Interested in fashion from a young age, Josephine began her career as a buyer, where she met clothing salesman Bernard Chaus in 1973. The sartorial duo traveled together on a year-long motorcycle trip across the United States, and, by the end of the journey, Josephine and Bernie decided that they were meant to go into business as partners of their own company. Bernard Chaus, Inc. was a true partnership, with Bernard running the finances and sales force and Josephine at the helm of all creative initiatives. Three years later, the partners married, and in 1986 would take the company public.

Success came quickly to the burgeoning fashion brand, and it soon lined the shelves of all major department stores across America. Bernard died in 1991, leaving Josephine at the head of the company. Surprising most veterans in the industry, the formidable Josephine refused to sell the brand. Instead, she returned to work merely a week after her husband’s death, determined to reinvigorate the business’ approach. She launched a sporty weekend line, rebranded the collection as a cohesive whole, lowered prices, consolidated production costs and expanded retail operations. With initiatives like these, Josephine restored the company to its former successes. She remained the head of Bernard Chaus, Inc. for over 20 years, serving as chairwoman and seeing the company through its momentous merger with the Camuto Group in 2012.

In November 2015, Josephine passed away, but she continues to be celebrated as a woman with an unparalleled passion for both her work and her family. Her steadfast courage and extraordinary resilience have made a lasting mark on the fashion industry and all those who knew her.