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

Hi Amani, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
I would definitely say consistency is key; getting up everyday giving that 100% plus more.. while still being mindful to instill balance in everything I do. Personal growth is a big one! In order to succeed, you have to become a better person as well.. that way, when you feel weak? That ‘higher self’ kicks in! Last but not least, belief in myself, like the old saying goes.. “If you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will” and I’m very conscious of that in everything I do.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Proud to say, I am a Wardrobe Stylist based out of ATL; worked with a few high end Brands. Social Media Influencer Model, and I currently own an Online Clothing Boutique called ‘distressed MANI. I sell high fashion unique ‘distressed Clothing for women.. this, is ultimately what I am MOST proud of! (Established in 2018) ‘distressed MANI gives girls “options” meaning, you can rock either side: front as the back.. or back as the front. Two outfits within ONE piece. This is what sets us aside from most distress clothing brands! Not to mention, the versatility of the clothing is endless. Crop tops, shirts, oversized shirt dresses.. dress up, or down.. rock it as a cover up to the pool, dress it up for a girls gathering. So many ways women can rock high fashion ‘distressed MANI pieces. Though, we’ve grown so much from where we started, in the beginning it wasn’t easy! Literally, introducing a ‘new style’ of ‘distress clothing to the public was a huge challenge! But networking contributed to a lot of my Online Boutique success, being featured in fashion shows: which absolutely showcased the brand better than ever! And my persistence to keep going, also, finding new ways to expand the brand, so every woman can see themselves in the clothing for sure! My biggest lesson I’ve learned along the way, is to stay true to your brand; don’t worry about who says this or that, stay focused on what you feel and have to say about your talent, art and brand. I want the world to see distress clothing in a “New Light” meaning, seeing it in more images other than distress jeans or jackets! But actual HIGH FASHION uniquely designed ‘distressed Clothing; and that is what ‘distressed MANI represents.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Most definitely taking anyone who’s visiting for brunch, on Sunday at Milk & Honey ATL, they have thee BEST brunch food.lol Possibly hit a day party too while having brunch. During the week, Lenox Mall: ATL is known for having so many great festivals in the summer! So if one is going on, – we’re there! Have a girls night, at the overnight spa in Sandy Springs. I know a lot of promoters in Atlanta, I love partying with the “Born Civil” promotion group here in Atlanta, my fave parties they’ve thrown were at Revel NightClub, so I’d deff take any of my company there on a hot girl Saturday summer night. Lol

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I give the biggest shoutout to my mom! She is my biggest support system, mentor, listening ear, encourager and the list goes on lol. My mother studied Fashion in NYC, which is who I get all my Style, inspiration and hustle from. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for the very lady who gave me life, my mom. 💗

Website: www.distressedmani.com
Instagram: the_amanisharifah
Other: ‘distressed MANI Instagram: @shop_distressedmani