Today we’d like to introduce you to Larissa Johnson.
Hi Larissa, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Up until 2020 I was just working as a freelance Makeup artist. I started my company during the pandemic when the salon I work in was Temporarily shut down due to covid. I was so used to working day and night in the salon, I wasn’t really focused on what my passion really was. I’m a hustler by nature, so in that downtime, I was looking for something to do. I sketched my first design, and found a Seamstress that could bring my design to life. Not even a week later my vision had came to life. I posted my design just to see how it would do, God blessed it. I sold out! A few months later, I launched my bra line, (LIFTED). A few months after that, I launched my swimwear line, (CURVY SWIM). And a few months after that, I launched a fall collection, (top tier.). Everything did so well! As I started to get the hang of all of this, I was being offered contacts to partner with larger companies to model and/or to collaborate. Fast forwarding into this year, I was fortunate to Support the LGBTQIA+ community and I launched a PRIDE collection. I’ve also been able to host and be apart of a number of women-positive events!
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I have had my days. I’ve had creators block. Not being able to come up with a design for months at a time has been one of the most difficult struggles I’ve experienced. Because when I don’t work, I don’t eat. Thankfully I have multiple streams of income so during those times of stagnation I’m still able to do what needs to be done. Also, staying relevant when the trends are always changing has kept me on my toes as well.
We’ve been impressed with The Curvy Enterprise, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Curvy Enterprise is a corporation that provides services and products that enhances the everyday life of Curvy women everywhere. It is also our mission to continue to provide a platform for curvy women to look and feel beautiful inside and out. We offer plus-size clothing, extended-size essential undergarments, and plus-size swimwear, mentorship programs, creative direction, and styling.
Any big plans?
Because I love to design dresses specifically, I have been sketching wedding gowns. I decided to start my own wedding gown collection under The Curvy Enterprise. To date, I have designed 16 wedding gowns. So, to see that unfolding is very exciting!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @accordingtolarissa
- Facebook: LaRissa Johnson
