Chelas Way has become one of the most recognizable names in social media modeling and body positivity advocacy. With over 3 million Instagram followers and a thriving business empire, this African-Latina model from the Bronx has turned her unique journey into an inspiring success story.
But who is the woman behind the Instagram handle @therealchelasway? What challenges did she overcome to build a multi-million dollar brand? And what can aspiring influencers learn from her path to success?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything about Chelas Wayāfrom her humble beginnings in New York to her current status as a fashion entrepreneur and cultural icon.
Table of Contents
Who Is Chelas Way?
Chelas Way is an American social media personality, plus-size model, entrepreneur, and body positivity advocate who has captured the attention of millions with her confidence and authentic presence.
Quick Facts About Chelas Way
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Chela Perez |
| Stage Name | Chelas Way |
| Date of Birth | August 14, 1984 (some sources say May 1, 1987) |
| Age | 38-41 years old |
| Birthplace | The Bronx, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-Latina |
| Profession | Model, Social Media Influencer, Entrepreneur, Podcast Host |
| Famous For | Instagram modeling, body positivity, urban fashion |
| Instagram Handle | @therealchelasway |
| Instagram Followers | 3+ million |
| Net Worth | Approximately $2-2.5 million USD |
| Height | 5’4″ – 5’5″ (163-165 cm) |
| Weight | 165-175 lbs (75 kg) |
| Measurements | 36D-29-49 / 42-30-41 (sources vary) |
| Business Ventures | MilkNyClux clothing brand, podcast, retail shop |
| TV Appearances | HBO’s Vice, MTV’s True Life |
Real Name and Early Life in the Bronx
Born Chela Perez, the woman known globally as Chelas Way grew up in the vibrant, culturally diverse environment of the Bronx, New York. Her African-Latina heritage played a significant role in shaping her identity and the bold, unapologetic style that would later become her trademark.
Growing Up in the Bronx
The Bronx in the 1980s and 1990s was a melting pot of cultures, fashion, and hustle. Chelas Way absorbed this energy from a young age. Growing up in a tight-knit family, she was surrounded by strong women who taught her resilience and self-confidenceāqualities that would prove essential in her future career.
Unlike many social media stars who seemed to have overnight success, Chelas Way’s journey was marked by real struggles. As a young girl, she faced body image issues and societal pressure to conform to conventional beauty standards. The modeling industry at the time had little space for curvier women, especially women of color.
“I didn’t fit the mold,” she once shared in an interview. “But I realized that was my power, not my weakness.”
Family Background and Cultural Heritage
While Chelas Way keeps specific details about her parents and siblings private, she has occasionally shared glimpses of her family life on social media. Her mother, in particular, has been cited as a major inspirationāa woman who taught her the importance of self-love and standing proud in her own skin.
Her African-Latina roots gave her a unique perspective that resonates with millions of followers from diverse backgrounds. She represents a demographic that was historically underrepresented in mainstream media and fashion.
Education and Early Aspirations
Chelas Way attended school in the Bronx, though specific details about her educational background remain private. What’s clear is that she developed a passion for fashion and modeling early on. However, the path wasn’t straightforward.
Like many young people in urban neighborhoods, she faced economic challenges and limited opportunities. Traditional modeling agencies weren’t interested in her look. But rather than giving up, she recognized that social media could be her platformāa place where she could define beauty on her own terms.
The Journey to Instagram Fame
Chelas Way didn’t just stumble into social media successāshe strategically built her brand from the ground up, starting on Instagram in July 2011.
The Early Days: Building a Following
When Chelas Way first started posting on Instagram, the platform was still relatively new. She began sharing photos that celebrated her curves, her style, and her confidence. At a time when plus-size models were rarely featured in mainstream media, her content was refreshing and necessary.
Her approach was simple but effective:
- Authenticity: She didn’t try to be someone she wasn’t
- Consistency: Regular posting kept her audience engaged
- Quality: Professional-looking photos that showcased her modeling skills
- Engagement: She interacted with followers, building a genuine community
Breaking Through the Noise
What set Chelas Way apart from thousands of other aspiring models on Instagram was her “urban model with girl-next-door appeal” brand positioning. She wasn’t trying to be a high-fashion runway model or a fitness influencer. She was proudly herselfāa curvy Latina from the Bronx who loved fashion, looked good in swimwear, and wasn’t afraid to show it.
