Felita Harris

Meet the lady who is redesigning the tapestry of the fashion industry, FELITA HARRIS, founding board member and executive director of RAISEfashion, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to advancing equity in the fashion industry by providing probono advisory services, grant resources, and network access to BIPOC-owned brands. This esteemed network, composed of industry leaders, offers complimentary consultations to BIPOC fashion businesses, with a mission to amplify the voices of the disenfranchised. Through guiding discussions on racial equity, the organization works to create a more inclusive and equitable future for the fashion industry.

MONARCH: Before we get started, please share with us, where are you from?

FELITA HARRIS: I’m originally from Chattanooga, Tennessee, and I will say that my childhood was multifaceted. I grew up in a big family with two brothers and two sisters. At the age of 12, my mother remarried, and we moved to Italy for three years. It was a culture shock but one that I really loved—the food obviously, the people, and just the chance to experience something completely new. After living in Italy, we moved to Wichita, Kansas. That was a really different experience. I competed in pageants for a few years, and I spent a lot of time working. I held a few afterschool jobs at a very young age, and I think these different environments and experiences shaped me in unique ways, giving me a broad cultural perspective and a strong work ethic early in life.

MONARCH: When did your love affair with fashion begin?

FELITA HARRIS: My interest in fashion started early, probably around the age of six. Even then, I was very particular about my appearance, and I had just a natural sense of style. The idea of pursuing a career in fashion came much later with the encouragement of family and friends, different managers that I’ve met in retail, and just working various jobs. But I would say my love affair was just very innate and started very young.

MONARCH: What was the catalyst to launch RAISEfashion? Was there a particular incident that called you to see the inequity within the fashion industry?

FELITA HARRIS: Yes, the murder of George Floyd was absolutely the catalyst. For me, completing the diversity and inclusion certification program at Cornell University was very eye-opening. It made me aware of the many challenges I faced in my career. I spent 25 years in corporate overseeing global wholesale and franchise partnerships. And in many ways, I think I just didn’t recognize, or maybe even chose to overlook, the many things that happened in order to advance. My fellow board members and retailers were faced with the glaring truth that too many Black brands and designers were being left out of retail and the price entry was too high to compete. So I just came to a place where I decided to leverage my business experience, network, and resources to drive equity in fashion. Recognizing that success hinges on connections, business acumen, and access to critical resources, we developed a framework that we believe revolutionized the way emerging designers gain entry into luxury retail and break through the traditional barriers.

MONARCH: What are some of the challenges that you faced when you began this journey?

FELITA HARRIS: I encountered challenges from every direction in the beginning. At first, I had a lot of concerns, starting with my own future. While I believed that this was the right path for me in the beginning, I was worried about where it would lead in terms of my own career. As a single mom with significant responsibilities, the decision to pursue a social impact mission weighed heavily on me. I knew that taking this direction could have consequences for my corporate career if I ever chose to return to a traditional role. However, I ultimately found that it was worth it. This purpose-driven path has allowed me to connect talent networks and corporations, and I’m able to leverage my executive experience to support the entire ecosystem and drive meaningful change.

I would say regarding BIPOC brands, one of the biggest challenges I’ve encountered is the systemic lack of access to resources and networks. Many of these designers are incredibly talented, but they don’t have the same opportunities to connect with retailers, investors, or media that others might have. This creates a significant barrier to scaling their businesses, along with challenges in building visibility and securing distribution opportunities that drive revenue. Another challenge is overcoming the deep bias within the industry. And while we’ve made progress, there is still resistance to hiring BIPOC talent in leadership roles, such as creative directors and senior executives. The significant challenges that remain with the lack of sustained financial support has persisted over time, and many BIPOC designers continue to face difficulties in securing long-term funding or capital to grow business. Yes, we’ve made strides with grants—we deploy grants at RAISEfashion—but there’s just an ongoing need for increased investment and creating this robust financial infrastructure. It’s vital.

MONARCH: What role can RAISEfashion play in increasing inclusiveness in a cultural community in America?

