Spotlight on Stefany Di Manno

Designer Spotlight on Stefany Di Manno Stefany Di Manno is the entrepreneur behind Di Manno Designs, LLC, a unique line of lifestyle hair accessories for women seeking upscale ponytail holders.

Stefany spent her early years in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, often spending time with her mother at Dittrich Furs. She loved fashion and design, but it wasn't until many years later that she realized it was her true calling.

At 17, Stefany moved to Miami to attend the University of Miami, where she received her degree in broadcasting and English. Shortly after college, she moved to Manhattan, working in modeling, acting, marketing and retail real estate - all the while searching for her real passion.

With her background in fashion and her entrepreneurial spirit, Di Manno Designs was born. Today, Stefany has five different luxury hairstyle colllections: Leather, Patent, Exotic Skin, Canvas and Crystallized Swarovski Elements. Each piece is beautifully crafted from high-quality materials.

What is your inspiration for your latest collections?

My main inspiration for my new canvas collection was the beach. I wanted to make a ponytail holder that people could feel comfortable wearing while they were on the beach or relaxing by a pool. I also wanted to offer an option for women out there who don't wear leather. I made my new canvas bow collection with little girls in mind. I wanted to make a collection for that age group.

Stefany Di Manno Designs Upscale Ponytail Holders

I also wanted to make a "luxury" collection, which is my new Crystal collection made with Crystallized Swarovski Elements.

I am seeing rhinestones/crystals everywhere - they seem to go over well right now, and I liked the idea of getting authorized by Swarovski to use their branding and logo. I think it adds credibility to my line, especially for the people who aren't familiar with Di Manno Designs.

Who has influenced your artistic vision the most?

I would have to say my mom and my aunt. My mom worked at Dittrich Furs as a shop manager of seamstresses, and my aunt worked as a seamstress on the side who would make many of my dresses growing up. At the time, I didn't make the connection of pursuing the fashion/accessory business, but now looking back, I realize I really did enjoy designing what I would want to wear and my aunt bringing it to "life!" It was great. I always had a really unique dress or outfit that you couldn't find in stores.

My mom would make me accessories that I would ask for like ear muffs, purses and vests at Dittrich's and everyone always commented on them and wanted to know where they could buy one! I liked wearing things that were "special" and you couldn't find anywhere.

Who are your favorite fashion accessory designers?

I don't do favorites in many categories. I like so many different designers, because they all have a different style. I like Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Tam, Black Halo, Rebecca Taylor and Betsey Johnson. As far as accessory designers, I don't have any favorites yet, as this business is still new to me.

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of the fact that I took a risk to start this company and have been working hard to try to build a name and a brand.

What is the biggest challenge you've faced in your work?

There has been a lot of challenges starting a completely new business, which I had no experience in, but I would have to say finding a manufacturer was the hardest challenge. They are very hard to find. I was referred to my manufacturer from a friend of mine.

Is there anything exciting and new on the horizon for you?

I hope so. I am featured in February's issue of In Style magazine right now. I am looking to get more great press, a national store to sell them and also getting my ponytail holders on the head of a celebrity...stay tuned.

What's the one accessory you can't live without?

I always carry my black leather pony around with me. It is basic and goes with every outfit so if I feel the need to put my hair up, I am prepared!

What's the worst hair style you've ever seen?

The ratted-out bangs from the 1980s! Disgusting! I hope that style never comes back!

What's your favorite thing to do to relax and unwind?

Well, if I had a beach near me and it were warm I would say the beach... but since I live in NYC, and it is winter, I will say I usually watch sitcoms to relax after a long day of work, and I work out in the gym.