Her content strategy included:
- Swimwear and lingerie modeling shots
- Fashion and lifestyle content
- Behind-the-scenes glimpses of her life
- Body positivity messages
- Collaborations with photographers and other creators
The Viral Moments
Several posts went viral, dramatically increasing her follower count. Her hourglass figure and confident poses caught attention, but it was her personality and relatability that made people hit the follow button.
By 2015, she had amassed hundreds of thousands of followers. By 2018, she crossed the million-follower mark. Today, @therealchelasway boasts over 3 million followers, making her one of the top plus-size models on the platform.
The Algorithm Strategy
Chelas Way’s success wasn’t accidental. She understood Instagram’s algorithm before many others did:
- Posting at optimal times for engagement
- Using relevant hashtags strategically
- Creating shareable content
- Maintaining visual consistency
- Leveraging Instagram Stories and Reels
Career Milestones and TV Appearances
While Instagram was her launching pad, Chelas Way expanded her reach through strategic media appearances and opportunities.
HBO’s Vice: Strip Club Union Documentary
One of Chelas Way’s most notable TV appearances was on HBO’s Vice in 2022. The documentary profiled her story in the context of efforts to unionize sex workers, particularly pole dancers at strip clubs.
What many followers didn’t know was that Chelas Way had worked as a bartender at a strip clubāa job she found more lucrative and sustainable than stage dancing due to the high cost of living in New York City. This candid look at her background showed a side of her journey that many fans found relatable and inspiring.
The Vice appearance did several things:
- Gave her mainstream credibility
- Showed her willingness to discuss difficult topics
- Highlighted the economic realities facing many women
- Demonstrated her evolution from service work to entrepreneurship
MTV’s True Life: Body Goals
Chelas Way also appeared on MTV’s True Life, where she discussed her ever-evolving body goals and her desire to maintain proportions similar to Kim Kardashian. This episode explored the pressures of maintaining a certain look on social media and the personal journey of accepting and loving her body.
The True Life appearance was important because it:
- Showcased her personality beyond Instagram
- Addressed body image honestly
- Connected her to a younger MTV audience
- Provided behind-the-scenes insight into her life
Urban Magazines and Features
Beyond television, Chelas Way has graced the pages of various urban magazines and online publications. These features positioned her as not just an Instagram model but a legitimate fashion and lifestyle personality.
Her press coverage includes:
- Fashion magazine spreads
- Fitness and wellness publications
- Entertainment news features
- Cultural commentary pieces about body positivity
Business Ventures: From Model to Mogul
What truly sets Chelas Way apart from many social media influencers is her entrepreneurial mindset. She understood early that social media fame is fleeting unless you build real businesses around it.
The Entrepreneurial Mindset
Chelas Way didn’t just want to be an influencerāshe wanted to be a business owner. This distinction is crucial. While many content creators rely solely on brand deals and sponsored posts, she diversified her income streams through multiple business ventures.
Retail Shop Operations
Chelas Way owns and operates a retail shop, though she keeps specific location details private for security reasons. This brick-and-mortar business allows her to:
- Connect with local customers face-to-face
- Test product ideas before scaling
- Build a tangible business beyond social media
- Create employment opportunities
- Establish herself as a legitimate businesswoman
The Content Creation Business
Beyond her own brand, Chelas Way has monetized her content creation through:
- OnlyFans subscription service (with 1.6k posts, 222.7k likes, and 693 fans)
- Exclusive photo sets and content
- Custom videos and personalized messages
- Premium subscriber benefits
This platform allows her superfans to support her directly while receiving exclusive contentāa sustainable business model that doesn’t depend on brand deals or algorithm changes.
Brand Ambassador Roles
As a brand ambassador for multiple companies, Chelas Way earns consistent income through:
- Long-term partnership contracts
- Performance-based bonuses
- Product commissions
- Event appearances
Physical Stats and Body Positivity Advocacy
Chelas Way’s physical appearance is a significant part of her brand, but it’s her message about body confidence that truly resonates.
