We exist to motivate women of color to live healthy, active lifestyles by providing cultural athletic apparel.
Moms on a Mission
Realizing that healthy lifestyles have a great importance in our psychological and physical wellness, Kia Phillips and Nekol Gaskins realized there was a void in the athleisure apparel market for socially conscious women and working mothers. “There were few images of women that looked like us in the market, and there were few designs that represented our culture and heritage”. So, in the spirit of creation these Queens decided to embark on a journey birthing their own inspirational athleisure brand Glamourina.
With a mission to service an underrepresented market of diverse women of all shapes, sizes, and hues, “We want to rewrite the health and fitness narrative to include women who look like us. Women come in all different shades, shapes, colors, and countries. It is time to start seeing these images reflected in the brands that we buy, wear, and support.”
What made you decide to go into this business
We decided to go into this business for two reasons. First, we wanted to create culturally inspired activewear that would motivate women of color to live healthy active lifestyles. We know that when you look good on the outside, you feel good on the inside and by wearing our apparel we hope that Black women would be encouraged to workout or at least be mindful of how they are taking care of themselves.
Secondly, we were tired of not seeing women that look like us represented in fitness ads on television and in magazines. Until now our place as Black women in the activewear market has almost been non existent, and so we wanted to change that narrative of what an active woman looks like by showcasing active Black women of different skin tones, shapes and sizes.
What can our readers do to support your business
If readers are not already doing so, they can support our business by purchasing our apparel and spreading the word about Glamourina. They can also continue to support other Black owned businesses because supporting Black owned businesses is crucial to the financial growth and overall well being of the Black community.
Whats your vision for the business in the next 5 years
In the next 5 years, we see Glamourina growing and becoming a global activewear brand that operates with integrity. Glamourina is known for our high quality apparel and spectacular customer service and we intend to continue to uphold that reputation. We also plan to extend our activewear offerings in order to be a one-stop-shop for all activewear needs.
About The Owners
Kia Phillips was born in Princeton, WV to an educator mother and military father. Being in a military family Kia grew up in many different cities, but eventually settled in Hagerstown, MD where she currently resides. Kia graduated from the University of Maryland in 2009 with two degrees, one in Sociology and the second in African American studies. After teaching preschool for over 6 years, Kia eventually changed careers and became a certified personal trainer, where she has been able to help people through her love of fitness and nutritional education.
Nekol Gaskins was born and raised in Washington, DC. She is a visual artist, designer and advocate for women of color entrepreneurs. Since childhood, Nekol has been altering her own clothing to fit her liking and later on sew together her own collection of party wear for women. Being drawn to fashion and the arts at such a young age, Nekol always wanted to be involved in the fashion industry. After high school, Nekol went on to receive degrees in both Graphic Design and Psychology. Nekol worked as a Graphic Designer for a few years prior to the formation of Glamourina activewear. Nekol is currently working as a freelance artist focusing on portraiture alongside day-to-day Glamourina operations.
