We had the good fortune of connecting with Traci Harris and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Traci, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I grew up a only child with some troubling situations. My grandmother could tell I was struggling and introduced me to musical instruments, that’s where the creativity started. My father ( even though I didn’t get to know him) was a freelance artist;I believe the two forms of artistry began to mix at a young age. Growing up I noticed that I had trouble with being able to express myself and overtime I realized that my creative side was the most effective way in expressing my emotions.

In my unique up bringing, I also had to learn to live with a Crohn’s disease which is permanent disability that can cause chronic pain within the digestive system. As the flare ups are unexpected and extremely painful, this was a huge adjustment to my life. However, being behind the style, the camera and the edits has helped me realize that despite my disability I am able to overcome and provide purpose to not only my life but to those around me.

Therefore, I use my creative background to serve as a platform of encouragement to young black females who are being raised in unique situations and/or facing life changing disabilities that may make them feel different.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve always had a passion for vintage clothing, my grandmother shopped at the local thrift stores faithfully and I fell in love. It was amazing to me how you could tell a story thru clothing, historical facts or fictional it was never a dull moment. When I went to college I was introduced to the world of modeling by a pair of extremely talented twins ( The Dunn sisters ) who pushed me to take it seriously. From that point on I had a fire burning underneath to peruse a independent career.

After learning the does and don’ts of modeling I tackled learning the camera, I’ve always had to the one “to do it all” I wanted to see my own visuals come to life.
In the year of 2019 decided to start Styled by Ace a vintage shop which specializes in personal and photo shoot wardrobe. I took my plan one step further, to the runway! I did my first appearance in a local fashion show in Atlanta ( ufkolur ) soon after that I produced my first networking and fashion show which focused on giving homage to those who passed away before us.
This past year has been a learning experience, having to balance personal and business life. Friendships, partnerships and relationships all fell down on me at one time and for a while my trust and creative process was broken. I didn’t let that stop me, I used it to motivate me to strive for a bigger goal; Happiness. I learned that taking risk, networking while staying focused on my path has opened many doors for me this past year and I’m only looking forward to more.
My work reflects the art of fashion and the message in music. A visual that everyone no matter the age lives through daily. I want to enlighten young women to love their natural beauty through the art of modeling, embrace their stories through photography and for the world to stop judging a book by its cover art.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The High museum of Art has to be one of my favorite places to go.The exhibits are put together just right with a color touch it will definitely keep you entertained! I go most of the time for peace and to gain knowledge of patterns/prints from sculptures.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to thank Dejohn Harris for being a great photographer but most importantly mentor.

Website: Www.styledbyacethrift.com

Instagram: Styl.edbyace & Kodak.t.doll

Image Credits
@kodak.t.doll @a.Laurent.j pic 2 @djnstudio pic 5

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.