Okay, let’s get real about Kristen Doute. You probably know her from Vanderpump Rules, the reality show that is basically a masterclass in messy, glorious drama. But for the last few years, people have been asking: what does Kristen Doute actually do for a living? Is she still just fighting with Jax and crying about Tom? Not quite.
First, let’s address the elephant in the room—or rather, the bee in the bonnet. After being fired from Vanderpump Rules in 2020 (due to past racist actions by a castmate and her own, which she has since apologized for and worked on), Kristen had to pivot. Reality TV fame is fickle, like a moody cat. But Kristen? She’s like a resilient little weed that grows through concrete.
Today, Kristen Doute makes her living as a clothing designer, a author, and a digital creator. Oh, and she’s a mom now, too, which is basically a full-time job with no vacation days and a lot of spit-up. Let’s break down her hustle, shall we?
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She’s a Fashion Mogul (Sort Of)
Kristen launched her own clothing line called DUOTE back in 2021. The brand is all about edgy, “grunge meets glam” pieces—think leather jackets, corset tops, and accessories that scream “I’m not here to make friends.” It’s like if a 90s alt-rock band and a Hollywood stylist had a baby.
She designs everything herself, from graphic tees with bold slogans to velvet bucket hats. The line is sold online, and she often models the items on her Instagram, which is a whole other job. Pro tip: If you want to dress like you’re about to confront a cheating ex at a sushi restaurant, DUOTE is your brand.
But Wait—There’s More! She’s Also an Author
In 2022, Kristen dropped a memoir called “He’s Making You Crazy: How to Get the Guy, Get a Life, and Get Over It.” The title alone is a mood. It’s basically a survival guide for anyone who has ever dated a gaslighting narcissist (looking at you, Tom Sandoval).
The book talks about her own toxic relationships, her journey to self-love, and how she finally got her life together. It’s honest, raw, and surprisingly funny. She even includes chapters on how to spot red flags and how to stop being a “pick-me” girl. Lesson learned: Kristen knows her drama, and she’s using it to help you avoid it.
The “Influencer” Life (But Make It Unhinged)
Like every reality star, Kristen has a thriving career as an influencer. Her Instagram has nearly 2 million followers, and she partners with brands selling everything from skincare to booze. She’s the queen of sponsored posts that still feel like her chaotic bestie texting you.
Where Does Kristen Doute Live? The Valley Apartment Tour
She also does paid appearances at nightclubs and events. Yes, people still pay her to show up, take selfies, and maybe reenact a fight from 2016. It’s a living, and honestly? She’s great at it. Side note: She once showed up at a club in Ohio and the crowd screamed “TELL ME WHY” at her for an hour. She loved every second.
Don’t Forget the Podcast
Kristen co-hosts a podcast called “Sex, Love, and What Else Matters?” with her boyfriend (now fiancé) Luke Broderick. They talk about relationships, their sex life, and how to not be a disaster in love. It’s like listening to two people who’ve survived a war give you battle tips.
The podcast makes money through sponsorships and ads. Plus, it gives Kristen a platform to share her “been there, done that, got the restraining order” wisdom. She’s unapologetically herself, which is refreshing in a world of perfectly curated influencers.
And Then There’s the Baby
In 2023, Kristen gave birth to her first child, a son named Oliver. Now, she’s a full-time mom who still runs a business. She shares content about motherhood, from breastfeeding struggles to “baby’s first tantrum.” It’s relatable and messy, and she loves it.
Being a mom doesn’t pay the bills, but it fuels her content. She now does partnered posts about baby gear, toys, and postpartum health. The woman turned her uterus into a side hustle. Your move, haters.
Let’s Talk About the Drama (Because Of Course)
Kristen also makes money from being a reality TV pundit. She comments on Vanderpump Rules drama (like “Scandoval”) on social media and podcasts. News outlets pay her for interviews, and she gets thousands of clicks. She’s basically a professional ex-girlfriend with a media empire.
Where Does Kristen Doute Live? The Valley Apartment Tour
She also appeared on “The Valley” – a spin-off show about her friends. While her role is smaller, each episode adds to her paycheck. Reality TV is like an annuity: you stop working, but the residuals keep coming. Cha-ching.
So, What’s the Total Vibe?
Kristen Doute’s career is a patchwork quilt of chaos, reinvention, and sheer audacity. She’s a fashion designer, author, influencer, podcaster, mom, and occasional professional griever. She took a massive firing and turned it into a second act.
The best part? She seems genuinely happy. She’s engaged to a guy who loves her, she’s sober (she quit drinking in 2020), and she’s building a legacy that isn’t just about screaming in restaurants. She’s proof that you can be a hot mess, own it, and still make a damn good living.
The Uplifting Conclusion (I Promised)
Here’s the thing about Kristen Doute: she’s a walking reminder that your past doesn’t have to define your future. She was the villain, the crazy ex, the “mean girl.” But she did the work—therapy, apologies, and hard work—and now she’s the hero of her own story.
She’s not perfect. She still has opinions about her exes that could fill a library. But she’s thriving. She’s wearing leather pants, writing books, raising a baby, and laughing all the way to the bank. If Kristen Doute can go from being TV’s punching bag to a boss babe with a clothing line, what’s stopping you?
So next time you see her on Instagram, don’t roll your eyes. Give her a little applause. She’s out here making a living—and making it look like a party. And remember: if you ever feel like a disaster, just think, “Well, at least I’m not Kristen Doute in 2016.” But also think, “And I’m definitely not Kristen Doute in 2024—because she’s crushing it.”