Body Measurements
| Physical Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 5’4″ – 5’5″ (163-165 cm) |
| Weight | 165-175 lbs (75 kg) |
| Bust | 36D – 42 inches |
| Waist | 29-30 inches |
| Hips | 41-49 inches |
| Body Type | Hourglass / Curvaceous |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Dress Size | 7-8 (US) |
| Shoe Size | 9.5 (US) |
The Body Positivity Movement
Chelas Way has become an inadvertent spokesperson for the body positivity movement. Her message is simple but powerful: Style and fashion have no size limit.
Her advocacy includes:
- Posting unfiltered photos showing real body textures
- Speaking openly about weight fluctuations
- Challenging fashion industry standards
- Celebrating curves and femininity
- Encouraging women to embrace their natural bodies
Overcoming Weight Struggles
Chelas Way has been transparent about her weight journey. She’s experienced fluctuations throughout her lifeāgaining weight, losing weight, and learning to love her body at every stage.
This honesty sets her apart from influencers who present a filtered, perfect image. Her followers appreciate seeing someone who looks real, faces real challenges, and still shows up with confidence.
The Comparison Game: Kim Kardashian Influence
In her True Life appearance, Chelas Way discussed wanting to maintain body proportions similar to Kim Kardashian. While some criticized this goal as unrealistic, it opened up important conversations about:
- Beauty standards in the age of social media
- The pressure to maintain a certain look
- The cost (financial and physical) of body modifications
- The importance of doing what makes YOU feel confident
Net Worth and Income Sources
Chelas Way has successfully monetized her platform, building an estimated net worth between $2 million and $2.5 million USD.
Primary Income Streams
1. Social Media Sponsored Posts
With over 3 million Instagram followers, Chelas Way can command premium rates for sponsored content:
- Estimated $8,000-$15,000 per sponsored post
- 50-100+ sponsored posts per year
- Annual earnings: $400,000-$1,500,000 from Instagram alone
2. OnlyFans and Premium Content
Her OnlyFans account provides consistent monthly recurring revenue:
- Subscription fees from hundreds of paying fans
- Exclusive content sales
- Tips and custom content requests
- Estimated monthly income: $20,000-$50,000
3. MilkNyClux Clothing Brand
Her fashion line (detailed below) generates substantial revenue:
- Online sales through e-commerce
- Wholesale partnerships
- Limited edition drops
- Estimated annual revenue: $200,000-$500,000
4. Brand Ambassadorships
Long-term partnerships with fashion and lifestyle brands:
- Off-White Active
- Chandelier Boutique
- Poster Girl Official
- Pretty Little Thing
- Skims
- Multiple smaller brand deals
5. Podcast Revenue
“The Chelas Way Experience” podcast generates income through:
- Sponsorships
- Advertising revenue
- Premium content tiers
- Estimated annual income: $30,000-$80,000
6. Retail Shop
Her brick-and-mortar retail business provides:
- Product sales
- Local brand presence
- Merchandise revenue
7. TV Appearances and Media Features
HBO, MTV, and magazine features provide:
- Appearance fees
- Increased visibility leading to more followers
- Credibility and authority
Net Worth Growth Trajectory
| Year | Estimated Net Worth | Key Milestones |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $100,000-$200,000 | Reached 500k Instagram followers |
| 2018 | $400,000-$600,000 | Crossed 1 million followers, began brand deals |
| 2020 | $800,000-$1,200,000 | Launched MilkNyClux, appeared on TV shows |
| 2023 | $1,500,000-$2,000,000 | Reached 3 million followers, diversified income |
| 2025 | $2,000,000-$2,500,000 | Expanded business portfolio, podcast success |
Financial Strategy
What makes Chelas Way financially successful isn’t just high earningsāit’s smart diversification:
- Multiple income streams reduce risk
- Business ownership builds long-term wealth
- Real estate investments (rumored)
- Building equity, not just earning income
Personal Life and Relationships
Despite her public persona, Chelas Way maintains significant privacy around her personal life.
