Draya Michele has masterfully transformed her public persona from a reality television figure to a multi-faceted entrepreneur, actress, and influential media personality. Initially gaining recognition as a cast member on VH1’s “Basketball Wives LA,” she has since cultivated a successful career that extends into the realms of fashion and entertainment. Michele’s journey is marked by a savvy use of her platform to build a business empire, most notably with her swimwear line, Mint Swim. Her story is one of ambition, strategic branding, and a persistent drive to evolve beyond her initial public introduction.
Draya Michele Overview
| Full Name | Andraya Michele Howard |
| Date of Birth | January 23, 1985 |
| Birthplace | Reading, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Profession | Fashion Designer, Actress, Media Personality, Entrepreneur |
| Known For | “Basketball Wives LA,” Founder of Mint Swim |
| Net Worth | Approximately $600,000 |
| Children | Three |
Early Life and Education of Draya Michele
Andraya Michele Howard was born on January 23, 1985, in Reading, Pennsylvania. Raised in a household of Italian and African-American descent, she navigated the complexities of a biracial identity from a young age. From her early years, Michele expressed a keen interest in the beauty and fashion industries. This passion led her to enroll in a beautification course during her school years. She attended Reading Senior High School, graduating in 2004. Though she harbored dreams of becoming a singer, she has admitted that she didn’t feel her voice was strong enough to pursue it professionally. Her ambition, however, was not to be deterred. Recognizing the limitations for a budding fashion enthusiast in her hometown, Michele made the pivotal decision to move to Los Angeles to pursue her entrepreneurial dreams.
Draya Michele’s Career
Draya Michele’s ascent in the public eye began with her appearance in music videos for prominent artists, which served as her entry into the entertainment industry. However, her breakthrough moment came in 2011 when she was cast in the VH1 reality series “Basketball Wives LA.” Her four-season tenure on the show, which concluded in 2015, provided her with a significant platform and a substantial following.
The Birth of a Fashion Entrepreneur
Even while on “Basketball Wives LA,” Michele was laying the groundwork for her future in fashion. In 2011, with an initial investment of $12,000, she launched her swimwear line, Mint Swim. The brand was born from her desire to create stylish, high-quality swimwear that catered to a variety of body types, a segment she felt was underserved in the market. Mint Swim quickly gained traction, propelled by Michele’s growing social media influence and has been worn by celebrities like Zendaya and Selena Gomez. The success of Mint Swim established her as a credible and savvy entrepreneur. Following this, she expanded her fashion empire with other ventures, including the lifestyle brand Fine Ass Girls in 2013 and the more sophisticated Beige & Coco line in 2016. Her business acumen has been a defining aspect of her career, demonstrating a keen ability to translate her personal brand into profitable enterprises.
Acting Pursuits
In addition to her entrepreneurial endeavors, Draya Michele has cultivated a career as an actress. She made her acting debut in 2015 in the television movie “Will to Love.” Since then, she has appeared in a variety of films and television series, showcasing her versatility. Her film credits include supporting roles in “The Perfect Match” (2016), “True to the Game” (2017), and “‘Til Death Do Us Part” (2017). She has also had roles in television shows such as “Star” and “L.A.’s Finest.” Michele has spoken about the challenges of transitioning from reality television to acting, emphasizing her dedication to honing her craft and taking on new challenges in the competitive Hollywood landscape.
Draya Michele Personal Life & Family
Draya Michele is a mother to three children. Her eldest son, Kniko Howard, was born when she was 17 years old. She has been open about the challenges of being a young mother. Her second son, Jru Scandrick, was born in 2016 from her long-term relationship with former NFL player Orlando Scandrick. In May 2024, she welcomed a daughter with professional basketball player Jalen Green.
Michele’s romantic life has often been in the public eye. One of her most notable relationships was with Orlando Scandrick, to whom she was engaged. Their relationship, which began in 2013, had its share of ups and downs before they ultimately parted ways in 2019. She has also been linked to other high-profile figures in the sports and entertainment industries, including a past relationship with singer Chris Brown and NFL player Tyrod Taylor. Her current relationship with Jalen Green has garnered significant media attention and some controversy due to their age difference.
Awards and Achievements of Draya Michele
While Draya Michele may not have an extensive list of formal awards, her achievements as an entrepreneur and influencer are widely recognized. She was nominated for a Shorty Award in the “Lifestyle” category, a testament to her significant impact on social media. The success of her fashion brands, particularly Mint Swim, stands as a major accomplishment, having built a million-dollar company from the ground up. Her ability to leverage her reality television fame into a sustainable and thriving business empire is a noteworthy achievement in itself. She has also been recognized as a style icon and has collaborated with major brands like Revolve.
Draya Michele Net Worth and Income
As of 2025, Draya Michele’s net worth is estimated to be around $600,000. Her income is derived from multiple streams, reflecting her diverse career. A significant portion of her wealth comes from her successful fashion lines, Mint Swim, Fine Ass Girls, and Beige & Coco. Her work as an actress in both film and television also contributes to her earnings. Furthermore, with a substantial following on social media, she generates income through brand endorsements and sponsored content, solidifying her status as a prominent influencer.
Legacy and Influence
Draya Michele’s legacy is that of a trailblazer who successfully navigated the transition from reality television stardom to respected entrepreneurship. She is often cited as an inspiration for aspiring female entrepreneurs, particularly women of color, for her ability to build a successful brand in a competitive industry. Her journey demonstrates the power of leveraging a public platform to create lasting business ventures. In the fashion world, she has made a notable impact on the swimwear market with Mint Swim, championing inclusive designs that celebrate a range of body types. Beyond business, Michele has cultivated a strong personal brand that promotes body positivity and self-confidence to her millions of followers.
Interesting Facts about Draya Michele
She initially aspired to be an aesthetician due to her early fascination with skincare.
She is a fan of the musician Frank Ocean.
Michele has expressed that she uses a fake name at Starbucks.
She has a phobia of electrical sockets.
One of her style icons is Victoria Beckham.
She enjoys cooking and has shared cooking videos with her followers.
* She has a passion for gardening and raises her own chickens, reflecting a focus on a more sustainable lifestyle.
Controversies
Draya Michele’s career has not been without controversy. Her relationship with NBA player Jalen Green has drawn considerable public discussion and criticism due to their significant age difference. Michele has addressed the criticism, at times expressing her feelings about the public scrutiny. In the past, she also faced a public dispute with her ex-boyfriend, Tyrod Taylor, over a Los Angeles home.
Social Media Presence
Draya Michele has a formidable presence on social media, which has been instrumental in the success of her brands. She has cultivated a large and engaged following across multiple platforms. Her Instagram account, in particular, serves as a powerful marketing tool for her fashion lines and a platform to connect with her audience on a personal level.
Final Words about Draya Michele
Draya Michele’s career is a compelling narrative of evolution and entrepreneurial spirit. From her beginnings on reality television, she has skillfully built a multi-faceted career that encompasses fashion, acting, and digital influence. Her journey from a public figure to a respected businesswoman is a testament to her resilience and strategic vision. As she continues to expand her business ventures and navigate the complexities of public life, Draya Michele remains a dynamic and influential figure in contemporary pop culture, consistently demonstrating her ability to adapt and thrive. Her future plans appear to be focused on the continued growth of her brands and her passion for a wellness-centered lifestyle.
