Fashion Focus Magazine (Issue 3)

SPECIAL EDITION ISSUE #3 / JULY 2017

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CONTENTS 2/ I CAN CREATE 3/ Runway to Retail 6/ PLAY Editorial 13/ Men’s Editorial 18/ FashionTT Update 20/ TROPSHOP.COM 22/ Qurux Afrika 24/ UTT Top Performer 26/ Fashion Blogger 27/ Dirty Laundry 36/ Rock N Roll 44/ True Talk No Lie 46/ Art Behind the Art 48/ XTreme Dance Academy

FASHION CONVENTION LIMITED Studio One, 11 Tiara Boulevard, Diamond Vale, Diego Martin, Trinidad & Tobago, W.I.

50/ Jimmy October 53/ Thrifting Trend 54/ Tobago Heritage 66/ Short Shorts 68/ Creative Community

Graphic Design: Ayrïd Chandler Printed by Scrip-J Printers A division of The Business Supply Group Limited 1 Fernandes Industrial Centre, Laventille.

Fashion Focus @ffconvention @ffconvention

1-868-471-1919 fashionfocusltd@gmail.com www.fashionfocus.org

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Three simple words that describe the limitless potential of the human race.

Throughout history, mankind has demonstrated superiority in the animal kingdom and eco-system with many inventions that have changed the quality of life on Planet Earth. Science and technology may have given us infrastructure, but it is the arts that give us soul…

In an effort to unlock the full capacity of local creatives, an idea was born to engage, include and individualize…I Can Create. We all create. It can be fashion, it can be art, it can be dance, it can be music, it can be humor, it can be drama, it can be an emotion or feeling which all shape the discourse with our neighbor. This has opened up a much wider discussion that revealed the need for one centralized space dedicated to expression.

For the past few years, our focus has been fashion (pun intended), it still is fashion, and will continue to be fashion. However, it is important to understand who are we trying to have a “fashion” conversation

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with. Local fashion is a niche interaction, so the first step is to encompass the entire creative body as the audience. Everyone needs a chance to showcase, in order for each to appreciate the other.

I Can Create is not a campaign, it is a movement.

A movement of like-minded people willing to contribute to one goal – progress. We have spent many years lamenting on the state of the industry, the state of the economy, the state of development without actually forging ahead with a vision or mission that could be quanitified in quantitative or qualitative terms. Our gift of creation has to be explored to the fullest, complimented by the most powerful networking tactic, collaboration.

WE CAN DEFINE OUR DIRECTION – CREATE | COMMUNICATE | COLLABORATE.

RUNWAY TO RETAIL

In the world of fashion & design, the ultimate goal for any brand is to sell.

In the world of fashion and design, the ultimate goal for any brand is to sell. Unless of course, you’re into fashion as a hobby or pastime, and the commercial aspect of design business has no impact on your existence…bleh! For the rest of us, the “Runway to Retail” initiative is important because it helps fashion brands connect with customer segments that they would not have had access to otherwise. On the flip side, the customers of the designer are also introduced to the retailer’s space as well. Therefore, the matchmaking process involved in this type of collaboration benefits both parties, as we strive for a more robust yet diverse industry in which creative entrepreneurship can thrive.

As a fashion brand, the most important element is your image. Your image and brand attributes define who you are, and determine who is attracted to you and subsequently becomes your customer.

There is also a vast difference between a “one-time customer” and a “regular customer” and the truth is, the retail environment understands this a little better that individual designers. Are customers price sensitive? Yes, they are. But more importantly, the quality of the shopping experience and product itself also impact the decision making process in a very significant way.

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Koral Boutique has been a master of the above for over ten (10) years. With an inventory of both swim and resort wear, combined with a kids section and funky accessories, it has been a Caribbean shopper’s paradise when heading to the beach or social gathering. Marcia Gamez de Young is one pioneer whose extraordinary eye for detail, combined with her own experience in South American fashion industry has made her a force to be reckoned with. When she laid eyes on the exquisite style of the CLD brand at Fashion Focus last year, she already knew that a customized collection was in the making. CLD is a local designer brand from Indian born fashion producer Charu Lochan Dass, with the class, elegance and sophistication that makes any woman feel confident when wearing. With a range of design capabilities across the spectrum, Charu caters for women of all sizes and tastes with one thing in common – an appreciation for quality and individuality. The CLD x KORAL Boutique collection is a dream come true for lovers of silhouettes and sensuality. Be sure to check them out, available only at Shop 182, The Falls West Mall, Westmoorings.

