Last fall I was perusing Instagram and discovered Tulle on Lace. I was immediately drawn to the aesthetic of the brand, tulle skirts in beautiful shades pink, glitter and feminine details that had me dreaming of Paris. It wasn’t long after discovering the brand I decided I had to meet the woman behind it!
After texting for a month or so, I officially met Harriet at 2017 Fashion NXT in Portland. Meeting her for the first time was like reuniting with a friend I hadn’t seen in ages. Her smile was contagious and so was her positive energy.
During the 2017 holiday season, I had the honor of collaborating with her and wearing one of her pieces. Since then we’ve met for coffee, I’ve assisted with one of her shoots and she’s gotten me hooked on Gossip Girl.
Without further ado, I’m so excited to introduce you to the AGNF Fierce Female of the Month: Harriet Anati!
Tell us about yourself ? My name is Harriet. I was born in Ghana West African and have always loved fashion. As a child, I would observe my mom who loved to sew as a hobby and I would make dresses for my dolls.
At the age of 24 I moved to New York City, where I was inspired to pursue my love for fashion even more.
Eventually I taught myself how to sew and design combining my two favorite fabrics, tulle and lace. In 2015 I started my clothing line, Tulle on Lace, after getting so many compliments on pieces I had made for myself. From there I moved to the Pacific NW and had my 1st runway show with RAW Portland. Since then my designs have been featured in various runway fashion shows, magazines, CNN commercials and publications such as the Oregonian. I believe women can do whatever they put their mind to, “Nothing is impossible to get to your dreams”.
When did you first discover your love for fashion?
My desire for fashion sparked at a young age when my first Barbie doll was gifted to me.
What inspires you?
My inspiration comes from anywhere or anything! Since I’m a girly girl, my inspiration comes from anything pretty ranging from textures of fabrics, to beautiful packaging of other products and designs from other fashion leaders.
What is your personal mission statement and how does it impact your business?
My personal mission statement is to “do what you love” based on that, I design things I love as opposed to what I think others will love. As a result, I am able to work long hours without feeling as if it’s work …it makes me love my job.
If you could give one tip to an aspiring fashion designer, what would it be?
My advice is to know or discover your aesthetic, knowing that is half the battle and it helps you to stay true to yourself and your designs.
Shop the online boutique and connect with Tulle on Lace on Instagram @tulleonlace
Thank you to Lizzie Harrell Photography! (fun fact, Lizzie Harrell and Harriet got together to create Valentine’s Day inspired images last month. When one fierce female teams up with another, amazing things happen!
I’ll be introducing you to another fierce female in March.
X.O.X.O