From FBI Agent to Fashion Visionary, Tess Mann Crafts Bold, Empowering Designs That Celebrate Identity
Tess Mann Atelier has emerged as a distinctive voice in the fashion industry by centering its designs on individuality and self-expression. Founded and led by Tess Mann, a former FBI agent turned fashion designer, the brand is known for creating garments that emphasize the unique identity of the wearer. Mann’s background plays a significant role in shaping her approach to design, blending strength, elegance, and intentionality into every piece. The result is clothing that tells a story, embodying the personal narratives of those who wear it.
A recent collaboration between Tess Mann Atelier and photographer John Diep captures this vision with a series of striking images featuring model Destiny Fomekung. The shoot challenges traditional notions of gender and fashion, offering a fresh look at how garments can express and even redefine identity. The images evoke a sense of self-discovery, with each piece of clothing contributing to the narrative.
One of the standout garments from this collection is “Theija,” a white silk chiffon gown from Mann’s Sophisticate collection. “Theija” features a soft, flowing drape paired with a bold cape detail, combining a sense of grace with undeniable strength. Mann herself describes the gown as a symbol of freedom, a design that speaks to the atelier’s mission of transcending conventional fashion norms. Although it can be customized in any color, the white version used in the shoot highlights the purity of the message behind the design: individuality without boundaries. The way the gown moves, especially with the cape’s ethereal presence, echoes Mann’s commitment to creating pieces that empower the wearer while maintaining a refined elegance.
Another key piece from the photo series is “Penelope,” a black silk satin gown adorned with intricate custom beading. The gown’s interplay of light and shadow in the images creates a mood of introspection, enhancing the gown’s sleek lines and sophisticated design. Mann intended “Penelope” to be a timeless statement of style. The gown’s deep black satin finish accentuates its luxurious quality, while the detailed beading adds a layer of depth that reflects both artistry and precision. Like many of the designs from Tess Mann Atelier, “Penelope” is available in various colors, but the black version underscores the atelier’s dedication to creating meaningful, elegant garments that transcend trends.
Tess Mann’s design philosophy is rooted in her belief that every person should feel seen and celebrated through what they wear. This is evident in the way she approaches each piece, ensuring that her collections are not only visually striking but deeply personal to the wearer. “I want everyone who wears my designs to feel like their true self,” Mann has said, reinforcing her belief that fashion should be about embracing who you are, not conforming to external expectations. Her background in the FBI has undoubtedly influenced her approach to fashion, particularly in her use of structured, bold silhouettes and elements like capes that evoke a sense of power and protection.
As Tess Mann Atelier prepares to showcase its upcoming collections at international fashion weeks for Spring/Summer 2025, the focus remains on themes of identity and self-expression. These new designs will continue the atelier’s commitment to creating clothing that connects on a personal level, offering a unique take on modern elegance. Tess Mann’s vision has always been about more than just the aesthetics of fashion—her designs invite the wearer to explore their own identity, free from societal constraints.
With each collection, Tess Mann Atelier continues to challenge the rigid expectations often associated with fashion. Instead, the brand offers an inclusive, thoughtful approach that ensures the wearer is central to the narrative. By focusing on timeless sophistication and meaningful design, Tess Mann has built a brand that resonates deeply with those who value personal expression through what they wear. The upcoming collections promise to further explore these themes, with Mann’s signature blend of strength and elegance continuing to shape the fashion conversation.
Attire: Tess Mann Atelier, @tessmannatelier
Photography: John Diep Photography, @johndiepphotography
Model & Agency: Destiny Fomekung, @destiny.fomekung, The Numa Network, @thenumanetwork
PR: Meredith Corning PR, @meredithcorningpr
Stylist & MUA: Yannick Vienne, @yannick_vienne
