At St. Thomas University in Miami, creativity meets strategy in a powerful way. Under the umbrella of the Business School, fashion education is not just about aesthetics—it is about leadership, industry readiness, and real-world application. One of the women shaping this vision is Professor Jo Varela, a designer whose journey blends entrepreneurship, craftsmanship, and purpose. Where Business Meets Fashion at St. Thomas University Designing Confidence: Jo Varela’s path into fashion was anything but linear. She began in business school, earning her first degree in business before pursuing her passion for fashion. She later completed her master’s degree at Istituto Marangoni, one of the world’s most prestigious fashion institutions. This combination of business acumen and high-level fashion training laid the foundation for a career that now spans more than two decades. Her brand focuses exclusively on dresses for women. The inspiration behind this decision is rooted in both research and empathy. Studies show that the average woman spends approximately 16 minutes each day deciding what to wear. Over the course of a year, that adds up to nearly 90 hours spent in front of a closet. Jo saw this as an opportunity to simplify women’s lives. “If I can create one garment that a woman can simply take, put on, and feel ready to go, then I’m giving her back time and confidence,” she explains. The dress, in her vision, becomes more than clothing—it becomes a solution. It eliminates decision fatigue and empowers women to step into their day with clarity and ease. For over 20 years, Jo has led her own fashion brand, specializing primarily in the design and manufacturing of uniforms for flight attendants. This niche has allowed her to gain extensive experience not only in design but also in large- scale production, fit precision, and functionality— key elements in professional apparel. Yet beyond uniforms, her personal brand holds a special place in her heart.
Business & Creative Leadership
In the classroom, her mission is clear: prepare students for the real world. She teaches Apparel Development, where students learn how to properly take body measurements and translate those measurements into patterns—the foundation of garment construction. Rather than focusing solely on trends, she emphasizes technical mastery.
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