Kiya Winston: The Woman Behind Style, Strength, and Success

Kiya Winston is more than just the wife of Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin. She is a self-made fashion designer, a businesswoman, and a mother of three who has built a name for herself in the world of style and design. With a background that blends athletic discipline, artistic passion, and entrepreneurial grit, Kiya has become a powerful example of how women can thrive in both family and career without compromise. This article takes a deep dive into her life, offering an in-depth look at her journey, values, and the empire she’s built through hard work and relentless dedication.

Early Life and Background

Born on January 13, 1974, in Morristown, New Jersey, Kiya Winston grew up in a household shaped by resilience. Raised primarily by her mother after her parents separated, she was taught the importance of independence and determination from an early age. Even as a child, she faced the challenge of finding clothes that fit her petite frame. Rather than accept this limitation, she took to sewing, igniting a passion that would shape her entire career.

At the age of 11, Kiya began designing her own clothes. This hands-on approach to fashion not only built her skills but also cemented her confidence. Unlike many who discover their calling later in life, Kiya’s destiny was clear even in her early years.

Education and Athletic Drive

Kiya Winston attended the College of William & Mary, where she initially pursued a pre-medical track and competed as a gymnast. Her drive and commitment as an athlete translated seamlessly into her academic and creative pursuits. It was also at William & Mary that she met Mike Tomlin, her future husband and life partner.

Despite her early focus on medicine, Kiya’s heart remained in design. She eventually made the brave decision to change direction and transferred to the University of Cincinnati’s College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning. There, she honed her craft, graduating with a degree that would become the foundation of her future brand.

A Love Story and Family Life

Kiya Winston and Mike Tomlin married in 1996. While Mike rose through the ranks of football coaching, eventually becoming one of the NFL’s most respected head coaches, Kiya supported him while nurturing her own ambitions. The couple has three children: Michael Dean “Dino” Tomlin, Mason Tomlin, and Harlyn Quinn Tomlin.

Family is at the heart of Kiya’s life. Despite her busy schedule as a business owner and designer, she prioritizes her role as a mother. She balances her responsibilities with grace, raising her children with the same strength and determination that define her professional life.

Building the Kiya Tomlin Brand

In 2014, Kiya launched her own fashion brand under her married name, Kiya Tomlin. What began as a modest endeavor quickly blossomed into a flourishing fashion business. Her designs are rooted in comfort, function, and elegance—perfectly capturing the modern woman’s needs.

Her collections feature versatile pieces that combine the relaxed comfort of loungewear with the style of high fashion. What sets her apart is not just her aesthetic, but also her commitment to ethical manufacturing. The Kiya Tomlin brand is known for using eco-friendly fabrics like bamboo, supporting sustainability in the fashion industry.

In 2018, she opened the Kiya Tomlin Work/Shop in Etna, Pennsylvania. This unique space combines design, production, and retail, creating a full-circle experience for her customers. It’s not just a store; it’s a hub of creativity and empowerment.

Professional Recognition and Achievements

Kiya Winston’s work hasn’t gone unnoticed. She’s been honored for her contributions to fashion and her efforts to empower women. In May 2025, she received the WWR Impact Award—an accolade celebrating her leadership, innovation, and advocacy for female entrepreneurship.

Through her work, Kiya has become a role model for aspiring designers and businesswomen. She regularly speaks at events and mentors young creatives, offering insights drawn from her own path to success.

Kiya Winston’s Net Worth and Financial Success

With her growing fashion line and increasing brand presence, Kiya Winston’s estimated net worth is between $2 million and $3 million. While her husband’s career in the NFL contributes to the family’s financial stability, Kiya has built her own independent wealth through smart business decisions and creative innovation.

Her business model, which focuses on direct-to-consumer retail and ethical practices, allows her to maintain both profitability and integrity. This approach continues to earn her respect in an industry often criticized for excess and exploitation.

Physical Appearance and Personal Style

Kiya Winston stands approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighs around 130 pounds. She maintains a healthy lifestyle rooted in her background as an athlete. Her style, both personal and professional, blends casual sophistication with clean, modern lines.

As a designer, she embodies her brand—approachable yet elevated. Whether she’s working behind the scenes or representing her label at fashion events, Kiya is always polished, confident, and authentic.

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Social Media Presence

Kiya Winston uses her social media platforms not only to promote her fashion line but also to share glimpses into her life, values, and creative process. Her Instagram is a curated blend of behind-the-scenes content, motivational messages, and product features.

Her online presence reflects her real-life persona: professional, elegant, and purpose-driven. She engages with her followers, supports local causes, and uplifts women across all walks of life.

Lifestyle and Daily Routine

Despite her many responsibilities, Kiya maintains a balanced and grounded lifestyle. Her mornings often start with family time and fitness, followed by a full schedule of meetings, designing, and overseeing production. Evenings are reserved for her children, ensuring she remains a present and supportive mother.

She believes in structure but allows space for creativity and reflection. Her discipline as a former athlete has influenced the way she runs her business—organized, focused, and always moving forward.

A Legacy in the Making

Kiya Winston represents the modern woman—resilient, multi-talented, and driven by purpose. Her story is one of perseverance, passion, and power. She has carved a space for herself in a competitive industry while staying true to her values and nurturing her family.

From designing her own clothes at age 11 to running a successful fashion brand, Kiya has proven that dreams backed by determination can lead to greatness. As she continues to grow her business and influence, there’s no doubt her legacy will inspire future generations.

Conclusion

Kiya Winston is not just a designer or a coach’s wife. She is a visionary leader, a compassionate mother, a fierce entrepreneur, and a symbol of what women can achieve when they lead with both heart and hustle. Her life reminds us that success isn’t one-dimensional—it’s a mosaic of love, labor, and legacy.

Whether through fashion, family, or philanthropy, Kiya Winston continues to shape the world around her with grace, strength, and style.

Be inspired by Kiya Winston’s journey—where fashion meets purpose.