Born in Senegal and raised in Paris, Haj Gueye, was trained in the business of styling those in the aristocracy. Prior to establishing the global fashion enterprise Maison de Haj, he was a third-generation designer who has worked with renowned couture houses based in the French city. Haj Gueye was mentored by Gianni Versace and was credited with designing one of the most recognizable silhouettes in cinematic history.
In 1987, Haj Gueye moved to the US to establish Maison de Haj, a fashion house that creates bespoke men's and women's garments using high-quality Italian fabrics. He also has an emerging accessory line, fashioning luxe materials such as crocodile, lizard, and ostrich, to name a few exotic skins, into purses, satchels, and briefcases. His boutique and showroom at 77 East Van Buren in Chicago, Illinois, is a testament to the textured, elite, and opulent materials with which he works.
Using his passion for connecting with and helping others, Haj Gueye works with young emerging leaders in the Chicago Bar Association, mentoring them as a stylist and helping them gain a confident presence that they need to succeed. Through the years, he has pledged his ongoing support in their personal development. He has personally fitted these individuals with tailored suits from his donation. Haj Gueye also makes time to volunteer as a mentor at Columbia College Chicago.