We recently connected with Lee Evans Lee and have shared our conversation below.
Lee Evans, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Alright, so you had your idea and then what happened? Can you walk us through the story of how you went from just an idea to executing on the idea
The idea really came to me during the COVID-19 pandemic, when I was spending more time out on the ranch. I started taking my sketches and turning them into a real concept. It took a lot of late nights researching and exploring.
First, I went through my own closet and looked at my favorite workout pants and other fabrics, trying to understand what materials I wanted to use. Then I spent about a year going to textile conferences, not to buy fabrics, but to learn from the scientists and manufacturers about the latest advancements in blending synthetic and natural fibers. I really wanted to understand how textiles had evolved and what kind of high-performance, luxurious fabrics I could utilize.
Parallel to that research, I also started educating myself on more technical design methods and software. I connected with a small manufacturer in San Antonio, Texas, and she really helped me understand just how challenging it would be to bring my vision to life. She pushed me to get more high-tech in my approach.
That’s when I discovered Clo 3D design software and hired a young woman to help me translate my sketches into digital 3D garments. We made the first three designs this way, and then I found a local printer to create my first look book. I started taking those initial designs to buyers, getting their feedback before moving into full production.
It was a long, iterative process of research, collaboration, and experimentation to get from that initial idea to actually launching the business. But I was determined to create something truly unique – clothing that combined luxury aesthetics with the comfort of activewear. That vision kept me going through all the ups and downs of getting the business off the ground.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I didn’t come from a traditional fashion background or have formal training in design, but creativity and style have always been my passions. My career has been unconventional—I started in television and then moved into healthcare, working in hospitals. Through it all, I found it hard to find clothing that combined comfort with style, something that could take me seamlessly from day to night. This gap inspired me to create my brand, with the goal of offering women versatile, high-performance apparel that transitions effortlessly across different parts of their day.
What sets my brand apart is this blend of luxury and functionality. I wanted to combine the tailored look of formalwear with the comfort of activewear, proving that you don’t have to choose between style and practicality. After extensive research and collaboration with manufacturers, I created a line of clothing that delivers on this promise of day-to-night wearability, with a fit and feel designed to empower women across a wide size range, from 0 to 16.
I’m most proud of creating pieces that truly make women’s lives easier. My brand is about more than just clothes—it’s about confidence and convenience. Every design is crafted with the intention of helping women feel amazing and empowered, no matter what their day holds. That’s the heart of what I do, and it’s what I hope shines through in my work.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
Entrepreneurship is filled with more losses than wins, but I’ve learned to embrace that as part of the journey, knowing the wins make it all worthwhile. One story that highlights my resilience is the connection I’ve built with my customers. I make it a priority to engage with every person who purchases my products, whether online or in-store, to understand their needs and hear their feedback.
Remarkably, in all the sales we’ve made, there’s been only one return and one exchange. That’s a testament to the quality and thoughtfulness in each piece we create, showing that we’re delivering on our promise of versatile, comfortable luxury. Seeing that level of customer satisfaction keeps me going, even on tough days—it reminds me that I’m not just running a business, but empowering women to feel confident and beautiful in their everyday lives.
This mission, to truly make a difference, keeps me resilient through every challenge. I push forward, learning from each setback and celebrating every win, knowing that this persistence is what will ultimately turn my dream into reality.
Have you ever had to pivot?
One of my most pivotal moments was while working in a hospital in San Antonio. Despite the meaningful work, I often felt frustrated and unfulfilled. One evening, I walked out and thought, “Whatever I do next, let it help more people and support them in building bigger dreams.” This mindset shift became a turning point, guiding me toward a path with greater impact and empowerment.
These pivots can be daunting, filled with uncertainty. But over time, they’ve become more exciting than frightening, as each one has brought me closer to my true purpose. Recently, I shared this perspective with a woman starting her own business—how I’m okay with failing because the journey itself, with its wins and losses, is a gift.
For me, it’s about more than just business success; it’s about using this platform to give back and help others reach their potential. Every pivot opens a new chapter where I get to grow, learn, and make a more meaningful impact. Embracing these moments is what keeps me moving forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mrsmommabear.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrsmommabearworkwear/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrsmommabearofficial
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MrsMommaBearOfficial
Image Credits
Courtesy of Mrs Momma Bear