I recently learned about the work of fellow Southerner and independent fashion designer Jodi Arnold.
Jodi is a native of Birmingham, Alabama who graduated from Baylor University with a degree in Fashion Design. Once she made her way to NYC, she found it hard to land design jobs, since she didn’t attend one of the top design schools like Parsons or FIT. Instead of being discouraged by this, she decided to strike out on her own, and founded her own art-inspired line, MINT Jodi Arnold. (The inspiration for the name came to her while drinking a cup of mint tea in Paris.)
Jodi designs luxury clothing which is often inspired by the many cultures of the world. The spring collection takes its inspiration from North and West Africa, and the fall 2009 designs feature earthy tones and unique beadwork inspired by the Maori People of New Zealand.
The reason I found out about Jodi’s work is because this Saturday there will be a special VIP shopping event here in New Orleans featuring the MINT Jodi Arnold collection. On May 2nd from 10am-6pm, drop by SHOP at 2728 Magazine Street for Jodi’s beautiful clothing as well as hors d’oeuvres courtesy of Coquette. Anyone who makes a purchase from the collection will also receive a giftbag including Smashbox and Too Faced Cosmetics.
Jodi’s perseverance should serve as an inspiration to young designers — she’s spent the past 9 years growing her business, her way, outside of the mainstream fashion industry.
