Today we’d like to introduce you to Caitlin Collins.
Hi Caitlin, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
The story of Lupus Style Society really starts in my late 20s. At the time, I was living in NYC and was a practicing attorney. My future felt wide open. But when I was diagnosed with lupus, I had to take a medical leave of absence from my job. I couldn’t go out with my friends. My world got super small, super quickly, and it felt like overnight I’d become invisible. That’s how many people with a chronic illness feel. Friends and family often don’t understand. How could they? It took a long time to figure out what my new priorities needed to be and how to rebuild my sense of self. Of course, mental health and physical health are deeply intertwined, and so finding things I could still enjoy despite my physical limitations was critical.
One of the unexpected gifts of lupus is that it made me slow down. I was no longer forced to keep up an intense schedule. I could explore and develop my own interests. I started to pay more attention to what I was wearing and what felt good, because I had time to notice. Before, I’d wake up in the morning and be so focused on getting to work I’d throw on the first black, performance-fabric pants I could find—whatever I could spill coffee on and no one would notice. But after lupus, I was able to spend time sifting through my closet and if I wanted to wear a purple, faux fur coat there was no reason I couldn’t. Fashion reminded me I can have fun and that I have free will. I do have an aesthetic and a vision, and it’s not performance fabric. People started complimenting the things I wore, and I realized that it was okay to be this new version of myself and that there was a place for her. I had a way of being in the world again. I started following the international fashion scene and attending shows. Eventually, I got to know designers and the incredible people behind the brands.
I didn’t set out to create Lupus Style Society. It grew organically from my desire to be an advocate for lupus and invite others to join this community I’d grown to love. Our central mission is simple: bring visibility to an invisible illness.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I wish! Like anything worth doing, it’s definitely had its challenges, and no doubt there are more curveballs still ahead. Balancing a chronic illness while navigating a fast-paced, image-driven industry requires very strong boundaries. There have been times when I’ve had to slow down, advocate for my own health, and recalibrate what success in that moment can look like. As much as I might like to, I can’t say “yes” to everything. I can’t attend every event. But this also means I have more time for reflection and to take stock of the progress I’ve made and where I still want to go. It’s a unique point of view in a world that doesn’t value going slow or being still, and it allows me to shape and operate Lupus Style Society with intention, flexibility, and empathy.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Lupus Style Society lives at the intersection of fashion, philanthropy, and advocacy. Simply put, we partner with luxury brands to create curated events and experiences that raise awareness and funds for lupus research while celebrating creativity and community. I’m especially proud of our collaborations with Pucci and Balmain. What sets us apart is that we use culture and fashion as accessible entry points to start meaningful conversations about lupus. But, of course, there’s still a lot to learn. We’re just starting out. I’m excited to see how we might grow and evolve in the coming months and years.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
This work wouldn’t be possible without the support of visionary brand partners and creatives who believe in using fashion as a force for good. Fortunately, I haven’t had to convince anyone in the industry that incorporating a charity component into their work and events is important—all of us are on the same page. It’s also important to me to be clear that it is the lupus community that fuels Lupus Style Society. A lot of people in my life didn’t even realize that I have lupus, and a number of others in my larger community have let me know that they, too, have lupus. Those connections mean a lot to me and are extremely rewarding. Last, but certainly not least, are the beautiful souls who attend the events themselves. There’s no style society without them. I’m in awe of the support and enthusiasm our community in Miami has shown us already. I’m proud to live in a city that treats giving back as both a responsibility and a privilege. I hoped people would be interested, but I had no idea how generous and open everyone would be with their encouragement, support, and willingness to help and show up. I don’t take any contribution for granted, and I’m looking forward to even more opportunities to share and collaborate.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Caitlin Collins
