Jo Copeland, although somewhat unsung today, was a well-known ready-to-wear designer who shared a label with Pattullo. Jo Copeland began drawing fashion sketches and selling them to Pattullo Modes in the 1920s. After working there full time for several years, she quit to start her own business in 1930. Four years later she returned to Pattullo. By 1938 she was a partner there.
Fashion designs by Jo Copeland in the 1950s
Jo Copeland worked with a variety of silhouettes in her career, from narrow to full, but always feminine. Because of her innovation and talent, her designs were widely copied. She designed her beautifully constructed clothing directly on the figure rather than using toiles. Such quality construction required high prices.
A wizard of both cut and detail, Jo Copeland continued her work from the 1940s into the 1960s. She closed the house in 1972. Take a look at these vintage photos to see portraits of classic beauties wearing fashion designs by Jo Copeland in the 1950s.
Barbara Mullen in bolero-suit with linen blouse by Jo Copeland-Pattullo for Saks Fifth Avenue, photo by George Platt Lynes, Vogue, February 15, 1950
Dovima in shimmering Swiss faille after-dark dress by Patullo-Jo Copeland for Wm.H.Block Co., Harper’s Bazaar, September 1950
Jean Patchett in suit featuring asymmetrical collar and peplum by Patullo-Jo Copeland, Harper’s Bazaar, January 1950
Sophie Malgat in cocktail dress of rich satin brocade using Celanese yarn by Jo Copeland-Pattullo, Vogue, October 1, 1950
Gyongyi Armstrong in short dinner dress of mimosa yellow lace overlaid on matching silk taffeta by Jo Copeland, photo by Louise Dahl-Wolfe, Harper’s Bazaar, April 1951
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