This philosophy comes to life beyond the classroom as well. This Thursday, Jo is hosting a runway event that showcases collaboration across different academic levels. She paired Apparel Development I students with Apparel Development III students— bringing together freshmen and seniors to work as creative teams. Each team was assigned an iconic designer as inspiration, including legendary fashion houses such as Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent. The younger students are responsible for constructing skirts, while the more advanced students are designing blazers. Together, they must create a cohesive look that reflects the essence of their assigned designer. Awards will be given in three categories: Best Skirt, Best Blazer, and Best Overall Designer Interpretation. The runway is more than a fashion show—it is a live demonstration of teamwork, mentorship, creativity, and applied technical skill. By blending foundational craftsmanship with business insight and collaborative experience, Jo Varela is shaping more than garments—she is shaping leaders. At the intersection of business and fashion, confidence becomes wearable. And at St. Thomas University, students are learning that true design is not just about what we wear—it’s about how we build, lead, and innovate in a constantly evolving world.
“When students leave campus, I want them to be able to create whatever they envision,” she says. “If they know how to measure correctly and construct a garment properly, they have the essential tools to survive in the fashion industry.” The fashion world is known for its rapid pace and constant evolution. Trends change overnight, technologies advance, and consumer demands shift quickly. Jo believes that by grounding students in technical fundamentals—pattern- making, construction, precision—she is building ethical leaders who can adapt and thrive regardless of industry changes. Her goal is not just to produce designers, but industry-ready professionals who understand standards, quality control, and accountability. By integrating business principles into fashion education, students gain a realistic understanding of production costs, branding, market positioning, and sustainability.
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