At Later, we’re all about empowering creators to turn their passions into thriving businesses, and few do it with the style, flair, and authenticity of this month’s featured creator, Dallas-based fashion influencer Kai Scates—or as her community knows her, Kai Michelle. With nearly 250,000 followers across all her active social platforms, Kai’s feed is a masterclass in chic fashion, beauty inspiration, and body positivity, all wrapped up in her signature vibe: bold, bright, and unapologetically real.
But don’t take our word for it: check her out for yourself on Instagram, TikTok, or at her personal website, mskaimichelle.com.
Kai’s fashion influencer journey began back in her high school days, when she fell in love with blogging on Tumblr and Lookbook. Inspired by her friend’s funky, oversized styles, she started sharing her own unique looks. With an eye for thrifty fashion and a determination to make the most of what she had, Kai cultivated her style on a budget, and it was a hit.
“When I graduated high school, I remember telling myself I just wanted to share my outfits,” she says. “I didn’t grow up with a lot of money, so I got creative—thrifting was my thing, and I loved it!”
What started as a hobby turned into something bigger in college, where Kai’s online presence grew. From her blog to social media, her voice and style resonated with followers. She even transitioned her blog into an online magazine before focusing fully on social media and content creation.
Post-college, Kai landed her first brand deal, a collaboration with a boutique in Florida. “I was shocked they even wanted to pay me,” she laughs. That first $200 check sparked the realization that she could turn her passion into a career as a fashion influencer.
Since then, Kai’s influence has only grown, and so has her partnership portfolio. But for Kai, it’s about more than just the deals, it’s about connecting with her community, a loyal group she affectionately calls her “lovers and friends.”
Kai’s community isn’t just her followers; they’re her friends, her cheerleaders, and sometimes even her accidental coworkers! Her trademark greeting—“Hello, my lovers and friends!”—has become a daily dose of sunshine for many, so much so that fans have stopped her in public to say it back.
“It’s moments like those that remind me why I love what I do,” Kai says.
When it comes to her bestsellers, Kai keeps it real. Her Walmart shapewear and Lane Bryant strapless bra are consistent hits, thanks to her authentic reviews and personal endorsements.
“As a curvy girl, I want comfort and confidence,” she says. “My followers love these pieces because they work—and they’re affordable!”
When Kai first joined Later in 2022, she wasn’t sure what to make of the emails she received from our Influencer Development Specialist team, which provides Later creators with personalized support, insider tips, and education from day one. “I thought it might be too good to be true!” she jokes. But after a closer look and a chat with the team to learn more about the platform and its potential, Kai dove in. Later’s tools and analytics have helped her hone her strategy, from identifying top-performing products to refining her content to match what her audience loves most.
“I’ve learned so much from Later about my analytics. It’s a game-changer knowing what my audience is buying and loving—it’s helped me stay true to myself while delivering what my community wants.”
Kai’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. From navigating management missteps to dealing with the unpredictability of social media algorithms, she’s learned to pivot, adapt, and lean into her community’s support.
“Being an influencer isn’t easy—it’s a full-time job,” she shares. “But if you stay true to yourself and your audience, the opportunities will follow.”
Her advice for aspiring creators? “Start small, stay consistent, and don’t be afraid to reach out for help. You never know where your journey might take you!”
Kai Michelle is proof that with passion, authenticity, and a little creativity, you can turn your dreams into reality.
Ready to take the next step in your creator journey? Join Later to start earning affiliate income and connect with top brands.