The U.S. vice president is a devoted stepmother to two adult children, who have affectionately given her a special nickname that she wears “proudly.” Among her stepchildren, only one has ventured into the arts and has attended high-profile events.
When Kamala Harris married attorney Douglas Emhoff in August 2014, she became a stepmother to his son, Cole, born in September 1994, and Ella, born in May 1999. Her stepdaughter, Ella, is an accomplished knitter who has opened up about her journey with low self-esteem while pursuing her creative passions.
Knitting became a way to focus her energy and manage hyperactivity when she was younger. Over the years, the craft evolved into an outlet for stress relief and creativity, culminating in her decision to study fine arts and textiles at Parsons School of Design.
Ella Emhoff hosts the “Ella Emhoff Likes to Knit Pop-Up” on February 11, 2023, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
In addition to her artistic pursuits, Ella has ventured into modeling, a role she initially struggled to embrace. “All of my life, I had really low self-esteem and self-confidence, so this kind of felt like a way for me to take that back,” she explained.
Ella Emhoff pictured outside Proenza Schouler on September 9, 2023, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Ella embraces her individuality in the modeling world, noting that her tattoos and body hair set her apart from the traditional image of a model. On the runway, she finds her calm by entering a focused “Zen state,” joking that she mainly avoids making eye contact with Anna Wintour.
Ella Emhoff walks the runway at the Coach fashion show on September 9, 2024, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Ella reached new heights in the fashion world when she attended the 2021 Met Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The following year, her influence was solidified when Harper’s Bazaar honored her as Icon of the Year.
Ella Emhoff attends the Met Gala on September 13, 2021, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
While Ella’s career milestones have brought her significant recognition, she has also sought guidance on navigating personal challenges. When asked about the best advice she’s ever received, Ella shared that her therapist’s advice, “Compare and despair,” reminded her to focus on herself rather than measuring her worth against others, as comparisons only lead to emptiness.
Ella Emhoff and an unidentified woman at the Democratic National Convention on August 20, 2024, in Chicago, Illinois. | Source: Getty Images
Ella’s private life has also captured public attention. She confirmed her relationship with GQ writer Sam Hine in 2021 during an interview. Known for attending fashion events together, Ella described their ideal date as experimenting with quirky market finds.
Sam Hine and Ella Emhoff attend the Thom Browne Fall runway show on April 29, 2022, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Meanwhile, Sam admired her authenticity and individuality, calling her “a true individual” and praising her refusal to conform to traditional modeling norms.
Sam Hine and Ella Emhoff attend qualifying round ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco on May 28, 2022, in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. | Source: Getty Images
The couple emphasized the importance of honest communication in their relationship, with Ella noting, “In a relationship, you’re sharing a life.” Despite their bond, they ended their relationship in the summer of 2023.
Sam Hine and Ella Emhoff attend Opening Ceremony’s 20th anniversary event on September 8, 2022, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Outside of her public life and past relationship, Ella shares glimpses of her personal joys, including her beloved dog. In February 2024, she introduced him to her Instagram followers with a playful post featuring his photo and wrote, “This is Jerry and his favorite color is orange.”
Ella Emhoff has carved a unique path as an artist, model, and designer, all while staying true to her individuality and values. Whether through her creativity, family connections, or personal joys, she continues to inspire by embracing authenticity in every aspect of her life.
