Check Out Jo Vilaire’s Story

Hi Jo, it’s honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My love for fashion started at a young age as I used to play dressing up with my sister using our mother’s clothes. When I had to choose a career path, I was doubting between interior or fashion design. After trying interior design for a year, I realized how strong my passion for fashion was, so I decided to switch to fashion design and study in Barcelona. After finishing my Bachelor’s and Masters moved to Madrid to intern and work as a stylist for several well-known fashion magazines such as S Moda, Vanidad and Icon. After two years, I moved to New York to improve my English and try my luck in America. I did some internships until I got the chance to assist Julia Von Boehm. Thanks to that opportunity, I was involved in big productions and campaigns like H&M, Simon Malls, Lancome and Vogue to name a few. Since I’ve always been a little nomad, I relocated to Los Angeles where I’ve been freelancing and assisting several stylists while creating a brand with my sister back in Spain called Gel.bert.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been a constant test of my patience, but I’ve learned that patience is the key for success. I started from the bottom without having any connections in the industry and got where I am today working hard and being humble. And I must admit that I am so proud of everything I’ve accomplished and all the experiences that led me to where I stand.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a stylist, I create and execute conceptual themes for magazine editorials, print campaigns, wardrobe assessments for commercial as well as private clients, develop and maintain strong communication and business relations with various vendors, suppliers and designers. My role with my own brand, Gel·bert, outside of owning it, goes from designing my products, sourcing the provider, creative directing as well as styling for all shoots. To say I’m proud to make a living out of my passion and working in this industry doesn’t say enough. I love the pace and the constant change that occurs as it keeps me on my toes, constantly inspired and motivated. As far as my personal style, I like to think of it as very particular. Mixing in French classic style habit of rock and roll and with a loud splash of no effort. I find myself constantly mixing high and low to create practical, affordable and relaxed but strong looks.

What makes you happy?
Family time is everything to me. Being around my loved ones and pets does it all for me. As as I said before, I’m a bit of a nomad so traveling always plays a role in my happiness. During the summer and holidays, I usually travel back to Mallorca where my family is to enjoy life here. Summer is definitely my favorite time to go back and live it up on the sea and travel to some of my favorite surrounding places.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.jovilaire.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/jovilaire

Image Credits
Ruben Tomas Lukas Chmiel Julio Feroz Susanne Kindt