The Story Behind Bouweys
Dreams happen when you least expect it.
What started as a simple drawing hobby eventually turned into a career goal.
I’ve loved drawing since I was little—mostly landscapes and stick figured families. Around the age of eight, I stopped sketching stick figures and began sketching people with clothing, but instead of recreating outfits I’d seen, I felt drawn to designing my own. That’s when I discovered how much I loved using my imagination to create something entirely new.
From then on, I spent most of my free time sketching designs and making paper dresses for my Barbie dolls.
By the age of 10, it was my goal to one day have my own fashion business or “fashion empire,” as I used to call it.
2017
Somewhere between fashion classes and a part-time retail job, Bouweys (bao-weez) first took shape as a tiny online resell boutique, run out of my bedroom. At the time, it was an affordable street-style brand focused on trendy pieces for young college women.
What does the name Bouweys mean? Bouwey is my childhood nickname, and since this brand is such a personal extension of me, it felt only natural to build it around a name that already felt like home.
2019
I closed my website and rebranded Bouweys as an Etsy shop, focusing on handmade scrunchies and hair accessories while working part-time in fashion styling. I also made kids clothing inspired by my Hmong culture. In addition to selling online, I also sold my pieces at local markets sharing spaces with other small shops.
Five years later, in 2024, I rebranded once again—this time fully stepping into my true passion: designing and sewing women’s clothing.
Inspired by Nature, Made with Intention
My inspiration comes from nature, playful prints and sometimes my Hmong culture. I’m mostly drawn to florals and delicate fabrics that feel soft and timeless. While my designs lean toward a feminine, romantic style, I love mixing in touches of street style and drawing inspiration from my Hmong culture.
All of my fabrics are hand-sourced from local shops, and when I can’t find exactly what I’m envisioning, I work with trusted suppliers to create custom prints. Every piece is designed and handmade by me, from my home to yours.
I put so much love and care into each item because I’m passionate about creating high-quality timeless pieces you’ll reach for again and again. I hope you'll enjoy wearing them just as much as I've enjoyed creating them.
Thank you for reading my story!
I hope you'll stay with me as my story continues!
♡ Bout
