Today we’d like to introduce you to Constance Henderson.
Constance, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I created Bougie Chic as a way to represent the urban curvy hustler in the fashion industry!
To say the least, fashion has always been a huge part of my life. But growing up, a career in fashion didn’t seem to be realistic. So, I decided no matter where I worked I would just be the most fly. Landing my first job as an office aide at 14 years old, I received an intro business 101. It was awesome, I was a natural and it means I got to dress up a lot!
This paved the way for me to get opportunities in Corporate America. Which in addition to my education, it provided mentoring opportunities that developed my skills in business and also tailored my style. I learned a great deal about diversity, professionally conducting business and gave me a love for the chic yet sexiness of business attire.
As a fashion-forward curvy girl, I struggled with my options at the commercial vendors. I often found myself trying to piece together looks, spending hours on hours in malls; and honestly crying in fitting rooms because I would grow so frustrated. I felt that though I loved my body, society was trying to force me to conform to a standard. But I wasn’t having it and I was determined to make a change.
I started doing research on the fashion industry but specifically plus size demands; and learned that it wasn’t just me that was struggling! From here, I knew I was on to something and within a month, I began forming my brand and boutique online.
Has it been a smooth road?
Whew, chile… No! But it’s absolutely worth it!
Starting out as a new business owner there’s always the unexpected. All of the things you never considered while you were dreaming of a perfect dream! My advice would be to focus on YOUR journey, don’t compare your MAGIC to anyone else and to always plan your execution!
We’d love to hear more about Bougie Chic.
We are an exclusive urban boutique for curvy women!
Each of our pieces is selected with our customers and also, myself as a curvy girl in mind! I choose quality over quantity, in addition to considering the way we like things to fit/flatter our shapes, how versatile each piece is and it’s exclusivity.
We’ve become known for being an urban classy brand and I love that! I am so proud that as I head into year three of business the boutique is finally getting the attention it deserves.
As the CEO, I expect Bougie Chic to be here forever! I’ve begun an education in the fashion and creating my own line activewear brand “Bougie Hustle” to promote body positivity. We will be collaborating more, hosting a Winter Fashion Show/POP Up Shop and we are currently planning a few community initiatives for the Holidays!
Which women have inspired you in your life?
I grew up on the west side of San Bernardino and regularly visited South Central, L.A; and from this, I was blessed to be exposed to urban fashion and hip-hop culture, at its best! I came up in the 90’s when Gold Bamboo earrings (at least two pairs), graphic tees, distressed denim, and Cazel glasses were a thing!
I was so fascinated by it and to top it off, my mom was apart of that culture! She had all the style and possessed the parts that money couldn’t buy; just enough Bouginess, very well loved, she knew all the hip-hop lingo and had swag to be able to combine it all! But most importantly, she was strong and always handled her business!
I have inspired all women because we all have amazing stories but I personally know my mothers. Without a doubt, her life and her teachings to me have inspired me the most!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.bougiechic.shop
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @bougiechic.boutique
- Facebook: @bougiechicllc
Image Credit:
Jelani Lockert – Instagram @jelanitshotthis
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
