The fashion world is witnessing the rise of two powerhouse Black-owned brands: Glam-Aholic Lifestyle and Milano Di Rouge. These aren’t just about selling style; they’re about inspiring and empowering people.
Founded by Mia Ray and Milan Harris respectively, both Glam-Aholic Lifestyle and Milano Di Rouge have carved their own unique paths to success. Their journeys are testaments to resilience, creativity, and unwavering determination.
Glam-Aholic Lifestyle has reportedly achieved impressive sales of over $50 million, while Milano Di Rouge boasts sales exceeding $70 million.
This remarkable success story proves that diversity and authenticity are more than just passing trends; they’re the cornerstones of enduring achievement in the fashion industry.
Mia Ray
According to Mia, Glam-Aholic Lifestyle isn’t just a brand; it’s a movement. From its inception 14 years ago, her vision of affordable luxury has resonated with women from all walks of life. Starting with a fashion and lifestyle blog, Mia built a community of loyal followers, leveraging the power of social media to showcase her designs and connect with her audience. Her live product drops on Instagram became legendary, creating a sense of excitement and urgency that propelled Glam-Aholic Lifestyle to new heights.
Milan Harris
Similarly, Milan Harris’s Milano Di Rouge is a testament to the power of authenticity and representation. Rejecting the conventional approach of naming the brand after herself, Milan created Milano, a name that embodies her creative vision and entrepreneurial spirit. Through social media, she connected with celebrities and influencers, showcasing her designs and celebrating diversity. Her commitment to authenticity and community has created a loyal following that sees Milano as more than just a brand but as a reflection of themselves.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Both women faced challenges on their journeys to success. From navigating the complexities of the fashion industry to overcoming financial hurdles, they encountered obstacles at every turn. Yet, they persisted, learning and evolving with each setback. Their stories serve as reminders that success isn’t just about the destination but about embracing the journey, one step at a time.
One key lesson from Mia and Milan’s stories is the importance of authenticity. Mia designs clothes that she would wear herself, ensuring that each piece reflects her personal style and values. Milan, on the other hand, celebrates diversity and representation, showcasing real people of all body types wearing her creations. This authenticity has resonated with their audiences, fostering a sense of connection and loyalty that transcends mere consumerism.
Another lesson is the power of community and empowerment. Both Mia and Milan strive to uplift those around them, whether it’s through sharing stories of resilience or supporting social impact initiatives. They understand that success isn’t just measured by financial gains but by the impact one makes on others.
As Mia and Milan continue to chart their paths forward, they offer words of wisdom to aspiring entrepreneurs. Let go of negative thoughts and negative people, embrace uncertainty, and don’t be afraid to fail. Every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. With unwavering determination and a commitment to authenticity and empowerment, anything is possible.