The LIM Fashion Foundation has welcomed two seasoned professionals — Frances Valentine’s founder and leader Elyce Arons and GQ’s creative director at large Jim Moore to the board of directors.
In 1993, Arons cofounded of Kate Spade with the late namesake designer and her husband Andy. She played a leading role in the brand’s international growth. More than a decade later, the trio started another venture: Frances Valentine. Both labels built followings for their bright and peppy style.
Through Frances Valentine, Arons plays up positivity, having told Kate Doerge on The Safari podcast earlier this year, “Our mantra is where what makes you happy.” A graduate of Arizona State University, Arons heads up the company as chief executive officer.
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Regarding her input with the foundation, Arons stressed that “We must ensure talented individuals have every opportunity to pursue an education, and scholarships are a key part of making that possible.
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LIM FEF’s board president Arnold Cohen praised her “dedication to education, and scholarships are a key part of making that possible.”
Moore has spent the bulk of his 40-year career at GQ. He also serves as fashion director for the menswear label Todd Snyder, and first joined forces with the designer in 2016. Since that time, Snyder has established a definitive role in the American menswear business. The company recently held a fashion show, and unveiled a Rockefeller Center outpost.
With GQ, where Moore remains creative director at large, he helped to cultivate the magazine’s signature style from a traditional men’s one into a more directional barometer for fine style. He is also the author of “Hunks & Heroes: Four Decades of Fashion at GQ.”
As a self-described “brand architect and creative director at large,” Moore is represented by the Creative Exchange Agency.
He noted how LIM College students are from diverse geographical and economic backgrounds, “and can face unique challenges,” and added that if he can “contribute to amplifying their voices and nurturing their creativity,” he is “all in.”
Cohen lauded Moore for his name recognition and his hand in shaping men’s fashion and style. He also pointed out how his collaborations with “the world’s most talented photographers, designers and celebrities, as well as influential brands have made him a leader in defining contemporary men’s fashion.”
Arons and Moore are joining a robust board and are not succeeding any members who exited, according to a LIM spokesperson.