Copeland, Jo, 1899-1982 (1899-1982)

Dates

• Existence: 1899-1982

Biography

Jo Copeland was born in New York City in 1899. She graduated from both the Parsons School of Design and the Art Students League. While studying at Parsons, she was spotted by Rose Amado of Patullo Modes and brought into the firm as a design trainee. She eventually became a full time designer for them. After a brief venture with Ann Sadowsky in 1930, she returned to Patullo Modes. By 1936 she became a partner and the firm changed its name to Patullo-Jo Copeland. After closing Patullo-Jo Copeland in 1970, Copeland accepted a position with Lisa Meril.

Copeland was a designer of upscale, ready-to-wear clothing, remembered for designing the woman's two-piece suit that was meant to be worn without a blouse, and for her "after five" ensembles for dinner or the theater. Her work style was unique: she draped on her own body in front of a mirror, playing with the fabric until she was satisfied. Copeland was one of the earliest designers to have her name on the garment's label and in advertising copy. Before World War II broke out, Copeland often traveled to Europe to see the couture shows. After the war, she began to stress the importance of American designs, calling on the US fashion industry to become more independent from French fashion. Copeland received the Neiman Marcus Award for best designer of the year in 1944, and in 1961, she received the award of Chevalier de l'Ordre Courtoise Français. Copeland taught at the Fashion Institute of Technology, and was on the advisory board of the Parsons School of Design. Jo Copeland passed away on March 20th, 1982.

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