In Conversation with Joanne Cordero Reyes

Sep 3

Tell us about your background:

I am a fashion designer originally from California with 15+ years of experience working across Paris, New York, Los Angeles, and London specialising in women’s Haute Couture, Luxury RTW, and Bridal collections.

I originally started studying Architecture at the University of Washington in Seattle. After my first year, I realized my passion for fashion design and moved to New York City. I graduated from Parsons School of Design and was nominated for Designer of the Year, Top Ten in the class. I was also fortunate to study a year abroad in Paris, France, where I honed my craft, learning other surface design techniques such as printing and hand painting on fabrics.

I began my career designing for JI HAYE, a Haute Couture brand in Paris and after graduation, I designed in New York and Los Angeles for luxury fashion brands such as Reem Acra, J. Mendel, Monique Lhuillier, and Carolina Herrera. In 2007, I founded a fashion label called Vicente Villarin. The company garnered much attention and support from the press and prominent retailers, being recognized as Top Ten New Talents by Style.com and one of the Top Five Designers to Watch by New York Magazine.

In 2012, I moved to London and furthered my experience as Head of Design for Maria Grachvogel, and my last permanent role was as a Director for Design and Development at Ralph & Russo, where I was promoted to determine an effective direction for the company on a business strategic level and to develop a surface and digital artwork design department in the company. In 2021, I left the role due to health reasons and worked remotely on custom design projects, freelancing as a design consultant, and volunteering as a charity trustee.

I have a passion for creating, and I am always eager to learn and broaden my experiences. Life changes this past year prompted me to relocate back home to Los Angeles from England and to search for my next career opportunity.

What do you wish you’d known when you started out?

To focus on being present and to know my boundaries.

Best career advice you've ever received?

"When you are given an opportunity, you should take advantage of it because you may not get another chance like it again."

"Venture outside of your comfort zone to build more advanced skills for your role or to pursue a different role."

What leadership qualities are important to you?

Mindfulness, integrity, inspiration, communication, collaboration, respect, adaptability, strategic thinking, and gratitude.

What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far?

Doing what I love while being a mother. I have learned there is no perfect balance, it is specific to each individual and requires some sacrifice.

And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?

Tailored trousers for an effortless look.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanne-cordero-reyes-georgiou-0b254518