Today we’d like to introduce you to Mone’t King.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I fell in love with fashion in high school, though I didn’t think that was something I wanted my career to be in. I went to college to study political science. It wasn’t until my junior year that I realized I need to be in the fashion industry. I changed my major and never looked back.
My brand, King Of Fashion (KOF), first debuted during my time in college. My sister actually came up with the name because it was a play on our last name. I started out designing and creating custom clothes for clients. I would go to school, then go home and get right on the sewing machine. Most people don’t know this, but I never wanted to be a designer. Of course, I enjoyed making my clients happy and felt amazing after completing a garment, but I’ve always wanted to style. There’s nothing more that I want to do.
After college, I dissolved my business, you could say I put it on a shelf, to come back to it. I interned in Miami for some time, as a stylist among other things. I learned a great deal with the company like how to effectively style props, sets, photo shoots, mannequins, etc. It was truly an experience. Not long after, I packed up everything and moved to Atlanta. I didn’t have a job lined up, but I knew exactly what I wanted to achieve. I hit the pavement running looking for work and putting myself out there. It all came full circle. I ended up getting a full-time job and an internship.
My internship ended up being with Kontrol Magazine as a stylist assistant. Working here has been such an eye-opener for me. I have loved EVERY moment of it. I’ve got to work with artists and actors I wouldn’t have imagined. It has been truly humbling, to say the least. But the most significant effect this job has had is validating that this is what I’m supposed to be doing.
I took KOF off the shelf and relaunched it as a styling service. Now, my business offers personal styling/shopping, virtual styling, packing aid, closet organization, and event styling. I’m still growing clientele and still finding ways to expand on my business but I couldn’t be happier that it’s all coming into fruition. I’m a huge believer in “slow and steady wins the race.” I have to give thanks to every person I’ve ever encountered that has encouraged and supported me. And I’m so grateful for every opportunity that has come my way.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. I would say the thing I deal with the most is fear. I guess that fear stems from doubt. I don’t know that I can do something until I do it. I never really see the potential I have; the potential others see in me. It’s honestly a work in progress lol. I’ve made it this far because of my friends and family. They are my biggest supporters and pushers. Literally, KOF would still be on that shelf collecting dust, if it wasn’t for them. The move to Atlanta was hard, but it was something I had to do.
Looking back, I appreciate where I am, but I sure have a ways to go, lol.
KOF, King Of Fashion – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Fashion is the sum of everyone’s individuality. I strive to bring out that individuality in my clients. I want them to express themselves through the clothes they wear. I want them to step out of their comfort zone and open their mind to see the potential their style can reach. In fashion, there are no rules. I want my clients to not just put on clothes, but WEAR them. My business is all about expression. By offering the services I do, I believe I make it easy and efficient for my client, as well.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I believe we get too caught up in thinking we have to reach a certain age, a certain number in our bank account or a certain title to be deemed a success. I think if you can positively influence or impact and inspire the masses, you have succeeded. If you can make people happy, if you can inspire people to go after what they want and be who they are, if you can change people’s lives, with what you do for a living, I mean that’s just huge! When it comes to businesses and brands, big or small, if people can appreciate the impact you have, you’ll continue to thrive.
Contact Info:
- Email: kingoffashion00@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monetdesiree/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/monet.king.52
Image Credit:
Damien Delgado, Mone’t King
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