We had the good fortune of connecting with Devone’ Harp and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Devone’, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process was to put forth my effort and energy into something that I actually loved doing. I wanted to make a difference in both streetwear and luxury fashion by putting out designs and creations that defied the current trends. I also started my business as a means to negate the harmful effects of fast fashion.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve always been a creative, but never felt confident enough to break out of my comfort zone into after high school. After suffering through countless dead end jobs and other failed business endeavors I finally started to gain an understanding of who I actually was. This is when Lychee Kimono was created. I always knew I didn’t want to blend into the background and that’s exactly why the clothes I create are loud and expressive. It was not an easy journey as I went through a few scamming manufacturers, people telling me my stuff was ugly or just not being accepted into the streetwear community because I gave of a different aura. Change is not always embraced with open arms, but change is inevitable and I am a walking testament. Im now on invite list to exclusive fashion events, praised for my work and actually admired by those who truely understand art and skill. I love every minute of it.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would probably start the first half of the week off somewhere in the mountains, maybe Blue Ridge to indulge in extreme sports. I live an adrenaline rush. We would eat at the local eateries and then spend the last half of the week in the city enjoying whichever brunch cafe has endless mimosas. For entertainment I’d take them to see a number of concerts or shows performing at the Mercedes Benz stadium, maybe play some games at the Third Spot and Dinner would have to be a variety of cuisines. One night could be Thai, the next night Mexican, the next Mediterranean. I’ve been meaning to take a trip to The Vault and the rooftop bar in Duluth.
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 want to thank my mother for being on me since I was a child to go to college and get a career that’s paid well with a pension. Being the rebel that I am, that only pushed me harder to achieve success through unconventional means and show her there’s more than one way to financial freedom. I also want to thank my gf and the small group of friends who have stuck by me and supported me through the process.
Website: https://Www.lycheekimono.com
Instagram: @lycheekimono
Image Credits
@terrelantoni