Meet Emmanuel Dugard | Image Consultant & Personal Growth Advisor

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

Hi Emmanuel, what are you inspired by?
I’m first and foremost inspired by my older sister. She’s always been a self-starter, working for herself and going after what she wants. Her hustle and independence have given me a clear path to follow. In addition, the traditional values of honor and respect that were so prominent in past generations deeply resonate with me. These inspirations fuel my drive to create an uplifting and safe space for men, covering everything from fashion and fitness to spiritual wisdom.

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.
In a world that’s increasingly digitized and scripted, my journey stands as a testament to authenticity and tenacity. I document my life—not a curated façade, but the genuine tapestry of struggles and victories that make me who I am. Whether it’s the evolution of my style or the chronicles of my fitness journey, what you see is a man in progress. This sets me apart; my story is both a mirror and a roadmap for others.

Menswear isn’t a trend or phase for me; it’s an enduring passion that has shaped my life in profound ways. My proudest moments aren’t captured merely in likes or follows but in the rich, often challenging experiences that have brought me to where I am. Currently, I lead the style direction at a Black-Owned Men’s Boutique in Buckhead, Atl. This role isn’t just a job; it’s a platform to amplify the art of manhood through fashion.

The path here has been anything but smooth. In an industry that often thrives on name recognition, my relatively unknown status has led to moments of being underestimated and overlooked—by clients, by brands. But this only fuels my resolve. I am not in this for fleeting acclaim but for meaningful impact. I’m keenly aware that anything worth having demands patience, grit, and an unwavering focus on the long game.

One of the invaluable lessons I’ve learned is the potency of visual narrative. Your appearance isn’t mere vanity; it’s a form of communication, sometimes your first and only statement to the world. That’s why I advocate for the principle: “Dress how you want to be addressed.” Opportunities have been unlocked for me simply because I understood this principle and lived by it.

So, what should the world know about me? This is just the prelude. Though my name might not yet be a marquee attraction, my time is on the horizon. And as we press forward, know that this is not merely about attire or physical fitness but a holistic quest to redefine modern manhood, one suit, one lesson, and one soul at a time.

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.
We’d start the culinary tour at MCK, a restaurant that’s a testament to both Southern roots and modern flair. Next stop would be the exquisite Thompson Hotel in Buckhead, not just a place to sleep, but they have a beautiful rooftop bar. Jazz night at the High Museum would follow, serving as a musical conversation between cultures and generations, offering more than just melodies.

Shifting gears, we’d spend a night at Fellaship. Owned by Cam Newton, it’s a locale where cigars are the accent to significant conversations and new insights. It’s not just a place to relax; it’s a sanctuary for camaraderie and deep connections.

With the sixth day open, I’d tailor the experience based on my friend’s personal interests. Whether that’s diving into the vibrant Atlanta arts scene or exploring its historical landmarks, the day would be a tribute to their uniqueness.

In essence, Atlanta isn’t just a place; it’s a narrative, a story that engages all of your senses. This week-long experience isn’t merely about sight-seeing; it’s an intimate introduction to a city that constantly inspires and rejuvenates the soul.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I have to give the highest recognition to God. While it may sound cliché to some, His guidance has been the cornerstone of my journey. My steps are ordered by a force greater than myself, and this divine influence has shaped my path in ways unimaginable.

Similarly, I must mention my father, although perhaps not in the traditional sense. We’ve spoken only once in my lifetime, yet his absence has been a formative presence. It drove me to consciously construct the man I wanted to become—every trait he didn’t exemplify, I strive to embody. There’s no animosity toward him; his absence served as a catalyst, propelling me into my current role as a guide for others navigating the complexities of manhood.

So, the credit goes to a higher power and to the lessons learned from the gaps in my upbringing. Both have inspired me to inspire others, arming me with a sense of purpose that’s both ethical and impactful.

Instagram: instagram.com/emmanuel.dugard

Image Credits
KJ SHADE GENESIS TROFORT