Meet the TikToker behind Ella Emhoff’s internet-breaking DNC dress
Joe Ando, a 28-year-old graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology and TikTok sensation, recently made headlines for designing the stunning off-the-shoulder dress worn by Ella Emhoff, Vice President Kamala Harris’ stepdaughter, at the Democratic National Convention. Emhoff’s gown, a blend of pale blue silk and hand-ruched tulle, drew massive attention from fashion media, with Highsnobiety deeming it “White House-worthy” and Vogue speculating that Emhoff could be one of “America’s next fashion ambassadors.” The dress marked a departure from traditional power dressing, which often involves masculine silhouettes. Instead, Emhoff embraced a softer, more feminine look that still radiated strength and elegance.
Ando admitted he was initially surprised by how much attention the dress received. When discussing his work, he explained that he often assumes that what his clients wear won’t be the center of attention. However, this dress quickly became iconic, and the public reception caught him off guard. Ando’s goal was to design something that would make Emhoff stand out in a sophisticated, modern princess way, but without being too loud or attention-seeking. The process was far from easy — after a midnight fitting, Ando worked through the early hours to make final adjustments and only saw the finished look when it aired live.
For Ando, this moment represents a major milestone in a journey that began on TikTok, where he gained 2.9 million followers by posting videos of himself approaching celebrities, asking if he could make dresses for them. His signature style of shyly introducing himself, equipped with a small microphone, was not just charming but effective. Ando has created unique designs for various celebrities, including Dakota Johnson, Rachel Zegler, and Keke Palmer. His TikToks often document his sewing process, culminating in a satisfying try-on reveal, which helped build his dedicated following.
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Despite his growing fame, Ando remains somewhat under the radar. While many designers establish themselves through traditional runway shows or celebrity endorsements at red-carpet events, Ando has managed to secure a notable client list before even launching his own label, which is set to debut in Spring 2025. His approach is unconventional, but highly successful. Most of his current commissions come directly from movie studios and record labels, though some of his A-list clients cannot be named due to legal contracts with major fashion houses.
What sets Ando apart is his humility. Although his work has been described as groundbreaking, he is more interested in the impact of the designs themselves rather than his own fame. When asked about the recognition he’s received, Ando expressed no need to become a household name like Rick Owens. He is content with being “That TikTok Guy” if it means that people appreciate the creativity behind his pieces. For him, the opportunity to experiment and push boundaries is more important than prestige.
Ando’s collaboration with Emhoff was also unique due to her active participation in the design process. Unlike many of his clients, Emhoff was highly involved, giving feedback on different fabric and silhouette options. This collaborative process stands out in Ando’s career, as he is used to working more independently. Emhoff’s choice to wear a dress from a relatively unknown, independent designer like Ando also aligns with a broader trend among political figures. Figures like Kamala Harris and Dr. Jill Biden have made statements by supporting smaller, emerging designers. Harris wore a coat by Pyer Moss, a young Black designer, at the 2021 inauguration, and Dr. Biden frequently opts for lesser-known New York-based designers. This is seen as part of a broader effort to highlight diverse talent, especially as the fashion industry recovers from the pandemic.
Though some might reduce Ando to his TikTok fame, he embraces this label, acknowledging that it allows him to work more freely. He mentioned feeling insecure about not being taken seriously but sees this as an advantage because it gives him the freedom to take risks. “If they’re not going seriously to respect me, I kind of have nothing to lose,” Ando explained, highlighting how his unique position has allowed him to explore creative ventures without the constraints of traditional fashion expectations.
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In sum, Joe Ando’s journey from TikTok dressmaker to designer for political royalty exemplifies a new era in fashion, where digital platforms can launch careers and where independent designers can take center stage in high-profile events. His collaborative work with Ella Emhoff reflects a shift in how fashion and politics intersect, with an emphasis on individuality, inclusivity, and a modern vision of power dressing. Despite his rising fame, Ando remains focused on his craft, content with letting his creations speak for themselves.