Former Nurse Quits Healthcare to Launch ‘Girly’ Scrubs Business, Says Traditional Design ‘Felt Like a Big Paper Bag on Me’

**Nurse Turns Personal Struggle into Successful Scrubs Brand**

Ramina Ashfaque, a former nurse turned entrepreneur, has launched a fashion brand that caters to healthcare professionals, offering stylish and well-fitted scrubs. In an inspiring journey, she has poured her life savings into this venture, driven by her personal experiences in both the nursing profession and the world of beauty pageantry.

Initially representing Pakistan at international beauty contests, Ashfaque’s path took a significant turn following the death of her uncle, which led her to pursue nursing. However, during her time in the field, she found herself dissatisfied with the traditional scrubs available, which she described as unflattering and uncomfortable. “I was always the skinnier girl, so they all felt like a big paper bag on me,” she remarked, expressing her frustration with the standard uniforms.

In a recent interview with Local 10, Ashfaque shared how her journey with Ashh Scrubs began. Feeling uninspired by the often shapeless scrubs on the market, she decided to create her own designs. Her goal was to make scrubs that are not only functional but also fashionable—a departure from the typical healthcare uniforms.

While still working full-time as a nurse, Ashfaque began developing her brand, Ashh Scrubs. Her designs, which are tailored to a variety of body types, are available in sizes ranging from XXXS to 3XL, with options for petite, regular, and tall pant lengths. She faces unique challenges, balancing her demanding nursing shifts while nurturing her budding fashion business.

Within just three months of launching her scrubs line, Ashfaque recognised that she needed to take a leap of faith. “I bet pretty much all my savings,” she said, reflecting on the financial risk she took amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The long hours and the toll of shift work prompted her decision to invest her earnings into Ashh Scrubs, which she felt was necessary for the brand to thrive.

While starting this venture, Ashfaque encountered scrutiny from her workplace. After she and fellow nurses wore her designs in the hospital, she received pushback from superiors. Despite the stress these situations caused, including moments of emotional turmoil, Ashfaque remained steadfast. “I loved being a nurse, I still have my license,” she stated, but felt that her true calling lay elsewhere.

Ultimately, her gamble paid off. After three months of extensive effort, she opted to leave her nursing position, a decision she now describes as “the best decision I’ve ever made.” Ashfaque’s commitment and vision have already begun to bear fruit, as her brand has significantly grown in popularity.

Describing Ashh Scrubs, Ashfaque stated that they represent a blend of comfort, sophistication, and practical design. This unique combination addresses the needs of those working within the healthcare sector, who often find themselves wearing scrubs for long hours. Her mission focuses on providing garments that not only serve a functional purpose but also empower the wearer.

As the founder and chief executive, Ashfaque has set a strong example of resilience and determination. Her journey underscores the importance of following one’s passion and making bold choices in pursuit of a dream. Today, Ashh Scrubs not only fosters a sense of professionalism for healthcare workers but also exemplifies the belief that elegance and practicality can coexist even in the most demanding environments.

Through her venture, Ashfaque inspires others within the healthcare field to consider their own experiences and possibilities for innovation, proving that personal challenges can indeed spark remarkable achievements.