An Ageless Model On The Fashion Industry, Personal Style & More
@JoaniJohnson6000
My personal style can be described in three words: chic, comfortable and minimalist. Nothing is too restrictive or flashy, but I like to feel modern and cool. It’s an aesthetic that has evolved over time – I’d say it’s something that’s mostly been influenced by my work. In the 80s, as a manager of a New York showroom for a jeans company, I wore their product as an example of a great fit. Following that, I spent 20 years as a corporate manager in advertising, where suits were a staple. More recently, my choices are based on what moves my mood – my relationship with fashion is much freer now.
My style choices have always been based on life experiences and requirements, be that job changes, motherhood or just my environment at the time. In fact, I’d say that last one has had the biggest influence on my style – or should I say, climate change specifically. Years ago, we had very clear seasons but now our unpredictable weather has me wearing three seasons in one week. Our changing planet calls for broader wardrobes and versatile pieces, but it’s also made me conscious of what I’m wearing and why.
At this age – or as I prefer to say, my 'level' – the idea of ‘trend’ and ‘timelessness’ is one and the same. I don’t see pieces as necessarily one or the other – they are and always have been steeped in quality and sustainability for me. The bootleg jeans I wore as a showroom manager have now made a comeback thanks to Kendrick Lamar’s Céline look at the 2025 Super Bowl. So, I know it’s time to retrieve them from my archives…
The Studio 54 era was when I enjoyed dressing the most. It was a creative time with both traditional and avant-garde choices, but everything still felt so chic. I would add Willie Wear and Stephen Burrows, and as the song goes "Halston, Gucci, Fiorucci!" They were all at their heights during this time and it’s amazing to see many of these creations and concepts reemerging on today's runways. It proves everything comes back around, so even trends can be timeless if they’re reframed or re-worn in the right way.
An item in my closet that has stood the test of time is my Norma Kamali Sleeping Bag coat. It's durable, functional and, again, timeless. That said, my answer for which pieces I’d save in a fire is different – it would be my vintage floral flounce Valentino minidress. It was a consignment item purchased for me by my husband who has since passed away. It holds memories of wonderful date nights and, thanks to its construction and design, it has withstood the test of time.
@JoaniJohnson6000
My approach to shopping and curating my wardrobe has evolved over time. I think the biggest changes have come with the introduction of online shopping and the internet. I can explore more options from a wider range of designers and curate looks on a digital moodboard, combining both existing pieces with future desires. A lot of people will say that the internet gives rise to impulse purchases, but I find it much easier to consult the various options and really think about what’s going to work in my wardrobe. Buy well and you can buy smart.
Modelling has expanded my view of the fashion industry. It has afforded me the opportunity to wear (at least for a few moments) some of the best pieces that I would never have had the chance to wear in my daily life. As someone who loves clothes and fashion, that’s thrilling. It has also given me a greater appreciation for designers, stylists and creatives – all of whom comes together to put together a vision I had never considered.
@JoaniJohnson6000 | @hotsoupny
I wouldn’t say I have a go-to look. As I said, environment and mood are often my biggest determiners in what I wear each day. I wouldn’t say I have a signature piece that makes me feel more confident either, though my go-to colour is definitely black. I also like a lot of the neutrals – grey, taupe, beige and sometimes brown. They work well on their own and can be styled together for maximum use. They also work well with my silver hair.
If I had to narrow it down to three wardrobe essentials, I wouldn’t be without a great coat – like the Norma Kamali – a good jumpsuit (specifically Donna Karen’s Playa style) and a black dress that you can style up or down depending on the occasion. I really don’t see age barriers when it comes to fashion. I think if it works for you, wear it. That said, I will not wear the babydoll dress I made in high school! Nor do I want to see ultra stiletto heels make a comeback – they’re so bad for your feet and body and also painful to wear. I just don’t see the point.
If I could raid any celebrity’s closet it would be Law Roach. Not only does he have exceptional taste, which is why his own style is so on point, he’s also a master collector of some of the finest fashion treasures out there. I’ve heard him talk about what he has in his collections and it’s the stuff of legends.
@JoaniJohnson6000 | @Thomas_Mccarty
The golden style rule I never break is not getting caught up in trends. I only focus on my own style and I don't try to wear anything that doesn’t suit my personality or lifestyle.
My suggestion to someone developing their personal style later in life is to explore, experiment and experience. The secret to great style comes down to investing in timeless, versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits that pay for themselves over time. Find out what brings you joy but always keep comfort at the forefront of your mind. Remember, fashion is more than just clothes, it’s a means of self-expression and says a lot about you, so it’s worth taking the time to find out what that is for you and how you use clothes to present who you are to the world.
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