Your image and brand attributes define who you are, and determine who is attracted to you and subsequently becomes your customer.

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Men’s fashion – where shall we begin? Over the past couple weeks, social media has been ablaze with photos of “rompers” and “romphims”, but why? Is that the long and short of men’s fashion?

No, it most certainly isn’t. Men have been wearing overalls in industrial and mechanical plants from the beginning of time, so what’s the difference between an overall and a romper? Are we then saying that superstars like James Brown were not stylish? I think not… Few lead, and many follow.

DV8 Boutique is a shopping experience for both ladies and gents clothing, with the latter being the focus of our next collaboration – Shaun Griffith Perez x DV8 Boutique. Nestled away in the pathways of Grand Bazaar Shopping Mall, DV8 offers a move away from the norm (hence the name) in its product selection and customer service experience. With a special range of international brands on their racks and online options coming soon, Shem Thomas and his team found the same uniqueness in the local designer brand, Shaun Griffith Perez. Shem feels confident that the Shaun Griffith Perez brand both displays quality craftsmanship and also draws inspiration from some of the same places as the global trend forecasts. The collection will be specifically for men, as Shaun feels that the men are grossly underrepresented on the local fashion circuit.

Shirts, trousers, blazers, bomber jackets will all there, as creatives continue to collaborate to invigorate a sector that possesses the potential to become a major player on the world stage.

ADVERTISEMENT

Available at 55 Gallus St, Woodbrook Available at Koral Boutique, Shop 182, West Mall

PLAY Throw on, throw off.

Take off, put on.

Photography by Alicia Bonterre Fashion Editor Shandelle Loregnard

LISA SEE TAI top MEILING cropped pants

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LUSH KINGDOM Dress MEILING cropped apron Set Design: Shandelle Loregnard Hair Stylist: Rayette Rawlins MUA: Rachelle Singh Model: Carlene James

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MEILING shirt THE CLOTH pants WILLOW JEWELRY earrings

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LISA SEE TAI lace top MEILING turtle neck ADRIAN FOSTER shorts

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MEILING apron THE CLOTH jumpsuit WILLOW JEWELRY earrings

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MEILING apron THE CLOTH jumpsuit WILLOW JEWELRY earrings

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HIGH

A BIRD’S EYE VIEW OF LIFE IN THE CITY

Photography by Eustace Dyer Make up by Shyla Alonzo Outfit by Ecliff Elie Model - Jabari Mc Queen

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Photography by Eustace Dyer Make up by Shyla Alonzo Outfit by DAWW Creations Model - Khadeem J Moore

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Photography by Eustace Dyer Make up by Shyla Alonzo Outfit by DAWW Creations Model - Aquil Ramsahai

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Photography by Eustace Dyer Make up by Shyla Alonzo Outfit by Ecliff Elie Model - Khadeem J Moore

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Photography by Eustace Dyer Make up by Shyla Alonzo Outfits by Ecliff Elie Models - Jabari Mc Queen & Aquil Ramsahai

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TRANSFORMING THE FASHION INDUSTRY THROUGH OUR VALUE CHAIN INVESTMENT PROGRAMME A landmark 5-year initiative that will produce a globally competitive fashion industry /FASHIONOFTT

FASHIONTT UPDATE The Fashion Value Chain Investment Programme (VCIP) is one of the core projects of the Strategic Plan for the Fashion Industry.

This programme assesses local firms by an independent international panel who will categorize firms into one of the four levels of the VCIP: 1. The Global Value Chain (GVC) Support Programme 2. Non-Global Value Chain (nonGVC) Support Programme 3. Incubator Programme for New/Young High Potential Companies or Partnerships 4. Firms that are Earmarked for Future Support The VCIP is a landmark initiative that began in July when the Trinidad and Tobago Fashion Company Limited (FashionTT) convened a three-member international panel to interview twenty-one designers in Trinidad and Tobago. Each candidate was scored based on their responses to a series of questions related to fifteen VCIP criteria: • Brand Story/Relevance

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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

FASHIONTT.CO.TT

Market Experience | Brand Positioning/Clarity Design Know-how and Capabilities Consumer Knowledge Commercial Viability Retail Understanding Sales Capability/Processes Export Production Capacity Product Quality | Based on Samples Presented Brand Presence Marketing Strategy Equipment/Operational Capabilities General Management Financial Health Financial Compliance Tie-breaker | Total Value of Orders Received, Shipped, Invoiced and Collected

Based on their scores, five designers were accepted into the Non-GVC Programme – Millhouse, Ecliff Elie, J Angelique, Charu Lochan Dass and Ted Arthur Leather Collections – in the 2016/2017 programme. These firms will receive support in improving elements of their value chain by refining their in-house performance or outsourcing some steps locally. This support will be provided by international fashion consultants over a one-year period who will work closely with these designers to harness their most significant value chain potentials. A new cohort of designers will be accepted into the NonGVC Programme every year with an expected outcome of fifteen to twenty-five firms with improved value chains after a five-year period.

