Interview: Alesha Bowman - Owner and Operator of unLESHed+
We like to take time to highlight women we see out in the world doing their part to make the world a little nicer. In this Real Nice Lady Spotlight, we’re talking to Alesha Bowman, Owner and Operater of unLESHed+, about taking risks, having faith in yourself, and what she looks for at thrift stores.
Job Title/Profession
Owner/Operator of unLESHed+
Favorite Drink?
Water
Favorite Food?
Rotel
Karaoke Song?
Weak by SWV
What song are you listening to on repeat right now?
Sit On It by Jazmine Sullivan
Female icon you would be for Halloween?
Josephine Baker
Telling as little or as much as you want, how are you feeling these days?
My heart is full.
What part(s) of your life during the pandemic have made you rethink your "normal" life?
My career
What first attracted you to your current profession?
I love the freedom of expression and creativity that comes with fashion.
Tell us about how you started unLESHed+. What inspired this? What was the process like?
I always loved fashion and was in a space in life where I was not happy anymore. I needed an escape and unLESHed+ was that. The process began in my apartment with items I had been saving for years because I always thought it would be cool to open a thrift store. I started online and reached out to my social media community to grow my audience. We had really good success in the beginning and that encouraged me to keep going.
When it comes to sourcing items for unLESHed+, do you pay attention to fashion trends or do you go your own way?
It’s a combination of both. I think it’s important to stay up on trends/culture to be informed of what people may be asking for but also staying true to my own eye and knowledge of what will sell well if trends aren’t as wearable.
I have an eclectic mix of customers from med students, to lawyers, stay-at-home moms, and young girls - so lucky I get to step outside of mainstream trends and lean on my own fashion interpretations a lot.
Where do you draw inspiration from in your own closet?
Ummmm, lol. My personal style has changed a lot since becoming a full-time entrepreneur. Before when I worked as a Higher Education Administrator, my style was more polished with an edge. A lot of blazers, pencil skirts, blouses, A-line dresses, dress shoes, etc. Now I go for more comfort than anything. So most days it’s leggings or sweats with sneakers. When I do have to be more dressed up, it’s still rooted in comfort and functionality because I never know what all a day’s work will involve so I have to be prepared.
Anything in unLESHed+ that you’re dying for someone to buy so you can see it out in the world?
We have so many amazing vintage pieces that just can’t seem to find a home. More specifically, there is an electric blue velvet cape that comes to mind. I haven’t quite been able to tap into the KC Plus-size vintage folks.
What did you learn about yourself in the process of starting your own business?
I learned that many of my experiences, though I had encountered varying identities of people, were centered around myself and what I like. I learned that I needed to lean into the needs and experiences of my customers if I wanted longevity.
When you made the jump to start your business, did you approach it with a gut feeling, or was there a lot of planning going on behind the scenes?
It definitely was not a gut feeling but an outlet from the stressors at my full-time position. I worked long hours and was dealing with very sensitive topics that made for high levels of stress. Starting unLESHed+ was me carving out time for myself to get my mind off of work initially. There was still planning and strategy behind it, definitely wasn’t just an idea I would try out. I knew it would be a hit so I nurtured it.
What has it been like operating in a pandemic? What challenges have you faced?
Operating during a pandemic was interesting. It hasn't been a cakewalk, but I do think that I have had it a lot easier than some of my peers. Business definitely shifted and we really had to be creative. Find virtual ways to stay connected. I think the most challenging part was balancing the demand and all of the emotions that come with running a business during times like these.
What has been your favorite thing to come from launching unLESHed+?
My ability to gain the strength to leave the comfort of my 9-5. I never saw myself as an entrepreneur. I was comfortable collecting my check bi-weekly and working on my true dream part-time. Once I truly became "unLESHed", the possibilities took off.
What is your favorite thing about your industry? Your least favorite?
I love the possibility of catering to your audience and giving your brand a voice for your community.
I don’t like that the plus-size community lacks broadened representation.
What advice would you give other women trying to succeed in your industry?
Create your own identity in the space.
What was a formative moment in your life that made you who you are?
My grandma taking me to the thrift store at 8 years old.
We’d love to hear more about your trips to the thrift store with your grandma. What was your favorite part?
My trips with Gramms were a gem. I don't think she really understood how pivotal they were for me but getting clothing that I LOVED and fit my body flawlessly gave me undoubtable confidence. No one else had my looks, and most importantly I had options.
My favorite part back then was the hunt. I was always excited to discover what was new out there.
What items do you find yourself looking for every time you thrift?
I am the stereotypical thrift girl, I LOVE beaded sequin. That's when I know it was a good thrift!
What do you hope for the future of your industry?
More affordable sustainable and plus-size options.
When do you feel the strongest in your life? When do you feel the most vulnerable in your life?
I feel strongest when I’m helping others.
I feel most vulnerable when I’m sharing my struggles.
Given the state of the world, what have you been doing to maintain your mental health lately?
Keeping busy when I want and allowing myself the chance to do nothing for multiple days if needed.
Who are five women that inspire you?
Kim Thornton (mom)
Brianna Dunn (good friend)
Yasmeen Marzett (best friend)
Beyoncé (Muva)
Me 🙂
What goals do you have for 2021? How can the Kansas City community support you in your mission?
My 2021 goals are to just keep growing. I want to streamline and organize a lot of our processes and procedures in order to be able to bring on at least 1 employee.
The KC community can help by continuing to share our story with those who may be interested and continuing to shop local!
I also always encourage our tribe (customers, supporters, folks who rock with us) to feel free to mention us in places we don’t have access to. If there are permits that we should be privy to, let us know! This alone had opened many doors for us.
Tell us more about Plus Size Weekend!
Through fashion, social events, and workshops, our vision is to empower plus-size folks to be fearless leaders despite their size, weight, and structure. Kansas City Plus Size Weekend is a four-day festival aiming to promote a positive environment that celebrates the beauty and diversity of fuller figures.
The weekend includes:
