Kamala Harris Daughter: The Inspiring Journey of Ella Emhoff

When people search for “Kamala Harris daughter,” they often land on stories about Ella Emhoff, the stepdaughter of the former Vice President of the United States. Ella isn’t Kamala’s biological child, but she’s become a beloved part of the family, affectionately calling Harris “Momala.” Born into a world of creativity and later thrust into the public eye, Ella has carved out her own path as an artist, model, and designer. Her story is one of self-expression, resilience, and breaking norms in fashion and beyond. This article dives deep into her life, from her early days to her current pursuits, all while highlighting what makes her unique in today’s cultural landscape.

Ella Emhoff’s rise to fame started subtly but exploded during the 2021 presidential inauguration. Her quirky style caught the world’s attention, leading to modeling contracts and artistic ventures. As of 2025, with the current date being December 21, she’s continued to evolve, staying active in politics, art, and mental health advocacy. Let’s explore her world step by step.

Early Life and Family Background

Ella Rose Emhoff was born on May 29, 1999, in Los Angeles, California. She’s the daughter of Doug Emhoff, a successful entertainment lawyer who later became the Second Gentleman of the United States, and Kerstin Emhoff, a film producer known for her work in documentaries and commercials. Ella’s parents divorced when she was young, but they maintained a close co-parenting relationship, which Ella has often praised for its positivity.

In 2014, when Ella was 15, her father married Kamala Harris, then California’s Attorney General. This blended the family, with Ella and her older brother, Cole Emhoff, gaining a stepmother who quickly became a central figure in their lives. Ella has shared that the transition was smooth, thanks to the strong bonds formed early on. The family nickname “Momala” for Harris came from the kids themselves, symbolizing their warm relationship. Growing up in a Jewish household—Doug is Jewish—Ella was raised with those traditions, though she doesn’t strongly identify with any religion publicly.

Life in Los Angeles exposed Ella to creativity from a young age. Her mother, Kerstin, encouraged artistic pursuits, and Ella started knitting at age six, a hobby that would later define her career. The family’s supportive dynamic helped Ella navigate her teenage years, even as Harris’s political career ramped up. By the time Harris joined the U.S. Senate in 2017, Ella was starting her senior year of high school, balancing normal teen life with occasional glimpses into the political world.

Education

Ella’s educational journey reflects her passion for the arts. She attended high school in Los Angeles, where she began exploring fashion and design. After graduating, she moved to New York City to study at the prestigious Parsons School of Design, part of The New School. There, she majored in fine arts with a concentration in apparel and textiles, graduating in May 2021.

Parsons is known for nurturing innovative designers, and Ella thrived in its creative environment. She focused on sustainable fashion and experimental textiles, often incorporating knitting into her projects. Her time at Parsons wasn’t just about academics; it was where she honed her unique style, blending quirky elements like bold patterns and unconventional silhouettes. Harris and Doug celebrated her graduation publicly, with Harris tweeting her pride: “Keep dreaming with ambition and there is nothing you cannot achieve.”

Education played a key role in building Ella’s confidence. Despite early self-doubt about her appearance and body image, Parsons helped her embrace her individuality. This foundation set the stage for her professional breakthroughs.

Career in Fashion and Modeling

Ella’s entry into fashion was unexpected but meteoric. At the 2021 inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, Ella wore a standout Miu Miu coat with crystal embellishments over a Batsheva dress. The look went viral, showcasing her eclectic style—think pilgrim collars mixed with modern flair. Within days, her Instagram followers surged from 50,000 to over 300,000, and searches for Miu Miu spiked by 455%.

This buzz led to a major modeling contract with IMG Models, the agency representing icons like Gigi Hadid and Kate Moss. IMG’s president, Ivan Bart, noted Ella’s “cheekiness and joy,” saying she embodied the moment. Her first runway walk was for Proenza Schouler at New York Fashion Week in February 2021, followed by shows for Balenciaga, Miu Miu, and Simone Rocha. She’s graced red carpets, including the Met Gala in a fiery red Stella McCartney bodysuit in 2025.

Beyond modeling, Ella supports the slow fashion movement, advocating for sustainable, ethical practices. She’s part of The 3% Movement, which aims to increase women in creative director roles. Her career isn’t just about posing; it’s about using fashion to challenge norms and promote diversity.