Relationship Status
As of October 2025, Chelas Way has not publicly confirmed being in a relationship. She keeps her romantic life private, rarely posting about boyfriends or partners on social media.
This privacy is intentional. She’s stated in interviews that she wants her brand to focus on empowerment, business, and fashionānot her dating life. However, this hasn’t stopped fans from speculating and asking questions.
What We Know:
- No confirmed husband or long-term partner
- No publicized past relationships
- Keeps dating life completely separate from social media
- May be single or may be in a private relationship
Children and Family
Chelas Way has mentioned having a child in passing, though she keeps details about her son or daughter extremely private. She rarely posts about her child, presumably to protect their privacy and keep them out of the public eye.
This decision reflects a growing trend among influencers who want to protect their children from social media exposure and potential online harassment.
Her Cat Bentley
What Chelas Way does share is her love for her cat, Bentley. The fluffy feline has his own Instagram account, @meow_bentley, where Chelas occasionally posts adorable cat content.
This lighter side of her personality endears her to followers and shows there’s more to her than just modeling and business.
Sibling Relationships
Chelas has mentioned having two siblings, though she doesn’t frequently post about them. She’s indicated that family is important to her, particularly her mother, who she credits as a major inspiration.
The balance between public persona and private family life seems to be something Chelas Way navigates carefully and intentionally.
Social Media Strategy That Works {#social-media}
With millions of followers across multiple platforms, Chelas Way has clearly mastered social media. Here’s how she does it.
Platform Breakdown
| Platform | Handle | Followers | Content Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| @therealchelasway | 3+ million | Modeling shots, lifestyle, fashion, brand partnerships | |
| Instagram Backup | @therealchelasway_x2 | 115 | Backup account for security |
| @therealchela | 490,000-522,000 | Quick updates, engagement, news | |
| @chelasway | 60,000-91,000 | Community building, longer content | |
| YouTube | @chelasway4887 | 7,590+ | Video content, vlogs, behind-the-scenes |
| OnlyFans | @chelasway | 693 fans | Premium exclusive content |
Content Pillars
Chelas Way’s content follows clear themes:
1. Fashion & Modeling (60%)
- Professional photoshoots
- Swimwear and lingerie
- Street style and casual fashion
- Brand collaboration posts
2. Lifestyle & Behind-the-Scenes (20%)
- Daily life glimpses
- Travel content
- Restaurant visits
- Shopping trips
3. Business & Entrepreneurship (10%)
- MilkNyClux promotions
- Podcast episodes
- Business insights
- Motivational messages
4. Body Positivity & Inspiration (10%)
- Empowerment quotes
- Real talk about body image
- Confidence messages
- Community engagement
Posting Schedule
Consistency is key to Chelas Way’s success:
- Instagram: 3-7 posts per week
- Instagram Stories: Daily
- Twitter: 2-5 times per day
- YouTube: 1-2 videos per month
- Facebook: 2-3 times per week
Engagement Tactics
What makes her social media strategy effective:
- Authentic Voice: She sounds like herself, not a brand
- Community Interaction: Responds to comments and DMs
- User-Generated Content: Shares fan posts and art
- Controversy Avoidance: Stays away from divisive topics
- Professional Quality: High-quality images and videos
- Hashtag Strategy: Uses targeted hashtags for discovery
- Timing: Posts when her audience is most active
The Algorithm Advantage
Chelas Way understands platform algorithms:
- High engagement rates signal quality content to Instagram
- Consistent posting keeps her visible in feeds
- Stories keep her top-of-mind for followers
- Saves and shares expand her reach
- Collaborations expose her to new audiences
Brand Collaborations and Partnerships
One of Chelas Way’s biggest income sources comes from strategic brand partnerships.
Major Brand Collaborations
Off-White Active The streetwear and athletic brand has featured Chelas Way in campaigns, lending her credibility in the fashion-forward space.
Chandelier Boutique A fashion retailer that aligns with her bold, glamorous aesthetic.
Poster Girl Official Known for sexy, confident designsāa perfect match for Chelas Way’s brand.
