Here at TTM Management we proudly represent a variety of great talent and creatives. Now we are happy to announce our latest representation collaboration with the talented stylist Jo Levy.
We are excited about our future journey with Jo, and we were able to ask Jo a few questions about her journey into fashion to find out more about her lifestyle and career.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got started in the fashion/styling industry? What inspired you to become a fashion stylist?
I’m a ‘50 something’ Leeds lass who’s been firmly rooted in Newcastle for 32 years. (But note, this takes nothing away from my global sensibilities).
Just like most little girls, I LOVED a dressing up box but unlike most, when I had an opportunity to wear something in a way in which it wasn’t intended I grabbed it! Frilly underskirts as a dress over trousers/socks and sandals is my fashion DNA! I never dressed for anyone other than myself. I was addicted to the latest trends but always made it my own, (bear in mind it was the 80’s) so nothing ever matched. To be honest, my style ethos has never changed! If it’s not meant to be worn together… Jo will wear it together!
From being a Saturday girl in the one of the best independent boutiques in Leeds, to exploring High Street brands. Thereafter, clocking up the years by exploring many areas in the fashion industry… management, buying, having my own store and visual merchandising. Fashion had me …hook, line and sinker. Becoming a stylist was a natural progression. I started off on a personal one-to-one basis – offering my wealth of valuable advice on personal style, out-fit builds and personal shopping. I still offer this service today! My raw passion over the years then evolved into a sharp commercial eye hence, enabling me to develop and secure my relationships and connections with brands, production agencies, publications, music industry I currently boast.
How long have you been a stylist, and what are some of your career highlights so far?
Showing my age (again), I’ve been a Stylist now for 30 years!
Career highlights so far? I’m going to be really boring here but every job/creative object I do is a highlight as it allows me to indulge my passion and work with other like minded creative minds. However, I must admit being voted a finalist, together with my then business partner/partner in crime Sarah Walsh MUA , for GRAZIA magazine Women Entrepreneurs, was pretty special to say the least! We had a creative session agency which caught the eye of Grazia’s creative team.
Do you draw inspiration from anywhere/ anyone when developing your creative looks?
On a personal level… my intuitive mood serves me well. My intuition is my stylist! Other than this I’m a sucker for Scandinavian street style. On a professional level… it starts from my client’s creative brief. Each job is a unique/bespoke concept. It’s up to me to fulfil their requirements with assuring their inherent ethos is respected.
Anywhere/anyone? More like everywhere/everyone!
How would you describe your signature style?
Contradictory, genuine, unapologetic and hopeful!
Are there any specific fashion risks that you’re known for taking?
It’s not so much of a risk these days, but pattern clashing is my super power! Also, if there is ever a way in which something can be worn in a different way either on the street or equally on set, trust me I’m your girl!
What are some of your favourite fashion pieces that you can’t live without?
My Ganni leopard print coat is my ‘GO TO’ throw on regardless of what I’m wearing underneath. If in doubt bring the leopard out! My (substantial) trainer collection. Sorry I can’t be more specific here as I can’t bring myself to favour one particular pair. My poor heels don’t get a look in these days.
What advice would you give to someone who is wanting to begin a career in fashion and becoming a stylist?
INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE! Encounter as many different jobs in the industry as possible. Soak up all the knowledge you learn from everywhere …shop floor to the buying department. Get yourself out there and make the opportunities. Say yes to everything (then work it out later!) Forget location, location, location. It’s all about ASSIST, ASSIST, ASSIST.
Learn about people; physically and physiologically.
Do you have a favourite fashion project that you have worked on or a collaboration?
That’s a hard one to answer. There’s been so many over the years where I’ve thought that ‘this has to be it’ then the next one comes along and that’s it! Every collaboration I’m involved with favours my raw creativity.
Do you have an upcoming project that you are excited about? And could we hear about it?
All projects I do excite me for one reason or another. I am fortunate that the majority of projects I get to work on are for publications/commercials so are often low key or hush hush until they are released/published. So, on this occasion Your Honour, no comment! LOL!
To see more of Jo Levy’s work:
Jo Levy
Or to book Jo Levy for an upcoming shoot that you have planned, please contact our team:
bookings@ttmmanagement.co.uk