UsTrendy’s Trendsetter of the Week this week is Kelly Brabants! Not only is Kelly an amazing fitness trainer, she is also a fashion designer! Check out her exclusive interview below and her Booty By Brabants leggings! XOXO

What inspired you to start your fitness training and leggings line? 

I grew up dancing since I was three years old and have always loved fitness and working out. It was at Equinox (where I started as a personal trainer) that I knew I wanted to do this for the rest of my life. Helping people and making them feel good about themselves is the best part of my job. Starting Booty By Brabants was a way to impact and reach multiple women at once. I wanted the class to be authentic and really show my passion and personality. The class was inspired by my Brazilian background and the beauty of a woman’s curves; embracing what you have and being proud to show it off.

This passion is what started the one size fits all workout legging known on social media as #BBBLeggings. I had been wearing these leggings for over a year before I decided to start the business. I never imagined I would have the ability to start my own clothing line, but sure enough it happened so organically. I reached out to a designer and manufacturer in Brazil to see if they wanted to work with me, and in 3 months we launched my online ecommerce website. As soon as the first 100 leggings were sold, the word of mouth around Boston drove our business, and we were sold out in a little over a month. Now I work full time for Booty By Brabants and also teach 14 classes a week. I truly believe now that anything is possible if your passionate and work really, really hard!

What’s your biggest tip for someone who wants to get into the fitness and design industry?

Be authentic! Don’t try and imitate someone else, be yourself and stay true to your vision. I strongly believe that when starting a business you have to love it like your own baby, and protect it so that no one can get in the way. When you have that type of passion, you will be successful no matter what. Also, work with people you trust and who genuinely want you to succeed; my business partners are my mom and dad.

How would you describe your own personal style?

I have two styles, laid back/sporty when I am working, and edgy/chic when I go out at night. I literally can go out with no make up on and a giant bun on top of my head or decked out in a crop top, stilettos, and fake eyelashes – It just depends on my mood! Haha

What are some of your current fashion obsessions?

Current fashion obsessions are body-con midi skirts/dresses, body suits, and crop tops – basically all I wear. And I’m on a sunglass kick lately – I feel like they are the best summer accessory, right alongside fun and bright colored nails!

What is one thing that people would be surprised to hear?

People might be surprised to hear that as much as I work to be healthy and fit, I don’t follow a strict diet. I enjoy food too much to not eat what I want (I love chicken wings, chocolate chip cookies, and pizza) but I enjoy these things in moderation.  If I know I’m going out to dinner at night, I’ll work out extra hard during the day and have a lighter lunch.

Is there someone out there who inspires you fashion-wise?

I will admit that I get a lot of my fashion inspiration from the Kardashian family, and especially Kylie Jenner.  I love the way she puts her outfits together.  I’m inspired by her edginess and how her style is kind-of “out there” – it keeps fashion fun for me, and that’s what it should be about.

What is your favorite product from UsTrendy?

 Obsessed with this summery two-piece set: http://www.ustrendy.com/bright-paisley-indian-print-twin-set-dress

Where do you like to travel?

Brazil is definitely my favorite place to travel but I am dying to visit Australia and the Amalfi Coast!

What is the one thing you couldn’t live without?

My family, a Starbucks venti iced americano, and my nail salon (“Amy’s Nails” in the North End)

 

To follow Kelly on Social Media, Click the links below:

Booty By Brabants Website

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter