Since graduating from North Carolina State University, 2009 FSF Scholar Eleanor Hoffman has held positions at major fashion houses, including Vera Wang, Mara Hoffman, and Lingua Franca—but it's the deeply personal nature of bridalwear that fuels her passion today. Her current gig? Design Director for Danielle Frankel, a New York-based bridal label known for its fashion-forward silhouettes, unexpected fabric pairings, and effortlessly cool aesthetic. But just because she's dressed Queen Bey, doesn't mean she’s forgotten her roots. She's a passionate advocate for mentorship and creative access who continues to support the next generation of talent through both personal guidance and purpose-driven initiatives.
Below, Eleanor shares her thoughts on personal style, the importance of networking, and the future of fashion. Spoiler alert: It's all about collaboration.
FSF: How would you describe your personal style in three words?
Eleanor Hoffman: Classic, elevated, practical.
FSF: What’s it like to work in the bridal industry?
EH: Being in the bridal industry adds a level of connection to the end product that you don’t always get in ready-to-wear. It’s rewarding to work on garments with very specific end uses and for such a special moment in someone’s life.
FSF: What are some of the highlights of your role as Design Director at Danielle Frankel?
EH: Dressing Beyoncé for the Renaissance tour and Rebecca Hall for the Met Gala.
FSF: Is there a project you've worked on recently that you're particularly proud of?
EH: Not a project specifically, but the work that I do in general. I’m proud to be with a company that is very customer-focused and has exceptionally high standards—not only for the materials that we use and the products that we put into the world, but also for the company culture, and the relationships with our factory partners.
FSF: What is the biggest lesson you have learned through your experience with FSF?
EH: The power of networking.
FSF: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your fashion journey so far?
EH: I’ve had so many wonderful mentors throughout my journey, starting with my parents, who have always been incredibly supportive of my creative pursuits. Also, I’ve been lucky to work for many amazing women leaders in fashion. Seeing them not only lead companies and advocate for newness and innovation within the industry but also have families and raise children has been very impactful.
FSF: What role do you see mentorship playing in the fashion industry's future, and how has it impacted your career?
EH: Fashion is a fickle and often opaque industry. As much as success in the industry is all about hard work, it is also very much about who you know and the connections you make along the way. Because of this, mentorship is invaluable in providing support and connections especially for people just starting out but also for people further along in their careers seeking guidance or just a sounding board.
I wouldn’t be where I am without the connections I have made throughout my career. I continue to support others coming up in this industry because we can all learn so much from each other.
FSF: Any upcoming projects you'd like to plug?
EH: I produced a collection of rugs during COVID with the intention of building a brand that would support creative education and programming for underserved youth. While my career has led me in a different direction, I am still very passionate about finding ways to provide children with the same level of access and support as I’ve had in pursuing a creative career—or even just a hobby.
This spring, I’ll be selling my COVID endeavor products and donating a portion of the proceeds to support youth arts programs. Follow me on Instagram for more information on how to purchase and to learn about the organizations that we’ll be supporting.
FSF: Final question. The future of fashion is _____.
EH: Collaborative, intentional, innovative, and expressive.
📲 Follow Eleanor’s journey: @helloeleanor | LinkedIn
