Tania Kottoor, a first-generation Indian American, founded West X East, a customization-focused fashion brand inspired by South Asian culture. After designing wedding outfits for 75 family members and being featured in Vogue, Kottoor started the business in 2020. Despite initial setbacks, including pandemic-related production slowdowns and funding issues, Kottoor re-launched the brand in 2024, selling 2,000 pieces. She entered the SCORE Pitch Competition and was paired with mentor Carolyn Katz, a former venture capitalist. West X East is now seeking an angel investor to scale production and explore collaborations with bigger brands, aiming to expand its reach.
