Tracy Christian, the creator of Sante Grace, decided to take fashion into her own hands. By creating an inclusive brand for the plus-size community she capitalized on the issues she saw in the fashion industry. Sante Grace is not only luxurious and comfortable, but it is sustainable with their packaging and materials. Keep reading to learn more about the inspiration behind the empowering brand and how Sante Grace came to be.

Where are you based?
Los Angeles.

Where did the name “Sante Grace” come from?
It’s really bad French. I named the company after my grandmother – Grace Christian.

What prompted you to start Sante Grace?
So much. Shopping has always been a challenge. I needed clothes for dates. Clothes for travel, the Oscars, the office, church — clothes for my best life.

How is it different from other clothing brands?
I worshiped brands like St. Laurent, but they don’t make clothes in my size. Rather than complain I created Sante Grace. Our line is filled with clothes made from silk charmeuse, fine linens, hand-tooled leathers etc. We’re accessible luxury. Fashion-forward, sexy, and fun.

With global warming on the rise, sustainability in the fashion industry is a huge movement. How does Sante Grace dedicate their efforts toward sustainability?
We purchase our supplies from jobbers preventing textiles from going into landfills. We also do short production runs. Our shipping materials are all made from recycled materials also.

Why was starting a plus-sized luxury brand important to you?
Really I just needed clothes to wear and if I had the problem I’m sure others did too. Shopping should be fun. Sante Grace makes building a wardrobe fun. And dressing up in well made thoughtfully designed clothes is important.

In the fashion industry, what is a change that you feel would benefit the plus-size community?
I want plus women to invest in themselves and place community over competition.

Do you feel fashion is following the body positivity movement?
Not really. Most of the lines creating clothes that respect what our bodies really look like are privately owned brands. A lot of other places are just making bigger clothes. Good, but not great.

Coming out of the pandemic, body image and confidence was a real issue. Did that affect Sante Grace at all?
My father passed away during the pandemic (not because of the COVID). It was hard, but the benefit of that experience is how I was able to look at life. Life is to be loved and fully experienced. Dress up. Don’t save your nice clothes for a special occasion that may never come. Wear things that make you look good and feel good. I am worth it.

Is there any advice you would share with women struggling with their body image?
Stop focusing on everything your body isn’t and praise yourself. Today I have a big protruding belly. So what. I wear my bikini and worship the sun when I’m in Jamaica like everyone else. I created caftans that glide over my tummy and I look fantastic.

What are your goals for Sante Grace? Where do you see yourself going down the road?
I want everyone to have the opportunity to enjoy Sante Grace. It took years for me to appreciate my own beauty and I’d like other women to have that gift sooner.

Do you have a favorite piece you have designed?
Well, my caftans are my muse. They’re great for tons of occasions. Nightlife, the beach, the office….. Half the world wears caftans and I understand why. But so many of the pieces changed my life. Our flightsuits, caftans, Light Sleepers, and joggers. Now I feel like I have a wardrobe that takes me everywhere.

Where can we find Sante Grace?
Sante Grace’s full line is available online at SanteGrace.com

It has been a crazy few years. How have you been staying in a positive headspace?
My faith. I believe in God and prayer has kept me going through the pandemic and now through the strikes in the entertainment industry.

What is your motto in life?
Faith and fashion.

To stay connected with Sante Grace, please check out the link below:
SanteGrace.com

Sante Grace - The Brand Encouraging Ladies to be Lush and Luxurious