Pretty Little Thing The UK-based fast fashion retailer regularly features curve models, making Chelas Way a natural fit.
Skims Kim Kardashian’s shapewear and clothing line has collaborated with Chelas Way, connecting her to one of the biggest names in fashion.
Types of Brand Deals
1. Sponsored Posts Single-post promotions where Chelas Way features a product or service on her Instagram feed.
2. Brand Ambassador Programs Long-term relationships where she represents a brand over months or years.
3. Affiliate Marketing Commission-based partnerships where she earns a percentage of sales from her unique links.
4. Product Gifting Free products in exchange for exposureācommon with smaller brands.
5. Campaign Features Appearing in official brand advertising campaigns, both digital and print.
How She Selects Brand Partners
Chelas Way is selective about partnerships because:
- Maintains authenticity with followers
- Protects her reputation
- Ensures brand alignment with her values
- Prioritizes long-term relationships over quick money
She typically works with brands that:
- Support body diversity and inclusion
- Offer quality products she’d actually use
- Pay fair market rates
- Respect creative control
- Align with her urban, fashion-forward aesthetic
The MilkNyClux Clothing Empire {#clothing-brand}
In 2021, Chelas Way launched her own clothing brand, MilkNyCluxāa natural extension of her fashion influence.
The Brand Story
MilkNyClux represents Chelas Way’s vision for fashion: bold, confident, size-inclusive clothing that celebrates women’s curves. The brand name itself is a play on “milk” (slang for someone or something amazing) and “NY” (New York), combined with “lux” (luxury).
Brand Positioning:
- Urban luxury fashion
- Size-inclusive (usually XS-3X or beyond)
- Bold colors and designs
- Affordable luxury ($30-$150 price range)
- Direct-to-consumer model
Product Categories
Clothing:
- Bodysuits and rompers
- Dresses (bodycon, mini, midi)
- Separates (crop tops, pants, skirts)
- Loungewear
- Activewear
Accessories:
- Jewelry
- Bags
- Sunglasses
Marketing Strategy
MilkNyClux is promoted through:
- Chelas Way wearing the pieces on her main Instagram
- Dedicated brand Instagram: @milknyclux
- Influencer seeding to other creators
- Limited edition drops creating urgency
- Behind-the-scenes content showing design process
- Customer photos and reviews
Business Model
E-Commerce Focus: The brand primarily sells online through its own website, maintaining control over:
- Profit margins
- Customer data
- Brand experience
- Inventory management
Limited Releases: Rather than maintaining constant inventory, MilkNyClux often does dropsāreleasing limited quantities of new designs. This creates:
- Excitement and urgency
- Reduced inventory risk
- Higher perceived value
- FOMO (fear of missing out) marketing
Why It Works
MilkNyClux succeeds because:
- Built-In Audience: 3 million followers ready to buy
- Trust: Fans trust Chelas Way’s style and taste
- Authenticity: She designs clothes she actually wears
- Gap in Market: Limited options for fashionable plus-size clothing
- Lifestyle Brand: It’s not just clothesāit’s a lifestyle
Chelas Way Experience Podcast
Beyond fashion and modeling, Chelas Way has expanded into audio content with “The Chelas Way Experience” podcast.
Podcast Format
The podcast covers topics including:
- Personal growth and self-confidence
- Business and entrepreneurship
- Body positivity and self-love
- Fashion and beauty
- Guest interviews with other influencers and entrepreneurs
- Behind-the-scenes stories from her journey
Why Podcasting?
The podcast serves multiple purposes:
- Deeper Connection: Allows fans to hear her voice and personality
- Monetization: Ads, sponsorships, and premium content
- Authority Building: Positions her as a thought leader
- Content Diversification: Reduces dependence on visual platforms
- Community Building: Creates a more intimate fan experience
Promotion Strategy
Chelas Way promotes her podcast through:
- Instagram page: @thechelaswayexperience
- Clips on Instagram Stories and Reels
- Cross-promotion with guests
- YouTube video versions
- Social media teasers
Guest Strategy
By featuring other influencers, entrepreneurs, and personalities, Chelas Way:
- Taps into guests’ audiences
- Provides valuable content to listeners
- Networks with other creators
- Increases credibility
Overcoming Challenges and Criticism {#challenges}
Success hasn’t come without obstacles. Chelas Way has faced and overcome significant challenges.
