Lauren Conrad: From Reality Star to Mogul! Discover Her Business Empire

In 2009, Lauren Conrad, just 23 years old and fresh from “Laguna Beach,” launched LC Lauren Conrad at Kohl’s, marking a bold career pivot. As she mentioned in an exclusive interview, this move was always part of her plan. Today, seventeen years later, with two children and a consolidated fashion empire, her bet has yielded evident results.

Her initial clothing line has evolved into a multifaceted business that spans from handbags and jewelry to shoes, decor, and children's clothing, under the brand Little Co. by Lauren Conrad.

Inspired by her personal style, the LC Lauren Conrad brand has remained the most searched at Kohl’s. Originally with a hyper-feminine approach, it has evolved to adopt a more versatile style, merging elements of relaxed surfer with country touches. Conrad explains that this evolution and the expansion of categories have been driven by her loyal audience, which has followed her since her beginnings on television.

"As a brand, you always seek to evolve and stay relevant. It's crucial to continue offering the basics that your customers seek, but also to maintain their interest. We are constantly walking that fine line. We pay close attention to the messages we receive on social media; it's valuable information to ensure we are creating the best possible product," she added.

In 2026, the LC Lauren Conrad line, like its founder, will return to its feminine and Californian roots. This return will materialize with its latest collection, which pays homage to the brand's origins, just in time for the premiere of “The Reunion: Laguna Beach” on April 10 on The Roku Channel. This special will reunite Conrad with the original cast of the MTV series, including her former rival Kristin Cavallari and her ex-boyfriend Stephen Colletti.

Conrad confessed to feeling full of emotions when participating in the project as an executive producer, which allowed her to have greater control over the final editing. However, she also expressed nervousness about being back in front of the cameras after two decades. "It was a very difficult day, with many lights, long hours, and uncomfortable questions," she recalled.

Conrad reflects on her transformation from the 18-year-old who rose to fame in 2004. She emphasizes that she now prioritizes her personal well-being, especially as a mother. "We lived in an era where social media did not exist, which allowed us to feel safer being ourselves in front of the cameras. We didn't have the pressure of exposing our lives to millions of people who would share their opinions and thoughts about it," she explained.

"I love my teenage years and my twenties, I had a lot of fun, but physically I couldn't keep up with that pace today," she concluded.

Participating in “Laguna Beach” marked the beginning of a crucial stage in Lauren Conrad's life, propelling her towards a path of personal and professional growth. The transition from reality star to successful businesswoman was not accidental, but the result of a clear vision and hard work. Her ability to connect with the public and anticipate market trends has been key to building an empire that continues to expand.

The evolution of LC Lauren Conrad reflects the maturity of its founder and her commitment to quality and innovation. The return to her Californian roots and the reunion with her “Laguna Beach” companions are a testament to her journey and a nod to her most loyal followers.