Chismeando with my Comadre—A weekly interview blog series focused on meeting motivating creative female entrepreneurs as a source of inspiration for women looking to fulfill their dreams.
We hope that through these interviews, you find the same dose of inspiration each woman found to
just start and follow your dreams!
On today’s post, we bring you Paulina Herrera of Paulina Clothing,
a go-getter making a difference in how others see themselves through her art and fashion designs.
What motivated you to start your business?
As a tall skinny girl with very little clothing options that I could afford as a teen, I started making clothes mostly for myself. There's a lot of us out there not happy with the clothing options... so I decided to focus on fit and comfort for ALL body types with the emphasis on easy to wear fashionable Tee's. In a world of trends, I like to keep mine timeless.
What in life inspires you to create more of what you love?
The woman who wear my clothes inspire me. They're from all walks of life, choosing to conquer their day in comfy stylish Tee's made to fit just right. My love for creating wearable art and the obsession with soft breathable fabrics for everyone.
What is your biggest dream for your business and/or life?
My biggest wildest dream is to create a brand that can make a difference in how others see themselves. Paulina Clothing is currently in specialty Boutiques and Museum stores across the U.S. I really would LOVE to be in Europe someday.
What is the largest hurdle you've had to overcome to get to where you are now?
I was born and raised in a small farming town in Central California. I used to ride horses with a team by the name of Riata Ranch, that taught me to be tough as nails. I moved to L.A on an old Bronco stuffed to the roof with all my belongings. My largest hurdle to overcome was that, going back was not an option. You learn a lot about yourself when you're all alone. I've had to get out of my comfort zone and push myself and my brand. No one else is going to do that for you.
What is one piece of advice you'd give women looking to step into your field?
If you're looking to make quick money, honey don't do it. Make sure you love what you do. Have a business plan, be ready to listen to advise and be open to change the path you're on. There's no one easy road to success but it can be a lot of fun with the right people in your life.
What do you do to reset and refresh when life feels heavy?
I paint. I shop. I cry a lot. Then I pull myself together and find a new way.
What is your favorite activity on days off?
OMG I love dancing! Salsa, Tango, Swing and good old 80's music. (I joined my first folklorico dance team at age 7. Walked right up and put my name on the list.) Go-getter since day one!
If you could hop on a plane right now where would you go and why?
Each year my husband and I spin a globe, pick a random place and book a ticket. We then pick a second location and figure out our way in between. I really want to visit Switzerland. I'm curious about their food and culture.
Who would you invite to dinner? Frida Kahlo, Virgen de Guadalupe, or someone else that inspires you?
Frida Kahlo, I'd totally geek out and forget what to ask her.
We hope you’ve enjoyed reading Paulina's insight into how she started her own business and what keeps her motivated. Stay tuned for a lot more Chisme with other inspiring chicas!
Sign-up for our newsletter below to know when a new interview is posted—we’re sure you’ll find a dose of inspiration in each of these stories.
Leave a comment