Early Career Struggles
Rejection from Traditional Modeling: Before Instagram, traditional modeling agencies had no interest in Chelas Way. She didn’t fit the sample size, she wasn’t tall enough, and the industry wasn’t ready for curvy Latinas.
Financial Hardship: Working as a bartender at strip clubs wasn’t glamorousāit was survival. The high cost of living in New York City made it difficult to make ends meet while pursuing her dreams.
Body Image Issues: Like many women, Chelas Way struggled with weight fluctuations and societal pressure to look a certain way. Learning to love her body was a journey, not a destination.
Online Criticism and Hate
With millions of followers comes inevitable criticism:
Body Shaming: Critics have accused her of promoting obesity or being “too much.” Her response? Confidence and continuing to do her thing.
Authenticity Questions: Some accuse her of using filters or enhancements. She’s been open about natural body fluctuations and occasionally using photo editingāhonest transparency.
Jealousy and Negativity: Success breeds haters. Chelas Way largely ignores negativity and focuses on her supportive community.
Industry Challenges
Platform Changes: Instagram algorithm changes can devastate reach overnight. Chelas Way adapted by diversifying platforms and building owned assets (email list, podcast, clothing brand).
Competition: The influencer space is crowded. Staying relevant requires constant innovation and evolution.
Monetization Uncertainty: Relying solely on brand deals is risky. That’s why she built businesses that don’t depend on social media algorithms.
How She Overcomes Adversity
1. Focus on Supporters, Not Haters: Chelas Way concentrates energy on her fans who love and support her.
2. Continuous Evolution: She doesn’t rest on past successāalways launching new projects and adapting.
3. Financial Diversification: Multiple income streams protect against platform changes or market shifts.
4. Privacy Boundaries: Keeping personal life private protects her mental health and family.
5. Community Building: A loyal community is more valuable than millions of passive followers.
Fashion Philosophy and Style Evolution
Chelas Way’s approach to fashion goes beyond what she wearsāit’s a philosophy.
Core Fashion Principles
1. Fashion Has No Size Limit Her most important message: style isn’t reserved for sample sizes. Curvy women can and should wear whatever makes them feel good.
2. Confidence Is the Best Accessory No outfit works without confidence. Chelas Way’s styling success comes from owning her look.
3. Embrace Your Body Type Rather than hiding curves, she emphasizes them. Bodycon dresses, form-fitting swimwear, and clothes that celebrate her shape.
4. Mix High and Low She’ll pair designer pieces with fast fashion, proving style doesn’t require a massive budget.
5. Urban Meets Glamour Her aesthetic blends Bronx street style with LA glamourāa unique fusion that’s distinctly hers.
Style Evolution Over the Years
Early Years (2011-2014):
- More casual, everyday looks
- Experimental with different styles
- Building confidence in front of camera
Rising Fame (2015-2018):
- Increased glamour and polish
- More professional photoshoots
- Swimwear and lingerie focus
Business Era (2019-2021):
- Brand ambassador looks
- Higher-end fashion pieces
- More diverse wardrobe
Mogul Status (2022-Present):
- Elevated, polished aesthetic
- Own clothing brand pieces
- Mix of glamour and accessibility
- Influencing fashion trends, not just following them
Signature Looks
The Bodycon Dress: Her go-to for showcasing her curves while looking elegant.
Swimwear Confidence: Bikinis and one-pieces styled with confidence and attitude.
Street Style: Casual looks that mix comfort with fashion-forward pieces.
Glam Night Out: Bold colors, cutouts, and statement pieces for events.
Beauty Routine and Aesthetic
While fashion is central, Chelas Way’s beauty routine complements her look:
- Natural makeup emphasizing eyes and lips
- Long, styled black hair (occasionally with color or wigs)
- Well-maintained manicures
- Skincare focus for photo-ready skin
Future Goals and Expansion Plans
Chelas Way isn’t resting on her achievements. She has ambitious plans for continued growth.
