Today we’d like to introduce you to Calla Tolbert
Hi Calla , thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve always dreamed of starting my own activewear brand, and one day in 2023, it became clear to me that I could pursue this passion at this stage of my life. I was specifically searching for bold, bright, and fun prints in activewear but struggled to find options that weren’t designer labels and prohibitively expensive. As I delved into sourcing and researching, I quickly understood why this was the case: creating such clothing from scratch is extremely costly for newcomers in the industry.
Realizing this, I decided to start small with the basics—focusing on solid colors and essential styles of workout clothes that would allow me to test the market. This was the beginning of RaceDae, and I’m proud to say that our first year was a success. We grew beyond what I had imagined, reaching customers across the country beyond my immediate circle of family and friends. While our customer base may not be vast, it’s encouraging to know that there is a demand for specialty and boutique-like brands throughout the United States. We even shipped products to the UK and South Africa!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
In the beginning, we engaged in extensive testing and ordered multiple sample products, many of which did not meet the standard and quality I was looking for. I wanted RaceDae to be crafted from exceptional fabrics—materials that I would personally want to wear on my race days. If a product didn’t meet the criteria for what I could train and race in, it was immediately discarded. Ultimately, we found the fabrics we loved and moved forward from there.
As you know, we’re big fans of RaceDae Athletics . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
We create bold, bright, and brave activewear for women seeking quality products that will stand the test of time. Our collection is designed for runners, yogis, gym-goers, and every type of athlete you can imagine! Our products are made for all women!
What matters most to you? Why?
We deeply value clothing that is made ethically, responsibly, and thoughtfully. Supporting small businesses is important to us. We are especially passionate about activewear created by women, for women.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://RaceDae.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/racedaeathletics/
