Jeanne Beker is one of the most influential and fabulous women in the fashion industry—in Canada and around the world. A long-time celebrity, Jeanne speaks on how she rose to the top of arts and culture media as the iconic host of TV’s Fashion Television, along with what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur. Last Friday, Jeanne became a Member of the Order of Canada during a glamorous investiture ceremony held at Ottawa’s Rideau Hall, reports Hello magazine:
Established by Her Majesty the Queen, the high civilian honour recognizes “an outstanding level of talent and service or an exceptional contribution to Canada and humanity.” Jeanne, 62, accepted her well-deserved designation on Friday, Nov. 21 wearing a gorgeous, scarlet gown from the Toronto boutique Freda’s.
On Monday (Nov. 24), the fashion entrepreneur appeared on City’s Breakfast Television Montreal, where she described what it felt like to receive the prestigious medal.
“It was very, very humbling,” she said. “No question – just about my proudest moment.”
This week also marks a new chapter in Jeanne’s incredible career, as the mother of two has unveiled her new capsule collection for The Shopping Channel, which boasts everything from jewelry to eyewear and stylish apparel.
“I pick and choose pieces that I like, I work with stylists and designers, and then I offer that to women across the country,” explained Jeanne. “Hopefully there will be things in there that resonate with [women] and empower them to make their own choices.”
The line is also a family affair, with one top in particular featuring a print that was designed by Jeanne’s artist daughter, Bekky O’Neil.
Toronto-born Jeanne started her illustrious career as an actress and mime, but soon found her calling as an arts reporter. She received accolades as co-star of the groundbreaking CHUM show The NewMusic before finding her longtime home as the gregarious host of FashionTelevision (FT), reaching 130 countries around the world and interviewing every top designer.
She is now host and segment producer of FT and FashionTelevisionChannel (the first channel of its kind in Canada), designs a collection for Hudson’s Bay (EDIT) in addition to her The Shopping Channel line and writes for numerous publications, including The Globe and Mail.