Business Expansion
MilkNyClux Growth:
- Opening pop-up shops in major cities
- Expanding product lines
- Potential brick-and-mortar store
- Wholesale partnerships with major retailers
New Product Categories:
- Beauty line (makeup, skincare)
- Accessories expansion
- Home goods collection
- Fragrance launch
Digital Products:
- E-books and guides
- Online courses (confidence, business, social media)
- Membership community with exclusive content
- Masterclasses and workshops
Media and Entertainment
Television Development:
- Reality show exploring her business empire
- Hosting opportunities
- Documentary about her journey
- Appearances on major talk shows
Content Creation:
- YouTube channel expansion
- Documentary-style long-form content
- Collaborations with major creators
- Netflix or streaming platform deals
Philanthropy and Giving Back
Community Investment:
- Programs for aspiring entrepreneurs in the Bronx
- Body positivity workshops for young women
- Scholarships for fashion and business students
- Mentorship initiatives
Personal Goals
Financial Security:
- Real estate investments
- Retirement planning
- Wealth building for generational impact
- Smart investments beyond social media
Work-Life Balance:
- More travel and experiences
- Quality time with family
- Self-care and wellness focus
- Building life beyond the camera
Lessons from Chelas Way’s Success
What can aspiring influencers and entrepreneurs learn from Chelas Way?
1. Authenticity Beats Perfection
Chelas Way succeeded by being herself, not by pretending to be someone else. Her realness resonates with millions.
Lesson: Don’t try to copy someone else’s formula. Find what makes YOU unique and lean into it.
2. Diversify Income Streams
Relying on one platform or income source is risky. Chelas Way built multiple businesses.
Lesson: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Build businesses, not just followings.
3. Turn Obstacles into Opportunities
Rejection from traditional modeling led her to Instagram. Criticism became fuel for confidence content.
Lesson: What looks like a roadblock might be redirecting you to something better.
4. Play the Long Game
Overnight success is a myth. Chelas Way spent years building her brand before major success.
Lesson: Stay consistent. Success compounds over time.
5. Community Over Followers
3 million followers mean nothing without genuine connection and engagement.
Lesson: Focus on building real relationships with your audience, not just accumulating numbers.
6. Invest in Yourself
Professional photos, business education, personal developmentāChelas Way invested in growth.
Lesson: You are your greatest asset. Invest in skills, knowledge, and presentation.
7. Protect Your Peace
Keeping personal life private and ignoring haters preserves mental health.
Lesson: Not everything needs to be shared. Set boundaries and prioritize wellbeing.
8. Evolve or Die
Chelas Way constantly launches new projects and adapts to platform changes.
Lesson: What worked yesterday might not work tomorrow. Stay flexible and innovative.
Comparison: Chelas Way vs. Other Plus-Size Influencers
To understand Chelas Way’s unique position, it’s helpful to compare her to other successful plus-size models and influencers.
| Influencer | Followers | Niche | Business Model | Unique Angle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chelas Way | 3M+ | Urban/Latina fashion | Clothing brand, podcast, OnlyFans | African-Latina from Bronx, urban glamour |
| Ashley Graham | 20M+ | Mainstream fashion | Books, TV, modeling | First plus-size Sports Illustrated model |
| Tess Holliday | 2.3M+ | Body activism | Modeling, advocacy | Size acceptance activism |
| Iskra Lawrence | 4.6M+ | Body positivity | Modeling, wellness | AERIE ambassador, fitness focus |
| Tabria Majors | 1.8M+ | Fashion modeling | Traditional modeling | High-fashion plus-size representation |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chelas Way’s real name?
Chelas Way’s real name is Chela Perez. She uses “Chelas Way” as her professional stage name and brand identity across all platforms.
How much is Chelas Way worth?
Chelas Way’s estimated net worth is approximately $2 million to $2.5 million USD as of 2025. Her wealth comes from multiple income streams including Instagram sponsored posts, brand ambassadorships, her MilkNyClux clothing brand, OnlyFans content, podcast sponsorships, and her retail shop business.
How old is Chelas Way?
