about us and allows us to be creative and artistic in our own life. So, I naturally gravitate to clothing lines that bring a unique twist to my wardrobe or work for my body. XES Revolution is that kind of brand - focused on creating denim and other pieces for women who are shorter than the average but who still love the latest styles and trends. What is so cool about XES is that it was started by a fellow mom who wanted to do something different and unique for petite women.
Please let me introduce you to Kamiyla Bell of XES Revolution. I have known Kami for years - she is strong, focused and passionate! When I heard she was launching a clothing line, I knew it was going to be amazing...and I have to say, I am a big fan of her pieces. The denim is soft and fits perfectly (without having to take it to the dry cleaner to shorten). The shirts and jackets are edgy and fun without being too crazy. I love seeing brands like this succeed, and I hope you all get a chance to check out this amazing line! As for Kami, I wanted to know how she started XES Revolution and how sheis balancing a fashion line while being a mom. Here is what she had to say.....
Tell me about XES Revolution? What kind of products do you design and sell and who are you designing for?
XES Revolution is a group of women who are confident, chic, edgy, with a hint of coziness. They tackle life with every intent to make a purpose. XES Revolution is a brand that gives back to women in a way that I struggled with before jumping into the design world, finding my size and feeling amazing in it. I am a full collection of jeans, tee-shirts, dresses, skirts, and jackets ranging from 22 or XXS all the way to 30 or XXL. My brand does not exclude anyone as a designer, I just choose to focus on the smaller fit.
What inspired you to start XES Revolution? Did you work in fashion before or did you identify a market that was not being met by existing denim companies?
My inspiration for XES Revolution came from my own journey with finding clothes that fit. Being a mother of two and still not obtaining the curves I thought I would after carrying two babies lead me on this journey of creating my own clothing line. Having my degree in Interior Design gave me an eye for designing things. I always loved fashion and that love for fashion brought me to creating something that was not met by existing denim companies.
How do you balance being a mother, a designer, and a business owner?
Having to juggle motherhood, being a designer, and a business owner does not come easy. I do believe in the saying “It takes a village.” I have a partner who is unbelievably supportive and helps me balance these moments - I need to be able to take care of my business as well as being a mother to my children. Now that my boys are a bit older, I can give them time restrictions when mommy is working and they try to give me that time. I love being a mom but I will say starting my own business is almost like having another baby all over again.
When you have downtime, what do you love to do with your family?
Downtime in my house is popcorn and movie night, time at the pool, or even heading down to Lego Land or Disney land. Sometimes the iPad tries to take over but honestly, we try to get out and enjoy outside as much as we can as a family.
What advice would you give to women looking to start a business and/or start a fashion line?
Stay focused on your goals, nothing is easy. Never give up on your passion and as my mom would say, "if you fall or fail, get back up and try again."
Check out all of the great fashions from XES Revolution at https://xesrevolution.com/.
