Fall River Fashion Students Get Helping Hand from NYC Stylist Ahead of Fashion Show
Fashion students at Durfee High School in Fall River have been busy getting ready for the Fall River Public School Art Expo on May 18th and are ready to unveil their handmade fashion pieces to the community. Throughout the process, they have had the helping hand of Fall River native Jeremy Lavoie, a fashion designer turned stylist that aims to give back to the community from which he started as he continues his own journey in New York City.
A few years ago, Jeremy “Jae” Lavoie packed up and moved to NYC with his brother, Jonathan, to see where he could go with his artistic passion. The brothers started a clothing brand called JL Creative Studio and quickly gained high-profile clients, from celebrities to athletes.
Most recently, Jae has added “stylist” to his resume, working with brands such as Forever 21 and Fashion Nova to elevate the style of his clients.
His dream of being a staple in the fashion world continues to evolve, but through it all, he never forgot about his bigger mission of getting involved with Fall River schools.
When the Art & Fashion Teachers/Directors Ana Arsenio and Jacqueline Francisco reached out about their upcoming fashion show, Lavoie wasted no time getting involved.
Being able to help students find their creative passion has brought meaning to Lavoie’s life and he is thrilled to not only attend the event but to give the students real-world advice.
“I love being a mentor for them in all areas,” he said. “I try to give them the blueprint and remind them (my career) didn’t happen overnight. I give them the real and the raw and tell them there will be bumps in the road, but I went through that…the kids have gotten so hyped and passionate, it’s awesome to see.”
The fashion show, put on by the seniors of the fashion program, is one part of the Fall River Public School Art Show, showcasing all types of art from grades K-12. The seniors will showcase their art through fashion, with custom-made hoodies designed under the helpful eye of Lavoie. The students will walk the red-carpet runway as they show off their creations while Lavoie MCs the event.
The fashion show is free and open to the public, and Lavoi encourages the community to come out on May 18th and see just how talented these young fashionistas are.