Chelas Way is between 38-41 years old. There’s some discrepancy in sourcesāsome list her birth date as August 14, 1984 (making her 41), while others state May 1, 1987 (making her 38). She has not publicly clarified her exact birth date.
Where is Chelas Way from?
Chelas Way is from the Bronx, New York, USA. She was born and raised in this culturally diverse New York City borough and still represents her hometown proudly. Her African-Latina heritage and Bronx upbringing significantly influence her style and brand.
Is Chelas Way married or in a relationship?
As of October 2025, Chelas Way has not publicly confirmed being married or in a relationship. She keeps her romantic life extremely private and rarely discusses dating on social media. She has mentioned having a child but keeps details about her personal family life confidential.
What is Chelas Way famous for?
Chelas Way is famous for being a plus-size Instagram model and social media influencer with over 3 million followers. She’s known for her body positivity advocacy, curvaceous figure, urban fashion style, and entrepreneurial ventures including her MilkNyClux clothing brand and “The Chelas Way Experience” podcast.
What brands has Chelas Way worked with?
Chelas Way has collaborated with numerous fashion and lifestyle brands including Off-White Active, Chandelier Boutique, Poster Girl Official, Pretty Little Thing, and Skims (Kim Kardashian’s brand). She’s also been featured in HBO’s Vice and MTV’s True Life.
Does Chelas Way have her own clothing line?
Yes, Chelas Way launched her clothing brand MilkNyClux in 2021. The brand offers size-inclusive urban luxury fashion including bodysuits, dresses, activewear, and accessories. She promotes the line through her dedicated Instagram page @milknyclux.
What is Chelas Way’s Instagram handle?
Chelas Way’s main Instagram handle is @therealchelasway where she has over 3 million followers. She also has a backup account @therealchelasway_x2 and promotes her clothing brand on @milknyclux and podcast on @thechelaswayexperience.
How tall is Chelas Way?
Chelas Way is approximately 5’4″ to 5’5″ tall (163-165 cm). She weighs around 165-175 pounds (75 kg) and has an hourglass body type with measurements ranging from 36D-29-49 to 42-30-41 depending on the source.
Does Chelas Way have an OnlyFans?
Yes, Chelas Way has an OnlyFans account (@chelasway) where she posts exclusive premium content for paying subscribers. The account features 1.6k+ posts, over 222k likes, and has hundreds of dedicated fans who support her through monthly subscriptions.
What ethnicity is Chelas Way?
Chelas Way is African-Latina, representing a blend of African and Latin American heritage. This diverse background has influenced her unique look and appeal, making her relatable to a wide demographic of followers from various cultural backgrounds.
Has Chelas Way had plastic surgery?
While Chelas Way has not extensively discussed plastic surgery publicly, she has been open about body image struggles and her desire to maintain certain proportions. In her MTV True Life appearance, she discussed wanting to keep her body proportions similar to Kim Kardashian. Whether she’s had surgical enhancements remains her personal choice and private matter.
How did Chelas Way become famous?
Chelas Way became famous by consistently posting modeling and lifestyle content on Instagram starting in July 2011. Her authentic approach to body positivity, combined with her curvy figure and confident style, helped her content go viral. Strategic brand collaborations, TV appearances on HBO and MTV, and her entrepreneurial ventures further expanded her fame.
Conclusion: More Than Just an Instagram Model
Chelas Way is more than her 3 million followers or her impressive measurements. She’s a businesswoman, entrepreneur, cultural icon, and representation of what’s possible when talent meets strategy and authenticity meets hustle.
From the streets of the Bronx to building a multi-million dollar empire, her journey inspires anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t fit the mold. She proved you don’t need to fit the moldāyou can create your own.
Her legacy isn’t just in fashion or social mediaāit’s in showing countless women that their curves are beautiful, their heritage is valuable, their voices matter, and their dreams are achievable.
Whether you discovered Chelas Way through Instagram, her clothing brand, or her TV appearances, one thing is clear: she’s not just following trendsāshe’s setting them. And as she continues to evolve and expand her empire, the best chapters of the Chelas Way story are likely still to come.
