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Cami Tellez

Operator

Cami Tellez is best known as the founder of Parade, the direct-to-consumer underwear brand she launched in 2019 while still in her early twenties. Tellez built Parade into one of the fastest-growing intimates brands in the US by centering inclusive sizing, sustainable materials, and a vibrant, community-driven aesthetic that resonated strongly with Gen Z consumers. The brand's marketing approach — heavy on social media, influencer community building, and user-generated content — became a widely cited example of modern DTC brand-building. Tellez studied at Columbia University before dropping out to pursue Parade full-time. Under her leadership, Parade raised significant venture capital funding and expanded from a digital-first model into wholesale retail partnerships. The brand's growth made Tellez a prominent voice on DTC strategy, brand identity, and the future of the intimates category. Parade was acquired by Ariela & Associates International in 2023. Tellez has been recognized as a young founder reshaping how consumer brands connect with younger audiences through values-led marketing and community engagement.

Last updated Oct 17, 2026 by ATDb automated enrichment

Role
Founder
Company
Parade
Based
New York, New York, United States

AI-drafted from public sources1 source cited

Years in industry
6 years

Bio

Cami Tellez is best known as the founder of Parade, the direct-to-consumer underwear brand she launched in 2019 while still in her early twenties. Tellez built Parade into one of the fastest-growing intimates brands in the US by centering inclusive sizing, sustainable materials, and a vibrant, community-driven aesthetic that resonated strongly with Gen Z consumers. The brand's marketing approach — heavy on social media, influencer community building, and user-generated content — became a widely cited example of modern DTC brand-building. Tellez studied at Columbia University before dropping out to pursue Parade full-time. Under her leadership, Parade raised significant venture capital funding and expanded from a digital-first model into wholesale retail partnerships. The brand's growth made Tellez a prominent voice on DTC strategy, brand identity, and the future of the intimates category. Parade was acquired by Ariela & Associates International in 2023. Tellez has been recognized as a young founder reshaping how consumer brands connect with younger audiences through values-led marketing and community engagement.

Expertise & education

Expertise

DTC Brand BuildingInclusive MarketingCommunity-Led GrowthSocial Media MarketingInfluencer MarketingConsumer Brand StrategySustainable FashionGen Z Marketing

Education

  • Columbia University (attended, did not complete)

Speaking topics

DTC brand buildingInclusive marketing and product designGen Z consumer behaviorCommunity-driven growth strategies

Recognition

Notable achievements

  • Founded Parade in 2019 and scaled it into one of the fastest-growing DTC intimates brands in the US
  • Raised significant venture capital funding to fuel Parade's growth and retail expansion
  • Led Parade through a successful acquisition by Ariela & Associates International in 2023

Awards

Forbes 30 Under 30 — Retail & Ecommerce