“Live Life In Style, Consciously”
My fashion journey started after graduating from Spelman College with a degree in economics (which later came in handy when starting a business) then switching careers completely to jump into the fashion/retail industry. After working as a buyer, I started styling commercials and celebrity clientele. With the rise of social media and eCommerce, I later transitioned into the digital side of fashion creating and launching a complimentary award-winning fashion, lifestyle, and travel blog with a focus on sustainable fashion. My style was seen on the pages of Essence, Fashion Bomb Daily and more, making way for collaborations with brands like The Lip Bar and Samsung.
While blogging and digital influencing, I completed my Masters in Global Fashion Enterprise program to learn more about the business of fashion. Upon graduation, I began working with aligned fashion brands in division and eCommerce management roles. During this time I went vegan and completely transitioned my wardrobe and focus into biodegradable eco-
friendly fashion.
This lifestyle change merged with my background made way for my luxury vegan footwear line made from fruit Jo-Anne Vernay. We released The Mel Heel made from pineapples and in F/W 2020. Designed by me and handmade in Italy, Jo-Anne Vernay follows slow and circular processes, keeping luxury, uniqueness, and quality in mind. Since inception we’ve been featured in Elle, Marie Claire and supported by Samsung and Harlem’s Fashion Row. I currently run my shoe business, consult for leading retailers, and teach a fashion course to empower the next generation of fashion thinkers and doers.
