Check Out Fana Negussie Haile’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Fana Negussie Haile.

Hi Fana Negussie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am an Ethiopian and American born in Washington D.C. I worked in the fashion industry my whole life. In undergrad I worked on the floor at Barney’s New York. I can attribute my time at Bareny’s where I was able to cultivate and refine my style. As I worked my way up the company, I quickly realized being in the buying dept. was not for me. It was a lot of numbers, and being cooped up in an office was not conducive to my mental health ha. While I was working for Barney’s I was able to connect with other likeminded creatives, One of which was on Lebron James styling team. From there I was able to extend my network and make meaningful relationships in the industry I still maintain.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road as a creative always has ebbs and flows. There have been numerous times I wanted to leave the industry. The reality is there is still a huge wage / compensation deficit in the arts altogether. I recall my time at the Barney’s office. It was a huge reality check, and when I finally understood a lot of my colleague came from upper class / more of a stable financial background a lot of things started to “click”. These creatives that come from more of prosperous financial background most of the time will take whatever pay a company or client is giving them due to their parent’s support (directly of indirectly) In turn harm the creative that is not so fortunate.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As an Image Consultant I take pride in really understanding and anticipating my client’s needs before they know what they are. No matter the industry, whether my clients are in the NBA, Lawyer, or Restaurateur……. The rules are still the same, you want to dress for the life you want and always present yourself as such. I am know for making my clients look like better versions of themselves. I would say my use of colors and reimagine garments in new ways.

What makes you happy?
Sending time in nature, hanging out with family. Nothing is better than my mother making fresh ethiopian coffee and sitting at a table with her and the rest of my family just catching up over some yummy food.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fanahaile/
• Twitter: https://x.com/fanajacobs
• Other: [email protected]

Image Credits
Stephen Miller