The Trinidad and Tobago Fashion Company (FashionTT) has designed a series of workshops to educate local designers on the importance of strategically managing their businesses to achieve desired results and revenue. This heightened understanding of business processes and their effects on revenue and export ability will result in the continued growth of the fashion industry which will in turn contribute significantly to Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

These training workshops will demonstrate how strategic business management is linked to wealth generation, allowing designers to gain a greater understanding of business processes and how it affects wealth generation and export ability.

THE BUSINESS OF FASHION WORKSHOPS WILL TAKE PLACE ON THE FOLLOWING DAYS: Trinidad* | Venue: Cattleya Lounge, Centre of Excellence, Macoya | Time: 8:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Friday 14th July, 2017 Dr. Suzanne Burke - Business Planning for the Fashion Business Entrepreneur – The Fundamentals

Saturday 15th July, 2017 Dr. Suzanne Burke - Business Planning for the Fashion Business Entrepreneur – Setting Goals and Objectives

Friday 21st July, 2017 Mrs. Sandra Carr - Production Management – Production Facility Readiness A Panel discussion will also take place with the following persons: Mr. Michael Christopher (moderator) Mr. Richard Young - Aesthetic / Image Ms. Kathryn Nurse - Marketing as a profit generating tool for success Ms. Candice Bacchus - Actualizing the Merchandising Process Ms. Jamilia Alexander – The Business of Fashion Branding

Saturday 22nd July, 2017 Mr. Andre Taitt - Everything Finance for the Fashion Business Entrepreneur NEDCO - Financing/Incubator Readiness *Persons can register for one or more workshops in Trinidad.

Tobago | Venue: Victor E. Bruce Financial Complex, Scarborough | Time: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Thursday 27th July, 2017 Ms. Hannah Hafeez - From Preparing and Selling a collection to Merchandising Ms. Jessel Brizan - Fit for Retail: Floor-ready merchandising and preparing for the buyers meeting

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UP-ING CARIBBEAN FASHION THE E-COMMERCE FRONTIER

thetropshop.com creates an online hub for the best of Caribbean fashion and opens e-commerce opportunities for fashion and clothing retail entrepreneurs across the region!

As an avid lover and purchaser of Caribbean lifestyle and fashion, at some point in your love affair you’ve wished that there was a quicker, easier way to swipe your credit card and cop your new favourite bikini or the piece you’ve had your eye set on! Not to mention, if you’re a fashion designer or clothing outlet in the Caribbean, you’ve probably wondered how you could accept credit card payments from your eager customers and about ways to get your products to them faster and at an affordable cost!

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You’ve wondered and so has Leah Marville, CEO of thetropshop.com. She’s made it her mission, along with her Fashion Focus team, to find a way to make business easier for all us in the fashion industry. They have dedicated years to bridging gaps by making even the smallest linkages between businesses (example: designers with retail outlets).

The lack of e-commerce capabilities was a glaring “need-to-fix” situation for the fashion CEO. This led to the birth of thetropshop.com. “thetropshop.com creates an online hub for the best of Caribbean fashion and opens up e-commerce opportunities for fashion and clothing retail entrepreneurs across the region!”

It’s a Caribbean startup - an online hub for curated Caribbean fashion and clothing brands!

It also doubles as an online platform that allows fashion designers and clothing retail outlets to create their own online store, accept credit card payments and benefit from shipping concessions, a robust marketing machine, business guidance and administration. It’s easy to use interface

allows anyone with internet access and a fashion product, to sign up, choose a URL, design a store and start selling!

If you think you aren’t fully business ready but you have a product, maintain an Instagram or Facebook page and are eager to get started, there is also the option to choose an Admin package, where the TROPSHOP staff will manage your page. TROPSHOP’s CEO, Leah Marville offers this, “Due to our small economies and the challenges we face as a result, I believe it’s important that in building a platform such as this, we offer our entrepreneurs the extra helping hand to get them where they need to be, even if its just for the initial stages of their businesses. It’s about achieving results and for now, TROPSHOP will support its merchants in getting those results.”

