Each week we will be highlighting one of the fabulous emerging designers from Phoenix Fashion Week 2017. This week, meet fashion designer Joanne Snodgrass, the CEO and Designer of Nouvelle Palm Beach. Nouvelle Palm Beach is an apparel brand described as casual sophistication for discerning women.
Hometown: Palm City, FL
First fashion job: In 2004, I immigrated to the States (from South Africa), got married, had my daughter Talia and opened my boutique in Dallas TX . It was a year of many firsts! The only experience I had in fashion was shopping European brands. I will never forget the excitement when the first boxes arrived of products from Italy and South Africa and I started packing the shelves.
When did you know you had a passion for fashion:
-We had school uniforms and I realized that I was thinking more about what to wear on weekends and on the occasional “sivvie’ days than any of my friends.
-I cherished Vogue Magazine (only available in South Africa 2 months later than publication dates), and made the importer call me as they arrived.
– I wore Thierry Mugler and Kenzo when they were emerging brands.
Person who has impacted your life the most: I had an angel investor/ mentor at 24 when I launched Star Paper (Scholastic Stationery Business) in South Africa. It gave me the confidence to succeed as an entrepreneur, not only in that business but in future businesses.
Your biggest fashion accomplishment in your eyes: When I was on The Today Show, as a finalist out of 2000 applicants for my fashion invention – the Kimini. I won the fashion category and and felt on top of the world.
The biggest obstacle you have overcome: Funding a business as an immigrant. One does not fit into the check blocks for traditional funding!
A Designer who inspires you: Tory Burch. In a short time she launched an incredibly strong brand with a compelling story. She also keeps true to the message and image.
Favorite quote: “It’s your attitude at the beginning of a task that will determine the outcome.”
Advice to someone pursuing a career in fashion as a designer: Don’t do it for the money. It takes too long…
Favorite piece you have ever designed:
If I’m not wearing the India (boyfriend) shirt in one of the 15 colors it is available in I wear the skirt and v-neck.
For more information about Nouvelle Palm Beach and to shop online, visit nouvellepalmbeach.com.
If you would like to attend Phoenix Fashion Week 2017, you can purchase tickets here: bit.ly/PHXFW2017FABAZ. Use promo code FABAZ for a $20 gift card good towards any seat (not applicable towards standing room tickets).