Draya Michele, born Andraya Michele Howard on January 23, 1985, in Reading, Pennsylvania, is a multifaceted American media personality, actress, and fashion designer. Rising to fame through reality television, she has established herself as a successful entrepreneur with several fashion lines, including Mint Swim, Fine Ass Girls, and Beige & Coco.
From her early days in Pennsylvania to becoming a recognizable figure in entertainment and fashion, Draya Michele’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and business acumen.
Quick Facts of Draya Michele
| Full Name | Andraya Michele Howard |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 23, 1985 |
| Place of Birth | Reading, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American and Italian descent |
| Occupation | Actress, Fashion Designer, Media Personality |
| Years Active | 2011–present |
| Known For | Basketball Wives LA, Mint Swim, Fine Ass Girls, Beige & Coco |
| Children | Three: Kniko Howard, Jru Scandrick, and a daughter with Jalen Green |
| Estimated Net Worth | $1 million (as of 2022) |
Early Life and Family Background
Draya Michele was raised in Reading, Pennsylvania, by her mother, Valeria Diaz. She is of mixed heritage, with an Italian mother and an African-American father. Her multicultural upbringing influenced her unique sense of style and inspired her entrepreneurial ambitions in the fashion industry.
Despite challenges growing up, Draya developed a passion for fashion and beauty early in life, setting the stage for her future career as both a media personality and businesswoman.
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
Draya first gained public attention as the girlfriend of singer Chris Brown. Her breakthrough came in 2011 when she joined the cast of VH1’s Basketball Wives LA, a reality show highlighting the lives of women connected to professional basketball players.
Capitalizing on her growing fame, she launched her first fashion line, Mint Swim, in 2011, catering to women of all shapes and sizes. This success was followed by the creation of Fine Ass Girls in 2013 and Beige & Coco in 2016, further establishing her as a prominent entrepreneur in the fashion industry.
Notable Works and Achievements
- Reality TV: Basketball Wives LA (2011–present)
- Acting: Will to Love (2015), The Perfect Match (2016), Real Husbands of Hollywood, Star
- Fashion Ventures: Founder of Mint Swim, Fine Ass Girls, and Beige & Coco
- Entrepreneurship: Known for empowering women through fashion and lifestyle brands
Draya has successfully diversified her career, balancing television appearances with acting roles and fashion business ventures, earning recognition as a versatile media personality.
Personal Life and Relationships
Draya Michele is a mother of three children:
- Kniko Howard (born 2002)
- Jru Scandrick (born 2016, with ex-fiancé Orlando Scandrick)
- Daughter (born May 12, 2024, with NBA player Jalen Green)
Draya was previously engaged to NFL player Orlando Scandrick, ending their relationship in 2019. She began dating Jalen Green in 2023 despite a 17-year age difference, embracing her personal choices openly and advocating for acceptance in love.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
As of 2022, Draya Michele’s net worth is approximately $1 million, primarily from her fashion lines and media work. She earns additional income through television appearances, acting roles, and social media brand collaborations.
Draya is known for her fashion-forward lifestyle, fitness routines, and ability to maintain her public image as a successful entrepreneur and influencer.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Fitness enthusiast who regularly shares workout routines on social media
- Has a patch of grey hair at the front, which she chooses to pluck rather than dye
- Developed a fear of electrical sockets after being shocked by a vacuum
- Advocate for women of color pursuing entrepreneurship and fashion careers
Charitable Work and Legacy
Draya Michele supports various charitable initiatives, especially those benefiting children and underserved communities. Her entrepreneurial success has inspired many young women to follow their passions in fashion and media.
She continues to use her platform to empower and mentor aspiring entrepreneurs, leaving a lasting legacy in both entertainment and business.
Future Plans and Cultural Impact
Draya Michele shows no signs of slowing down. She continues to expand her fashion empire, explore acting opportunities, and influence social media trends. Her ability to reinvent herself and maintain relevance has solidified her as a modern cultural icon, inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs and fashion enthusiasts.
