It’s been said that a person can never really know someone else. This could be said about anyone, but people seem to have preconceived notions about models. For some reason, models have a reputation for taking themselves way too seriously and being self-obsessed. Well, this is most definitely not the case with model and entrepreneur Sidney Sky. She is the friendliest, most free-spirited, down-to-earth model you will ever meet.
At just twenty-four, Sidney Sky is the CEO and founder of Transcend Athletica, a business dedicated to empowering women to feel good about their bodies in athletic clothing. “I had this dream for a long time, but I had no idea how I would actually make it happen,” the young CEO shares. “After going through my divorce with a less than supportive partner, I just felt a burning desire to change my life.”
Sidney’s fitness journey started when she was a teenager.
Sidney wanted to start a new chapter in her life, but she did more than start a new chapter. “ I just threw the whole effing book out,” she explains. “ I wasn’t under anyone’s control anymore, and I just felt a renewed sense of freedom.” Sidney invested a great deal of time researching all the materials and fabrics for her brand. She wanted her workout gear to be flattering, comfortable, and affordable. She has been on a very personal fitness journey for three years now. It began when she was a teenager.
Finally, she was diagnosed with endometriosis after years of unexplained chronic pain. “After two surgeries in the same year, I was extremely depressed,” Sidney admits. “Not only was I fighting my own mind, but I was fighting the doctors that were trying to force a hysterectomy or perhaps put me on disability.” She continues, “That’s the thing about hidden diseases – everyone thinks you’re faking it because they can’t see it.”
Sidney explains that for years she was told that she was lying about her pain. “ That put me into a lonely state of self-doubt and loathing,” she admits. “I wasn’t ready to give up, though.” She had two friends that were bodybuilders. “I ended up finding an escape through bodybuilding,” Sidney says. “I absolutely fell in love with it, and it gave me a more normal, healthy life, both physically and mentally. It was the perfect time for her to start her brand.
“I’m not saying Victoria’s Secret models don’t need workout clothes, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all.”
Buying workout clothes has always been such a painstaking task for women. “Not only are these clothes overpriced, but they’re not flattering,” Sidney emphasizes. “If you aren’t designing clothes to fit the bodies of real women, what are you even doing?” She continues, “I’m not saying Victoria’s Secret models don’t need workout clothes, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all.” It seems that small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes vastly differ depending on where you shop and don’t actually equate to real waist sizes. “ I just got tired of buying pants that flatten my butt.” she laughs. “ I want my butt to look good, doesn’t everybody?”
Sidney single-handedly created her brand. She does everything from designing to customer service. She keeps track of inventory, accounting, and marketing. “I started by researching and investing in the kind of technology I knew I would need to set myself up for success,” she explains. “I took a picture of my body and drew designs over it.” She continues laughing, “I seriously draw like a nine-year-old, but whatever, it gets the job done.” Sidney doesn’t let her drawing ability or anything else get in her way.
Transcend Athletica is a representation of Sidney’s personal transcendence.
Along with Transcend Athletica’s stylish designs are equally stylish and fun names such as Rise Sports Bra in Sunset, Rise Legging in Lagoon, and Naked Seamless Crop – Dew. “ I love fashion and following trends, so I like to see what is projected to be in style,” she says. “But my ultimate goal is to meet the athletic needs of all women.” Transcend Athletica is a representation of Sidney’s personal transcendence. “To transcend is to overcome, but not just overcome, exceed expectations,” Sidney explains. “ I want other women to feel chic and self-assured while they eclipse and evershadow all the people who doubted their ability to reinvent themselves.”
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