She was the first African American to be awarded "Designer of the Year" in 1997 by the Apparel Industry Board, Inc. Jermikko has been designing since the 1960s and started her own label in 1979. And now she's here here to showcase her latest line of coats.
Seen on ABC7
Model Opal Nesbitt - Up and Down Fleece-can be worn as a bustle bottom or by releasing the inside buttons as a fabulous swing. This coat is made in washable fleece . Retails at $350-375. Can be purchased at Essential Elements, Macys and Filoni in Oak Park.
Model Tanya Hill- Long swing wool melton coat with belted waist and applica floral bottom. I have added should bags Retails $998 to 1050 Essential Elements, Macys and Filoni in Oak Park,
Model Pamela Denise -Lady's Black and Gold/tan faux fur 7/8 swing coat with Fur tails accents, paper bag pockets and my always awesome printed lining i have added a great faux fur hand bag Retails at $2400-2800, SPECIAL ORDER
Model Kieron Boyd- Men's wear Gold/tan faux fur man's pull-over Retails at 398-425
Model Joan Sasson - Jermikko's Black silk taffeta Jacket and long Butte evening skirt Retail for Jacket $450 evening $590 to $625 skirt
ALL MERCHANDISE CAN BE PURCHASED AT JERMIKKO'S DESIGN STUDIO AND FACTORY, 329 W. 18TH STREET, UNIT 410- 312-563-1877 OR THE STORES LISTED ABOVE. jermikko.com and jermikkostatusbag.com
The public is also invited to our studio ,factory to purchase our overstock or sample item in all sizes at a discounted price. Call 312-563-1877
Biography
Beginning her expansive fashion career in 1972, Jermikko designed for several companies before starting her own business. Jermikko started her business in a studio apartment in 1979 with $50.00, two tree trunks for chairs,a home sewing machine, a metal card table, three yards of fabric and a 6 pound Aussie dog, Lonesome; his jobwas to act as the fabric weight. This makes Jermikkonot only the first African American owned design and clothing integrated vertical manufacturer but the longest standing as well.
Jermikko was educated at the most prestigious Fine Arts College in the nation: The School of The Art Institute, and the University of Chicago (which she attendedconcurrently). She received degrees in Fashion, Textile Design and Psychology. As a student in college, Jermikko was the recipient of numerous industry awards and scholarships; included on this list are the following awards: the "Stanley Korshak Award", "the Oscar Aronson" award,and the Public School Art Society Award. The Stanley Korshak award and apprenticeship allowed Jermikko to design garments for many of Chicago's social elite such as Mrs. Joan Kroc (wife of McDonald's foundingfather Ray Kroc), Mrs. McCormick (of the McCormick Place fame) and many more stars and celebrities.
Jermikko serves as Executive Director of Design & CEOof the Jermikko label, is a mentor to aspiring young designers, and visiting professor in fashion design for the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She is a highly visible, active participant in Chicago's fashion industry and a true champion for designing and manufacturingin Chicago.
Jermikko Collection offers fine exquisite imported Italian wools in exciting colors and intriguing bodies. Jermikko's looks are intended to "beautify the mind,body, and spirit". Modern & Contemporary Art combined with a passion for chic outerwear of the 1940's characteristically influence her designs from day to evening. Tailored to perfection, this collection implements the creative mix of textures and weaves, embroidered detail, and our signature hand-painted linings.
