Get to know: Noah Jodoin
What is your hometown? Where else have you lived?
Portland, Ore.
How much professional experience do you have in fashion or anything else related?
I have interned for two notable high-end labels. I had an internship at J. Mendel, with a heavy focus in leather and fur pattern-making and manipulation. I also had the pleasure of working for a smaller label, Tess Giberson, where I gained a plethora of information as a design intern.
When did you decide to pursue a career in fashion?
I knew I wanted to do something in the creative industries at a young age, but as I started experimenting with second-hand garments during high school, I would say around that time is when I had the epiphany about wanting to be involved in the fashion industry.
What inspires you creatively? Professionally?
I find inspiration in odd places: organic detail, geometry and cultural heritage.
What are some of the most pressing issues facing today’s fashion designers? Models? Accessory designers?
High-end designers are currently facing the issue of becoming irrelevant in a society driven by fast-fashion companies. While many labels have a wealthy loyal following, low-end knockoffs from companies like Zara and H&M erase the designer label experience and offer the same pieces at a heavily discounted price. These companies have bridged the gap between classes and for those of us who appreciate the original design, it becomes a disheartening wrong done in the industry every day.
Where do you see yourself five years from now?
Hopefully at Proenza Schouler. Or Céline.
Do you have any advise for future SCAD fashion designers or those who are preparing to enter the industry?
Never be too attached to your design, there will always be someone who isn’t going to like it. Develop a wide frame of reference (runway, editorial, etc.). Never say your favorite designer is Alexander McQueen. Never use flowers as inspiration. Never say “passion” and “fashion” in the same sentence.
How would you categorize your aesthetic?
Very androgynous, slouchy, and oversized, but still luxe and sexy. I don’t make gowns.
Who would be your dream designer to work alongside?
Phoebe Philo at CÉLINE.
When you think about the future of fashion, what do you see?
I see a marriage between the active sportswear and fashion industries. With technology becoming such a heavy influence in textile development, high-end labels have began incorporating more industrial and athletic fabrics/aesthetics.
