On one of her favourite collections
My collections are like children and hard to choose a favourite but if I had to name one , it would be Noir which debuted in 2010 at Fashion Week at Barranquilla Colombia . This collection challenged me to design outfits using black fabric only and to create a “ pallette ” of black by layering fabrics , anticipating the illusion of colour over the wearer ’ s skin tones . It also gave me a chance to innovatively experiment with design techniques of raw edges , beading , top stitching and distressed fabrics also inspired by origami .
On her most memorable runway appearance
Participating in Dominicana Moda has been a wonderful experience , not only from the runway experience which the audience sees , but from the back end where all the work happens . Socrates McKinney , the artistic director has every detail under control ; from the model auditions , fitting and adjusting the clothes , hair , makeup and the staging of the show is seamless and stress free . What I especially like about him is that he is always genuinely warm , approachable and willing to accommodate the designers ’ artistic direction . It is a real joy to work with him .
On her many accolades
While I appreciate the awards and accolades I have received over the years , I always tell people that I am only good as my last collection . The awards I ’ ve been most proud of are the ones recognizing my service to Trinidad and Tobago which includes the Hummingbird silver medal and National Icon award . Jamaica was the first even before Trinidad and Tobago to give me Caribbean Designer of the year as well as the title of Master Designer .
On the challenges of a fashion design career
That ’ s a big one since there are always challenges and it changes over time . At the beginning I was very lucky to have access to an atelier through my mother and to be able to tap into a network of fashion forward consumers in Trinidad . In spite of that , I had to break through a mindset that local designs were going to be as good as or better than imported items . In a small island like Trinidad and Tobago we are immediately affected by any economic , politics and even weather changes such as a big rain storm ! However , regardless of the economy , the political state of affairs or even the crime , the big challenge is to stay focused and continue to design following my vision . My aim is to always remain relevant , not only in the Caribbean but in the international fashion world .
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