10 questions with Traci J.Harris by Christina Stokes
Photographer Ayejhene Sneed
Traci J. Harris, known as Ace for short, is a fashion style genius. Inspired by her hard-working grandparents, Ace learned everything she needed to begin her career. Her grandmother was a master cosmetologist, event planner, musician, fashion consultant, and a first lady who kept her in the thrift stores, while her grandfather was a pastor, sold insurance, and was a professional chef who pushed her thirst for knowledge.
What inspired you to work in the fashion industry?
Growing up my peers knew me for my sense of style and out-of-the-box outfits. I was a marching band fanatic who never investigated the fashion industry. During my early years of college, I suffered a lot from Crohn’s disease which resulted in me not being able to march anymore, and it mentally broke me inside. A set of twins,“The Dunn Twins”, encouraged me to participate in a model call. They said I had “a look”. I barely wore heels at this time of my life so walking at a model call was beyond anything I could have imagined. The designer did not book me. I had no training. Later, during the week, he saw me walking at a small gig. He came up to me and said “I’ll see you next rehearsal, that was in 2014 now it's 2022 and we are planning to do a fashion show together!
The inspiration behind the mindset of creators is an amazing gift, the pain turns into something powerful. The industry does not judge, it recreates. Things that one may call ugly others may fall in love with. To have an outlet to pinpoint your differences yet make them equally as beautiful and have changed the world, how would I not be inspired?
How do you determine a client's personal style?
Virtual consultations have been a huge help this year, it helps me to get to know my clients on a personal level. I ask them “What you are planning for?” This shows me how the client sees himself or herself socially. “Would you want to dress like this often or daily?” This question simply answers the quantity of wardrobe needed. “What is a good budget to stay around?” Answering this question determines how much a client is willing to spend. After we have gathered all the information, I then do a closet sweep to see what clothing they already own. Most people buy brand new clothing at every event with my consultations. My clients will be able to build on the wardrobe that they already identify with.
How do you stay up to date on current fashion trends?
Networking events are a great way to keep up with the current fashion trends; there you see all occupations walking around with different perspectives of “trends”. Going to local fashion shows around the surrounding areas keeps you up to date with your hometown fashion –statements, because Atlanta is so diverse everyone has a different outlook on trends. Finally, I google editorial fashion shows such as Carolina Herrera and CELINE. They have a great way of making out-of-the-box editorial fashion look like everyday looks.
Do you have any other hobbies related to the fashion industry?
I began as a model in this industry, which then led into photography/creative content and then wardrobe styling. I enjoyed my time in front of the lenses from doing magazine shoots to commercials, but I was eager to be on the other side. I started to team up with photographers and supplied the models with a wardrobe. I would take pictures of my friends on my own if I had to.
How do you define fashion?
Fashion is art, an expression of one’s emotions displayed for the world to see. Fashion has broadened our minds when it comes to culture, religion, and sociability. No matter what the situation, even if you are only going to the store, you ask yourself every “What should I wear?” because subconsciously we are living in the most diverse generation of trends which applies to any way of dressing, behaving, writing, or performing that is favored at any one time or place – art.
What is your favorite part of being in the fashion industry?
The freedom of expression in the fashion industry can be interoperated in many ways. I love the feeling of putting a “look” together as I build the outfit piece by piece, I also build character. The industry teaches you that every stitch counts metaphorically and literally - and that you should not get discouraged, only inspired.
What skills do you think are necessary to be successful in the fashion industry?
Self-efficacy must be one of the most important skills necessary in this industry. Holding to myself has gotten me very far in this industry. Having personal style comfortability on and off camera was a huge thing for me, figuring this out eliminated confusion dealing with photoshoot decisions, wardrobe, and more. For example, I refused for anyone to put heat on my hair, every show I did my hair remained natural, which made me stand out and brought more exposure.
What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
I am a perfectionist, and yes, that is a good thing, but I will stay in one piece for hours because in my head “I can do better” This pushes me to be better than I was yesterday. Procrastination is a strength for me; I do my best work when I think about it down to the last hour. I can visually see in my head what I want before I start the project so even though I am starting late I end up being on time.
Can you share the greatest lesson you have learned during your time working in the fashion industry?
Stay humble and follow your first instinct. In this society especially with the use of social media, I feel that humans have forgotten that nothing is given to you. We all say that we are self-made but have made it ourselves. Everyone has had help in some way form and fashion even if it was one friend. This industry has taught me the meaning of having a supportive team.
What are some fashion tips that you would like to share with our readers?
1. Do your shopping during the off-seasons. For example, shopping for winter during the summer saves you money and you’re ahead for the next seasons building on trends.
2. Do whatever makes you happy and stay confident in yourself.
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