As a fat girl, I was always made to feel small for being bigger. Growing up, I was constantly trying to fit into brands that never carried my size or wearing dated styles that were made to hide my body.

I always felt especially left out of the fashion world - particularly when it came to quality fashion. I felt like I was stuck in a fashion paradox, where there were pretty much two options for myself as a plus-size consumer: fast fashion or luxury fashion (which often felt very mother-of-the-bride.) There are thousands of niche straight-sized brands, but where were the indie plus-size brands? The average dress size in the US is between a size 16 and 18...so, why was one taking the time to create CUTE, quality, accessible pieces for us?

I was tired of feeling like my style had to come at the expense of the planet or my wallet. I knew so many plus-size babes that felt the same way. Instead of waiting for brands I admired (but couldn't wear) to extend their sizing, I decided to take matters into my own hands - creating a new kind of plus-size brand. I wanted what was missing: a US-manufactured brand that made quality, on-trend pieces and focused heavily on fit. A brand that reflected the sentiment of being plus-size and proud. In September 2021, alongside my community, I launched What Lo Wants - sizes 14-32. This brand is for us, by us.