Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Images by Al Blanton
“You are altogether beautiful, my darling; there is no flaw in you.” – Song of Songs 4:7 (NIV)
This powerful scripture is the guiding light behind Grit and Grace, a new online women’s clothing business founded by Cindy Sargent, Crystal Russell, and Leslie Earnest. With a friendship spanning over 30 years, these women have transformed their long-held dream into a reality, driven by a shared passion for empowering women through fashion.
“We’ve always talked about doing this, we knew it was something we could do, but the time had to be right,” Cindy says. “Life took us on different paths—raising children and navigating personal journeys. But about a year and a half to two years ago, we realized it was our time.”
Grit and Grace is more than just a name; it’s a philosophy. The three explain that “grit” represents the passion and perseverance individuals demonstrate, a quality they believe is essential for overcoming life’s challenges. “Grace,” on the other hand, symbolizes the unmerited favor and compassion that everyone deserves, regardless of their circumstances. This blend of qualities reflects the founders’ understanding of what women face in today’s society—unrealistic standards of perfection that often lead to unnecessary comparisons and self-doubt.
“Women are constantly bombarded with messages that set unattainable standards. We want to change that narrative. Our goal is for every woman to know they are worthy and beautiful, exactly as they are,” Crystal says. “We’re here to help women feel good about themselves, to feel accepted, and to express themselves through their fashion choices.”
Grit and Grace is for every woman. Leslie emphasizes the inclusive nature of their clothing line, noting that both her 17-year-old daughter and she herself enjoy wearing the same pieces, styled differently to suit their individual tastes. She also notes that the clothes they sell are not the most important part of their business. “To us its bigger than the clothes, the clothes are just a point of connection with other women, and then we get to show them how worthy and beautiful they are.”
For Cindy, Crystal, and Leslie, Grit and Grace is more than a business—it’s a vehicle for change, encouraging women to embrace their true selves with confidence and grace. Their commitment to changing the narrative around women’s beauty and self-worth is not only commendable but also a testament to the power of friendship, passion, and perseverance in creating a more accepting and empowering society. WL
Shop Grit and Grace at gritandgraceboutique.co