FELITA HARRIS: RAISEfashion plays an important role in making the fashion industry more inclusive and connected. First and foremost, we provide BIPOC designers with access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities. That’s how we started, and it’s how we continue to help them gain the visibility they deserve and open doors that were traditionally closed—and, in some cases, still are. This diversity brings fresh, new perspectives to American fashion. We also focus on education through programs like our masterclass, where designers can develop the business skills necessary for success. For us, it’s about more than just fashion—it’s about building a supportive community that values inclusivity and growth. One of the most impactful things we do is connect designers with industry leaders, retailers, and corporate partners. This networking helps break down barriers and create opportunities that can transform their careers. Additionally, we serve as advocates. We’re constantly pushing for more diversity and representation in the fashion world, from leadership roles to fashion previews, like the one we hosted during New York Fashion Week. We’re making sure that the industry evolves in meaningful ways, and we celebrate culture through our events and collaborations. We are highlighting incredible diversity in the industry, giving people
this platform to share their stories and their talent. And in doing that, we’re not just promoting inclusiveness; we’re strengthening the cultural fabric of fashion in America.

MONARCH: RAISEfashion is a space for all communities in the world of fashion. Are other indigenous people and people of color underrepresented for the same reasons as African Americans?

FELITA HARRIS: Yes, indigenous and other communities of color are often facing the same barriers as African Americans in the fashion industry. They lack access to resources, connections, and opportunities. Systemic issues, such as underrepresentation, bias, and exclusion, affect all of these groups, which is why RAISEfashion is committed to breaking down those barriers and creating a space where all underrepresented voices can thrive. For us, it’s about leveling the playing field for everyone. I believe you’ll also notice, as we continue to evolve, a growing focus on women’s mental health and our efforts to level the playing field for underrepresented communities.

MONARCH: Ideally, what does equality in the fashion world look like?

FELITA HARRIS: Equality in the fashion world means everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the same opportunities, resources, and platforms. It looks like diverse representation in leadership roles—on runways, in design studios, in academic institutions, with investors, banks, and throughout the industry. It’s about creating a space where all voices are not only heard and valued but given a fair chance to succeed. We are constantly talking about being heard, but there is a difference in being heard and being given agency to make decisions and an opportunity to succeed. It’s very different. And so that is what equality looks like for RAISEfashion.

MONARCH: How would you describe your personal style?

FELITA HARRIS: I would describe my style as modern and refined with a touch of boldness. I love clean lines and definitely classic pieces, but I enjoy adding a statement piece or unexpected details to keep things a little interesting. For me, it’s all about confidence and balance. That’s how I would describe my style.

MONARCH: When it comes to personal style, who or where do you draw inspiration from?

FELITA HARRIS: I draw my inspiration from a mix of places, travel, art, and from the women I admire. I believe I stay true to myself. I love seeing how people from different cultures express themselves through fashion, and I’m deeply inspired by how they style themselves. I also admire icons like Diana Ross, who embodies timeless elegance. Ultimately, though, it’s about drawing from a variety of influences and making it my own.

MONARCH: Let’s have some fun. Can you name three cities that you really love for fashion?

FELITA HARRIS: I would say my top three cities are Paris for its effortless chic and timeless elegance, Tokyo for its unique street style, and Milan for its luxury and craftsmanship. So those would be my three.

MONARCH: What is one item that you simply cannot live without?

FELITA HARRIS: I love this question. I’m going to give you the most obvious, which is my phone. Because without it, I would lose touch with everything and everyone that I love and care about. So that’s just obvious. Also, my red lipstick from Sephora No. 1. If they ever stop making it, I’ll stock up because I know the day will come when they discontinue it. But honestly, my top essential would be my phone—it holds my life. Or maybe Sephora No. 1!

MONARCH: What is up next for Felita Harris and RAISEfashion?

FELITA HARRIS: Our long-term goals for RAISE are rooted in our understanding that we’ve really created something truly unique, special, and one of a kind. You can ask any designer who has been consistently a part of our network, and they will tell you RAISE is different. Our focus is on scaling and amplifying what we do best: bringing together brands, advisors, and companies that prioritize diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging as non- negotiable values—putting people before profit. Our focus is on continuously improving and expanding our platform to remain a powerful advocate for designers in the fashion industry.

MONARCH: What advice can you provide for anyone who is aspiring to make fashion their career?

FELITA HARRIS: Very simple, and it’s advice that we give in the masterclass. My advice would be to stay true to your vision and be prepared to work hard. The fashion industry can be tough, but if you are passionate, resilient, and open to learning, you will find your way. Build your network, seek out mentors, and never stop evolving. You can succeed against the odds, but you cannot give up. This industry is not for the weak. You have to have grit.