There is no doubt that, in the Caribbean, the average fashion entrepreneur is limited in being able to access the banking facilities to integrate e-commerce into their businesses. Thetropshop. com is the solution designed for small to mediumsized businesses to grow with the platform while accessing a global target market that otherwise is not readily at the fingertips of merchants. Beyond that, the platform provides a smooth and efficient customer experience.

Sign up. Design store.

Upload product.

Accept payment.

Ship to customer.

It’s that easy.

ABOUT THE CEO As an international model, television personality, Miss Barbados World 2009 and recipient of several fashion awards in the Caribbean, Leah Marville has been a name on the Caribbean fashion scene, for over 10 years.

In recent years, Leah has decided to “serve more than face” to the industry by dedicating her knowledge and experience to building of the Caribbean fashion industry through research, the creation of avenues and development of solutions to the many challenges that the industry faces.

She is also a member of The Fashion Focus organization, a Caribbean Fashion Convention, with its base in Trinidad and Tobago. The main focus of the organization is to create innovative angles in the presentation of fashion while enabling the cross-pollination of stakeholders groups within the fashion value chain and bridging gaps that restrict the growth of fashion entrepreneurs and the industry as a whole.

“Leah has decided to “serve more than face” to the industry by dedicating her knowledge and experience to building of the Caribbean fashion industry through research, the creation of avenues and development of solutions to the many challenges that the industry faces”.

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• QURUX AFRIKA • From natural hair styles to inspirational ethnic jewellery to the prints, cut and colours of fabrics, African fashion has woven itself into the hearts of the mainstream. African style has become a state of mind, it embodies beauty and purpose, evokes spiritual strength and inspires individuality.

Qurux Africa, a presentation of the Emancipation Support Committee, is fast becoming a must -attend event for the expression and appreciation of African beauty through fashion.

The Emancipation Support Committee of Trinidad and Tobago celebrated their 25th Anniversary of the organization and their commitment to education, development and personal identity.

Executive Director, Zakiya Uzoma Wadada shared her perspective on the show. “With 25 years of commitment to the development of the African consciousness in Trinidad and Tobago – we see this show as an opportunity to reach our brothers and sisters allowing them to see themselves in the best possible light.”

The third installement of Qurux Africa took place Under the Trees at the Hotel Normandie on Sunday 2nd July, 2017. Special local designers such as Andre Lovelace of The Nubian Experience, Deron Attzs of Deron Attzs Design Label, and Julia Clark of Mahogany Stuff all graced the stage with their productions. Representing the African continent, the event also showcased the latest Ghanian fashion with designers Josephine Hayford of Haylooks and Faustina Ansong of Charisma Fashion, both of whom have participated in the Emancipation Festival for many years and continue to provide the latest in African fashion right here in Trinidad. After the production, patrons could purchase their favorite outfits directly from the designers while milling around Under the Trees for the Pop-up booths. Traditional accessories such as headwraps, jewelry, handbags and craft will also be available.

Michael Christopher, lead consultant for Qurux Africa said, “One of the main goals of Fashion Focus is to create an innovative angle on the presentation of fashion, one that is more fluid, dynamic and engaging. Shows like this allow the patron to enjoy a show, select items that appeal to them and purchase items at the Pop-up shop.

There were be a variety of styles, evening wear, business, casual both male and female and even a kids’ line.”

Patrons braved the inclement weather and came out from 4pm to indulge in the cocktail reception followed by the African and African-inspired presentations. This year’s event featured a photobooth by Ushare Social Media Booths and door prizes will be presented throughout the show. Headline model, Ms. Athaliah Samuel - Miss Trinidad and Tobago 2012, expressed how pleased she is to be associated with the production. She commented on the pride she feels in participating in a specially planned show for the celebration of African heritage and culture.

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For more information on the work of the Emancipation Support Committee, contact the Secretariat at 628-5008 or info@emancipationtt.org, visit the website at www.emancipationtt. com or follow the ESCTT on Facebook at “Emancipation Support Committee-ESC”.

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UTT TOP PERFORMER

by Rochelle Rahim

Eclectic - ‘deriving ideas, style, or taste

from a broad and diverse range of sources’, also, the theme for 2017’s UTT Senior Thesis Fashion Show. From ‘The Destruction of the Natural Environment’ to preparation for the ‘Apocalypse’, dramatic collars, bold shoulders and origami inspired pieces the influences from all over the world, different fashion eras and detailed research were clear to see .

I only wish I had seen more shapes and movement.

While the pieces were creative, appealing and inspiring, they didn’t tell a story or at least a complete story. Some had a start and a finish but no middle. The good thing about this for me however is that these are upcoming designers and as time goes by the will learn to perfect their craft and learn to tell the most unbelievable stories that I know they can.

One of these upcoming designers has also been awarded ‘Student of the Year.’ Chosen based on their ability to demonstrate how well they know their brand and performance throughout their four (4) formal fashion training years at the CAFD, this year’s ‘Student of the Year’ has an aesthetic I can only describe as avant-garde with a dash of couture. His name is Adrian Wilson.

Adrian’s love of texture, volume of the loudest levels and intricate details allow this upcoming designer to transform any piece of fabric from static to dynamic. Enhanced by flared shapes, illusions using lines, stripes and complex seams, his designs are given personalities of their own.

His Tomb Raider/ Lara Croft-esque collection ‘Apocalypse’ uses lines and a monochrome palette to transport the wearer to the forefront of the final showdown before disaster, chaos and destruction ensues.

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The fact that our fashion industry is still in developing stages I really wanted to know what Adrian would like to contribute and I couldn’t have been more proud of his answer. Explaining that we currently see fashion as a form of entertainment, he’s adamant that proper education and the allocation of resources are what we need to become a fully functional, revenue producing industry. What he hopes to gather is the relevant knowledge and expertise to be able to impart this on anyone wishing to enter the industry.

Attributing inspiration for his pieces to countries outside of the Caribbean and futuristic movies, Adrian also hopes to work with international designers to gather more experience, delve into different cultures and acquire the knowledge of different styles.

Having won this award there’s a vast expanse of unknowns for Adrian to explore in the fashion space both locally and abroad. His potential announces itself in his humility and determination to not just do more but to learn more and I’m so excited to see what he accomplishes for the future.

To all the students of the Graduating Class of 2017 –congratulations and remember that you are limitless!

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Caribbean creative is left untouched from music to food and everything in between from any island you could spot on the map. She’s highlighted them all and there’s no longer an excuse for you to not know because it’s not available.

THE ROLE OF THE FASHION REPORTER

by Rochelle Rahim

Influencers have eliminated the need for good ole traditional media. Instead we Snapchat, add to our stories and follow those we deem worthy. Why? Because others are having experiences we want to be a part of, call it vicarious living if you will.

This is how fashion bloggers have become imperative to the slowly developing industry. We want to experience and own brands that fit our personality and style, the ones that make us look and feel good, the ones that match our values, but, who wants to wait till after buying it to find out it’s just not right. Everyone loves a good story, so if a brand doesn’t have one we could identify with, why spend our hard earned money on it.

Blogging is a beautiful stained glass door that opens up to a whole new magical world. Stories are meant to be shared and as Caribbean Bloggers we get to tell the world ‘Look at us, we are not just maxi dresses and crochet bikinis’. Rather, we are intricate designs paired with bold shapes joined by statement jewelry that will make you go ‘Dylan Lex who?’ and totes that rival Fendi and Valentino.

Each blogger, like designers have their distinct style and blogging persona. ‘The Karibbean Kollective’ wastes no time in letting you know who we are and that we mean business. No corner of the FASHIONFOCUS 26 / Issue 3 - I CAN CREATE

‘With Love From Guyana’ weaves her daily musings as an architect with her appreciation for local design through her outfit posts that exhibit her cool, casual style while maintaining an eye for detail. Her feature designer interviews introduce us to the people we should be paying attention to not withholding the fact that it’s an army of girl bosses. ‘TwoDotPick’ can be summed up in the phrase “Easy, breezy beautiful, Caribbean girl’ but is much more than that. Her less than conventional daily style shows the fearlessness in dressing and though not stated, declares that fashion is much more meaningfulll when you just be yourself. ‘The Baydian Girl’ is a style blogger teaching women to embrace your personality and embody it with style. Her advice and inspiration applies not just to the islands but to women anywhere who wants to know, ‘How do I wear that?’ and reminds you of that one friend who you always call to ask what she’s wearing to you GNO. These are only a few of the bloggers sharing us with the world, and like bloggers anywhere else trends can be heavily influenced by what we deem ‘in’ or ‘out’. This means we now have the audience of the entire world looking on, waiting, anticipating.

We now have the power to set trends, as we are informing and exposing just what we can do, though developing, to the world.

People I’ve met love to ask- ‘Does blogging even make sense?’

Of course it does! We’re bringing you the realness on how we feel about the products and brands that you may have your preconceived notions of, or, more often than not who you’ve simply never heard of. Blogging is now shedding a flood light on the strides being made within our industry all while teaching us how influencers really work. The relevance of blogging in undeniable because it’s also informative which I think does zero harm to the current fashion climate. Like everything else, blogging can be biased but at the end of the day its each individual’s experience. And whether we say something good or bad, your brand or ours are sure to come up in someone’s conversation.

DIRTY LAUNDRY This is a playful Fashion Editorial that focuses on young women doing the typical boring task of doing laundry in a public place. A bit of New York is in the theme since it’s the stylist’s other home with a youthful, colorful vibe of the Caribbean. Not the typical Caribbean woman who will go to do her laundry with a t-shirt and jeans. These characters sway from open dryers to racks as they show a childish spirit while doing their tasks.

Photographer: ANTONY SCULLY Creative Director/ Stylist: CRYSTAL IVY LONDON Make Up: LISELI ROLLOCK Hair: CANDIS ST CYR Models: ELISHA HAMILTON * OCEAN HINDS * LEAH MARVILLE

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TROPICAL PRINT ROMPER: J. Angelique EARRINGS AND NECKLACE: Coco Vintage

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MULTI-COLORED DRESS: Vivre by Chelsea EARRINGS: Claudia Pegus SHOES: Blaanix

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TROPICAL PRINT DRESS: J. Angelique EARRINGS: Coco Vintage SHADES: Sanianitos

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YELLOW MESH TOP AND WRAP SKIRT: J. Angelique MULTI-COLORED PANT: Vivre by Chelsea EARRINGS: Coco Vintage SHELL ARM BAND: Deity Lifestyle

TOP: Neha Karina WRAP PANT: Lisa See Tai EARRINGS: Coco Vintage RING: Claudia Pegus FASHIONFOCUS Issue 3 - I CAN CREATE

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CREAM JACKET: Lisa See Tai BLUE JERSEY PANT: Neha Karina SHADES: Sanianitos NECKLACE: Claudia Pegus

RED & SILVER SEQUENCED DRESS: Ricky Bhowram SHADES: Sanianitos RING: Claudia Pegus

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OFF THE SHOULDER JUMPSUIT: Claudia Pegus EYEWEAR AND RING: Deity Lifestyle

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VELVET TOP AND PANT: Claudia Pegus EARRING: Coco Vintage RING: Claudia Pegus

VELVET FLORAL MAXI DRESS: Claudia Pegus EARRING: Coco Vintage

VELVET FLORAL DRESS: Claudia Pegus PINK PANT: Lisa See Tai EARRINGS: Coco Vintage RING: Deity Lifestyle

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ROCK N ROLL

THIS FASHION EDITORIAL EXPLORES THE TRUE ESSENCE OF TRINBAGONIANS, THROUGH THE ATTITUDES AND FEELINGS OF OUR PEOPLE TO ALWAYS “ROCK BACK” IN MOST SITUATIONS, OR THEY “ROLL THROUGH” BECAUSE OF OUR LOVE FOR LIFE ITSELF. NEVER A CARE IN THE WORLD.

Photography - Antony Scully Stylist - Crystal Ivy London MUA - Liseli Rollock Hair - Candis St Cyr Nails - Akilah Hughes-Pantin Designer - Christian Boucaud Accessories - Deity Lifestyle Shoes - Blaanix Models - Lia Ross & Angele Mark

Designer - Christian Boucaud Model - Melanie G Sharpe

Designer Top - Nwannia Designer Swimwear - J.Angelique Accessories - Deity Lifestyle Model - Lia Ross

Designer - Christian Boucaud Shoes - Blaanix Model - Melanie G Sharpe

Designer - Delia Alleyne Shoes - Blaanix Model - Lia Ross

Designer Top - Nwannia Designer Shorts - Adrian Foster Sunglasses - Sanianitos Shoes - Blaanix Model - Angele Mark

Designer Top - Nwannia Designer Skirt - Wadada Movement Accessories - Deity Lifestyle Model - Lia Ross

Designer Dress - Wadada Movement Designer top - The Cloth Shoes - Blaanix Model - Melanie G Sharpe

Designer tee - Wadada Movement Designer Jumpsuit - CLD Accessories - Deity Lifestyle Model - Angele Mark

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TRUE TALK NO LIE

by Yvan Mendoza

“... a monthly open-mic and concert series that showcases local talent.”

True Talk No Lie (TTNL) is one of the most highly anticipated events for artists every month. It is a monthly open-mic and concert series that showcases local talent. Started in 2013 by lyricist Yvan “Navy” Mendoza, the show provides a space for untapped talent to blossom and a stage for more seasoned artists to perform to a welcoming audience.

Seeing and being a part of the poetry scene in New York for some two to three years while studying abroad, Navy’s eyes were opened to the possibilities of what an open-mic event could be and he always dreamed of hosting his own when he returned home. After four years of surveying the local performing scene, and noticing a decline in the number of performance spaces at the time, an opportunity stumbled upon him to host an open-mic at Martin’s Piano Bar in Woodbrook.

Why the name “True Talk No Lie”?

Navy explains that he had the concept for the show in his mind and wanted a name that sounded like something local. The saying “True Talk No Lie” came into his head and he liked that it had the word “talk” and “true” in it because he wanted to create a forum for the expression of truth. Secondly, he thought about how it was used when you see someone that you were just talking about and how it is usually followed by “you will live long”, so his idea was that if we keep talking about poetry and the arts that it too would live long.

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The atmosphere at True Talk No Lie provides a unique experience. It’s not an event where you just go and sit and listen to people perform and then leave. From its origins at Martin’s, TTNL has been a warm comfortable space where people can freely express themselves. Whether you are a poet, singer, musician, dancer, comedian or inspired audience member, everyone gets involved and shares their creativity energies.

There is a “Word of the Night” competition, which challenges anyone in attendance to write and perform a piece based on a word selected at the start of the night. The crowd determines the winner based on applause. Every month there is a featured artist who performs a full set in the second half to close the event and leave patrons on an artistic high.

“... if we keep talking about poetry and the arts that it too would live long .”

At True Talk No Lie, there is a coming together of various types of art and artists in a relaxed setting that results in the infectious vibe the show has become known for. TTNL is held on the fourth Wednesday of every month, (not to be confused with the last Wednesday of the month) at the Big Black Box on Murray Street in Woodbrook.

Check them out for information on upcoming shows.

FACEBOOK: @TRUETALKOPENMIC INSTAGRAM: @TRUETALKNOLIE

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ART BEHIND THE ART The concept of Caribbean living is usually synonymous with sunny skies, sandy beaches, beautiful flora and fauna, delicious food and pulsating music. Sounds like a vacationer’s dream?

Well for most it is, tempting you to believe that most of the working population in the islands would be employed both “bare-backed” and “barefeet” in the provision of these services to visitors across the board. The ironic thing is, the academic and socialization process is very post-colonial in concept, frowning an all non-conventional professions in favour of conventional ones.

Therefore, a career in art, fashion, music, sports or dance….Your parents may ask you to think of FASHIONFOCUS 46 / Issue 3 - I CAN CREATE

something else. Such was the experience of our featured artist, Naomi Lushington. At a tender age, Naomi realized she could draw and paint much better than her classmates, but it was not until the age of fourteen (14) she confirmed that something was different. She has a burning desire to express herself, and found that channel to be the canvas.

Inspiration is the name of the game.

When asked about the process to come up with individual pieces, she explained that she often sees the image in her own head and starts from scratch.

Other times, an artistic scenery or composition in real life provides the basis for a new piece of work.

Many people also like to reproduce photographs as works of art, as it is interesting to see the artists’ interpretation of something that is already caught on camera. This is where the beauty of perspective plays a part and helps to create even more beauty in the environment.

The landscape of fine art is long and winding.

Naomi explained, “I am impressed by the work of Van Gogh. His work stands out to me because of his unique way of interpreting the world. He was the precursor of expressionism. He has expressed a great deal of his feelings and emotions through his work. As the viewer..You can actually feel the emotions being portrayed by the painting. And that is what I feel when I look at his pieces. He captures a different dimension of reality….” Vincent Willem van Gogh was a Dutch Post-Impressionist painter who is among the most famous and influential figures in the history of Western art. In just over a decade he created about 2,100 artworks, including around 860 oil paintings, most of them in the last two years of his life in France, where he died.

Naomi hopes one day to have legacy as rich as his.

The connection between Art and Fashion?

“I believe art and fashion are both creative mediums which allow individuals to express their inner feelings and interpretations of so many aspects of life…”

Have some fun as Naomi brings these two elements together in her work.

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X-TREME DANCE ACADEMY Hip-hop. Folk.

Modern. Ballet. Tap. Vogue Fem. Bollywood Indian Dance. More.

X-treme Dance Academy is a non-profit Youth Organization established in 1998 that is dedicated to dance education and dynamic dance entertainment. Our company operates as an outreach enterprise that provides a forum for youths to learn, develop, express and showcase their talent through dance. We have a unique dance program that is able to captivate the attention of our young student who we encouraged to tap into their creative side and utilize their energy, time and imagination to harness their skills that can be useful to them on many levels. We been in operation for nineteen (19) years in Trinidad and Tobago and aspires to be the regional authority on modern day styles of dancing.