Artistic Endeavors

At her core, Ella is an artist. Knitting, which started as a childhood stress-reliever, evolved into a business. She designs and sells handmade pieces like jackets, hats, coats, and knitted shorts through her Instagram and website. Her creations feature bright colors, stripes, and whimsical patterns, often priced between $160 and $320.

In 2021, she founded Soft Hands, a brand focused on fashion, design, and creative consulting. By 2023, she debuted “Ella Emhoff Likes to Knit” at New York Fashion Week—a pop-up showcasing mohair maxi gowns, chunky balaclavas, and sweater vests. This event highlighted her fiber art, displayed at galleries like Gotham in NYC. Ella also sells ceramics, paintings, and drawings, blending her Parsons training with personal expression.

Her art extends to community building. Through Soft Hands Knit Club (now Soft Hands Craft Club), she hosts events and a Substack for paid subscribers to craft together. This reflects her commitment to making art accessible and therapeutic, especially for mental health.

Ella’s early cameo in Bo Burnham’s 2014 “Repeat Stuff” music video hints at her creative roots. Today, her work earns her income independently, proving she’s more than a political family member—she’s a self-made artist.

Public Life and Advocacy

As “Kamala Harris daughter” in the public eye, Ella has navigated fame thoughtfully. She’s attended events like the Democratic National Convention, where she spoke in 2024, and endorsed candidates, including Zohran Mamdani for the 2025 New York City mayoral election. In a 2025 interview, she reflected on her “insane” journey as the “Second Daughter,” emphasizing political activism and mental health.

Ella advocates for the queer community, Black trans people, and body positivity. She embraces her unibrow and tattoos (around 18, some self-done during quarantine), encouraging others to celebrate uniqueness. Living in Brooklyn, she keeps a low profile but uses her platform for good, like supporting slow fashion and women’s rights.

Her public persona is authentic—cheeky, joyful, and unapologetic. Despite online trolls, she focuses on positivity, drawing advice from Harris: Stay motivated during tough times.

Personal Life

Ella’s personal life is grounded in family and self-care. She shares a close bond with her brother Cole, a film executive, and her parents. Kerstin and Harris have a friendly relationship, often attending events together. Ella dated GQ fashion writer Sam Hine in the past but keeps current relationships private.

With about 18 tattoos and a signature unibrow, Ella’s style is boldly individual. She prioritizes mental health, using knitting as therapy. In 2025, she discussed staying motivated amid “tumultuous times,” crediting Harris’s guidance.

Living in New York, Ella balances art, modeling, and advocacy. She’s not deeply involved in politics but supports progressive causes, making her a relatable figure for young people.

Conclusion

Ella Emhoff, often searched as “Kamala Harris daughter,” is a testament to blending family legacy with personal passion. From her LA roots to New York’s fashion scene, she’s built a career on creativity and authenticity. In 2025, as she continues advocating for mental health and sustainable art, Ella inspires a generation to embrace their quirks. Her story reminds us that true beauty and success come from within, not fitting molds. Whether knitting a bold sweater or walking a runway, Ella proves ambition and joy can coexist, paving the way for future artists.

FAQs

Who is Kamala Harris’s daughter?

Kamala Harris doesn’t have biological children, but her stepdaughter is Ella Emhoff, daughter of Doug Emhoff from his first marriage. Ella calls Harris “Momala” and considers her family.

What does Ella Emhoff do for a living?

Ella is a model signed with IMG, a fashion designer specializing in knitwear through her brand Soft Hands, and an artist creating textiles, ceramics, and paintings.

Where did Ella Emhoff go to school?

She graduated from Parsons School of Design in 2021 with a degree in fine arts, focusing on apparel and textiles.

Is Ella Emhoff involved in politics?

While not a politician, Ella supports progressive causes like queer rights and endorsed Zohran Mamdani in the 2025 NYC mayoral race. She stays politically active but focuses on art.

What is Ella Emhoff’s net worth?

Estimates vary, but her modeling, design sales, and art contribute to her income. Specific figures aren’t publicly detailed, but she’s financially independent through her creative work.

How did Ella Emhoff become famous?

Her viral Miu Miu coat at the 2021 inauguration led to a modeling contract and media attention, boosting her career in fashion and art.