Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristy Schireson.
Hi Kristy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey in the fashion industry has been an exhilarating ride, brimming with twists, turns, and unforgettable moments that have sculpted me into the person I am today. Finally, finding myself exactly where I’ve always dreamt and wanted to be is an indescribable feeling—one that required me to navigate through doubts, insecurities, and challenges. But looking beyond those hurdles and seeing my dreams come to life fills me with awe and gratitude.
My love affair with fashion began during my college years at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM), where I graduated with a degree in fashion design. Armed with passion and creativity, I dove headfirst into the industry, launching my own bikini line called Guy Candy Swimwear. It was a thrilling success until a devastating accident forced me to pivot away from swimwear design.
But as they say, when one door closes, another opens. I transitioned into roles in retail and styling, honing my skills and expanding my network in the fashion world. Life took me on unexpected paths—I got married, had two beautiful daughters, and eventually went through a divorce, becoming a single mom trying to balance it all.
In the midst of the chaos, I realized that my true passion lay in dressing my little girls and creating unforgettable fashion moments for them. With my daughter Elle as my inspiration, I took a leap of faith and founded Elle from LA. It was a risk, especially when everyone around me urged me to stick to a traditional job for stability. But I knew I had to follow my heart and be present for my girls.
Starting out, I sourced kids’ clothing from wholesalers and launched an online store. It was challenging navigating the world of e-commerce and digital marketing, but I persevered. Then came a game-changing idea: a mobile boutique. I stumbled upon Hustle Trucks in LA—a company that specializes in mobile retail spaces—and knew I had found my answer. Renting a mobile store for trial runs, I fell in love with the freedom and flexibility it offered.
With the support of Hammerdown Studio, who helped transform a FedEx Step Van into my dream mobile boutique, Elle from LA was ready to hit the road. Once we hit the streets, the response to our truck concept was overwhelmingly positive, and invitations to participate in events started pouring in. Being present in vibrant communities allowed us to connect with fellow parents, exchange stories, and become deeply ingrained in the fabric of the community. I find immense joy in meeting new people, hearing their thoughts on our products, and embracing the unpredictability of each day—it’s what keeps me fueled with excitement and anticipation.
My mission with Elle from LA is to empower kids with confidence, comfort, and style in clothes they adore. Whether it’s coordinating sibling outfits for those sweet photo moments or curating looks for special occasions, I aim to create memories that last a lifetime. After all, who wouldn’t want to reminisce over childhood photos and say, “OMG, I remember that outfit and how I felt in it as a kid”?
Responding to numerous requests to expand our offerings, we’ve gradually begun building our women’s collection to complement our kids’ line perfectly. So, you can effortlessly create coordinated family photos in style, ensuring everyone looks their best for special occasions like your child’s birthday party or simply for a fun mommy-and-me look.
Elle from LA is just beginning its journey, and I’m eagerly anticipating where this adventure will take us. Every opportunity that comes our way fills me with excitement and gratitude. The joy I feel when a customer shares how much they love their purchase or when they see the delight in their child’s eyes as they wear their new outfit brings me immense happiness. I’m certain that choosing this path was the right decision for me, and I’m grateful for every moment of this fulfilling journey.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Running Elle From LA has its share of challenges, particularly in navigating social media and advertising. I’ve faced issues like Instagram hiding my profile and struggled to find the right approach. Surprisingly, platforms like Pinterest have brought unexpected success, making one of my dresses go viral. Yet, it’s often like stumbling in the dark, trying to figure out where to focus.
I’ve tried hiring media companies, but their impersonal touch didn’t align with my vision. I want Elle From LA to be a trusted friend, offering genuine advice on fashion and style.
Ensuring product quality is another hurdle. It’s disheartening when a purchase doesn’t meet expectations. I meticulously vet each product to maintain our standards.
Managing everything solo, from bookkeeping to taxes, can be overwhelming. There are moments of uncertainty, especially during slow sales periods.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My expertise lies in styling and creating looks that resonate with each individual. Customers rely on me not only for fashion advice but also for guidance on how to wear outfits with confidence. It’s more than just putting together clothes—it’s about helping people feel good and look their best. With a keen eye for what complements different body types, I provide a personalized experience that goes beyond the surface. It’s about connecting on a one-on-one level, understanding each person’s unique preferences, and empowering them to express themselves through their style.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I’ve learned that you never know who you might meet or how they can help you on your journey. In LA, it often feels like everyone is hesitant to reach out and connect, but simple interactions can lead to amazing opportunities. I make it a point to engage with people wherever I go, whether it’s chatting with the barista or striking up a conversation with a stranger in line. I believe in the power of human connection and being open to new opportunities. Social media is another valuable tool for networking—I’ve found mentors and collaborators by simply sending a DM and asking questions. There are countless ways to connect; the key is to remain open and receptive to the possibilities that come your way.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.EllefromLA.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellefromla/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ellefromla
Image Credits
Angel Osorio Photography, Jet Luna
