In "Quick Questions," Bustle asked female leaders for advice on everything from the best mentoring they've received to how they deal with stressful work hours. This week, celebrity stylist and Period co-founder Karla Welch makes an appearance. The period Co's show talks about period sustainability, her unique career path and her favorite ways to manage stress.
Karla Welch is known for styling the likes of Hailey Bieber, Tracee Ellis Ross, America Ferrera and Lorde. During the day, she rubs shoulders with celebrity clients and dresses them for the red carpet. Then, in true Virgo style, she dives into her side hustle.
Welch runs a menstrual underwear company — aptly named Period — with co-founder Sasha Markov. What is their goal? Dispel the age-old shame narrative surrounding this time of month. "We're initially a company that's going to revisit this period in a more positive way because it's a positive thing," she tells Bustle.
The brand's slogan is "Period. Soon everyone will want one." Priced at $9 to $16 a pair, the brand aims to make period underwear easier to use, more comfortable and more effective. Patent-pending organic cotton has four layers to absorb menstrual blood throughout the day, while unique seams prevent leaks.
Since its launch in 2020, the brand has been focused on sustainability — you don't need disposable pads, tampons or plastic applicators to manage your period, Welch says — and it has expanded its reach, To ensure people have access to period products globally.
“We are working hard to ensure everyone has equitable access to menstrual care,” she said. “This is one of the most concerning human rights crises we have to deal with because when menstruating people thrive, the world thrives.”
Below, Welch talks period poverty, her go-to workouts, and what wakes her up in the middle of the night.
How about period. Become what?
My child's period came early. I remember them being difficult to manage, and then I remember my own first period being chaotic as well. I started talking to thousands of people who menstruated, and many of them had similar situations. I want to know how I can make periods easier for everyone.
Menstrual underwear was also available at the time, but it was very expensive. I also don’t like the waste that tampons and pads create, so I decided to make my own period underwear – but do it better.
Did your career as a stylist come into play when you were designing period lingerie?
I understand manufacturing because I've done a lot of clothing collaborations and have my own clothing line, so I understand what it takes to make something. Sometimes when we have great ideas, the learning curve can be difficult. But everything I’ve done so far in my career has really helped my brand. Plus, I had to get my celebrity clients to scale the business.
Please tell me more about how your company is tackling period poverty.
Often, period planning involves giving someone a box of pads, but once they're gone, it's gone. With period underwear, you don’t have to buy period products anymore. You provide someone with a sense of security and increase their access to education.
What makes your brand sustainable?
Pads and tampons will never break down. There is no disposable menstrual product in the world that breaks down, so the first one you used is still here on earth.
From a sustainability perspective, giving a person five pieces of period underwear means their period is being taken care of for at least five years. We believe that if properly cared for, our underwear can last up to ten years. It eliminates the financial trap of having to pay for menstrual products each month.
How do you deal with stress before a big meeting?
I always feel nervous, but you know what? In fact, I think that feeling is more exciting than anything else. Your body can easily confuse the two. I think nerves are a good thing and remind myself to always be prepared.
How do you recharge at the end of a long week?
I'm a homebody. I love watching movies with my family, falling asleep on the couch, and hanging out with my dog. I try to do as little as possible because I do a lot while working. I also like Tracy Anderson's approach. It was hot and noisy, but I had never felt stronger. I like it when someone tells me what to do for an hour. This is the only time I don't have to make a decision.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Everything you do, even if it feels insignificant, will get you where you want to be. Every step is still a step. I think back on all the jobs I’ve had over the years and they all played a huge role in who I am today.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
