How La DoubleJ’s JJ Martin Created One of Fashion's Most Joyful Brands

La DoubleJ founder and creative director JJ Martin joins the podcast this week with lots to celebrate. She just opened The Lighthouse, her new five-story Upper East Side flagship, which houses not only fashion and homewares but also a dedicated "Light Temple" for meditation, sound healing, and community gatherings. Martin describes the mission behind the space as creating "raise your vibration stations," where people can connect with something beyond commerce. That philosophy has become inseparable from La DoubleJ itself. Looking back, she describes the company's origins simply: "I was just kind of following the joy rocket." Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is equally straightforward: "Follow the joy crumbs. Anything that you would do for free at night and on the weekends has value."Martin also explains how she transformed her hobby of collecting vintage clothing into one of fashion's most recognizable print-driven brands, beginning with a single silk swing dress made with historic Lake Como manufacturer Mantero. Along the way, she became an enthusiastic ambassador for Italian craftsmanship and culture.For anyone considering a career pivot, dreaming of starting a business, or simply looking for a reminder that fashion can still be joyful, this conversation offers plenty to meditate on. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices