Today we’d like to introduce you to Fat.
Hi Fat., we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m a designer, seamstress, and the owner of FITTED. by Fat. The idea of starting a business didn’t cross my mind until late 2019, but even then it was simply an idea without any plans or actions behind it. I was more focused on college and my social life at the time. Fast forward to May 2021. I was scrolling on TikTok, and I saw a pair of bandana shorts. I thought the colorway and the patchwork was dope and had the idea of applying the same concept onto a tote bag. I went to Walmart, bought some bandanas, looked up how to make a tote on Youtube, and went from there. I shared my results with some of my line sisters, and they liked it and asked me to make some for them in different colorways. This moment really gave me the confidence to keep going and to expand my creativity with it.
Fast forward again to September 2021, I broke up with my first love. I acknowledged that I lost myself in this relationship, and I began to feel empowered to pour into myself. I impulsively decided that I wanted to start my business. I was seeing the angel numbers 1010 frequently at the time, which represent new beginnings. I ended up launching my business on October 10th, 2021. Mind you, this was a two-week time period between this decision and the actual launch, so I really threw myself into this entrepreneurship role.
Valentine’s Day 2022, I launched my first collection, The LOVERBOY Collection, which is inspired by my relationship and breakup with my first love. The story behind my collection is on my Instagram under Reels (@fittedbyfat)
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s been a balance of ups and downs while operating my business. Most of the struggles consisted of me being in my own way. Like dealing with mental health issues, healing from my last relationship, grieving, trying to balance being a full-time college student, working two jobs, and being heavily involved in organizations. It was a lot in the moment, but it was all part of the process for my character development and the growth of my brand. I’m learning more and more about how to organize my business so that it’s compatible with my lifestyle, while remaining productive. I’m one person doing everything, so I’d hate for my business to start running me and to become overwhelming. That takes the joy out of it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
FITTED. By fat houses unique, one-of-one handmade items crafted by designer and seamstress FAT. These unique items are created for trendsetters who appreciate quality, attention to detail, and art.
I’m more known for totes, but I’m definitely ready to expand my creativity into clothing and different styles of accessories. I feel like I haven’t milked all the potential for my totes yet. I’m proud of myself for sticking to my vision and my own style.
I’ve launched three collections/projects this year.
The LOVERBOY Collection was launched on Valentine’s Day 2022. The LOVERBOY Collection is inspired by my relationship and breakup with my first love. This collection consists of The LOVERBOY Tote, The Toxic Chocolate mini tote, and the Mushie Plushie. You can watch the story behind my collection on my Instagram Reels (LOVERBOY STORY PT. 1 & PT. 2)
The Butterfly Effect Collection was launched on April 10, 2022. This was a collaboration with my friend Giovanni Thompson and was inspired by his poetry book “INCOGNITO”. The Butterfly Collection symbolizes transformation — a shift in confidence, walking in your purpose and allowing yourself to flourish. This collection consists of three totes, The Metamorphosis Tote, The Monarch Mini Tote, and The Incognito Tote. You can watch the BFE Collection Q&A on YouTube @fittedbyfat.
FITTED. BY YOU is my custom tote project, where I allow my customers to take on the designer role to customize their own tote. They can choose from 26 colors and three tote styles.
All of my totes are custom, 1-of-1, and reversible.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My entire circle played a role in my success within my personal life and my business. I have to give the most credit to my parents. They bought my first two sewing machines and they’re constantly making sure I’m set up for success, as well as putting me in a position to where I can focus on building a foundation for myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.fittedbyfat.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fittedbyfat/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@fittedbyfat/
- Other: https://linktr.ee/fittedbyfat
Image Credits
Butterfly Effect Collection Graphics by @gzigned on Instagram