Our academy specializes in classic and modern hip hop dance styles however effective July, 2017 we will be moving into our own dance studio and will be offering other genres of dance including Hiphop for kids and adults, Folk, Modern, Ballet, Tap, Vogue Fem, Bollywood Indian Dance and much more. We will also be offering programs that will assist persons of all age groups to lose weight and have fun while doing it. We are dedicated to building dance programmes that measure up to international standards and can provide each student with a chance to learn the various art forms at the highest level.

We also possess a special team of professional dancers that provides exhilarating performances with major Soca Artists. Our team of professionals has performed, internationally and throughout the Caribbean.

X-treme Dance Academy is managed by Hamid Rahman who has 24 years’ experience in the dance industry. Our Academy is proud to be a true representation of positivity in the Caribbean and will continue to strive to evoke change and motivate young men and women worldwide.

If you are interested in our dance classes or wish to book us, please do not hesitate to contact us at xtremedance01@gmail.com or at 488-6459.

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JIMMY OCTOBER

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Jimmy October is a Trinidadian singer, songwriter, rapper, poet.

Jimmy initially started gaining recognition from his work with the Trinidad and Tobago Radio Network (TTRN) as a core member of the Free Speech Project in 2013. He then went on to open for Machel Montano’s annual concert “Machel Monday” in 2014 and 2015. He released his single “GO$$IP” which is the song that really got listeners more interested in his music and earned him spins at local radio level. The following year, October went on to win the COTT Award for the 2015 People’s Choice - Best Collaboration along with Mark Hardy and Yung Rudd for their single “IZ A TRINI.” The streak continued with the release of “WINNING” in May of 2015. Apart from opening for J. Cole at the Tobago Jazz Experience in April of 2016, Jimmy also performed his upcoming song “NO TIME” with EDM Icon Steve Aoki and Bad Royale for the first time ever at Life in Color Trinidad in June of the same year. With the first single and title track off his upcoming project “VACATION” making waves locally and regionally at the moment, Jimmy is hard at work with producer Tano adding the final touches to his next official release.

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THE THRIFTING TREND

by Tishanna Williams

If you want to up your wardrobe but don’t have the funds, thrifting is the way to go.

Shops like Get It Thrift Shop are online and allow you to select pieces from the comfort of your home. If you’re more in the market for children’s and baby clothing, Tee’s Thrift Store, Chaguanas may just have what you need and we can’t forget the oldie that remains a goodie for scoring findsthe Salvation Army.

Everyone may not be able to afford the trendiest fashions but the good Lord in his infinite wisdom has granted us a great gift - the thrift shop. Not to be confused with vintage stores that sell used items at ridiculously high prices, a thrift shop is supposed to be a retail establishment that sells new or slightly used (sometimes designer) items for much reduced prices or raise funds for charitable causes. If you want to up your wardrobe but don’t have the funds, thrifting is the way to go.

If it’s vintage you’re into, the burg has it all from chic to unique. With a quaint location opposite the legendary Crosby’s Records at #58 Frederick St, this shop is a homage to Williamsburg, NY. Owner Kevon D. Walker does his homework when it comes to his items and though it may be a little pricier (it’s vintage after all!), you’re paying a lot less than you would elsewhere.

In the spirit of ventures like Upmarket and Green Market, now there are pop up thrift shops like Thrifter’s Market catering to persons looking for deals and a little adventure. With the added mandate to raise public awareness on reducing our carbon footprint and building a greener planet, Thrifter’s Market allows you to spend a little and learn a little.

The key to thrifting remains your own discretion.

Always ensure the businesses you patronize have good reviews since returns at less than legit stores could be a bit tricky. A good thrift store would also always ensure its items are properly cleaned and a good store owner may just have an interesting story about your purchase to tell.

Happy Thrifting!

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Tobago Heritage

PHOTOGRAPHER: Melvern Isaac FASHION STYLIST & CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Keziah Lendor PRO MAKEUP ARTIST: Jodi Balfour PRODUCTION ASSISTANT: Kimmi Alfred Potts MODEL/ MUSE: Diana Quashie

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BELE

DANCER

Tobago Heritage pays homage to our sister isle Tobago and the rich and dynamic culture it has afforded Trinidad and Tobago. This editorial is a euphoric and modern interpretation of the Tobago Heritage Festival and some of Tobago’s most unique and well preserved cultural influences and traditions.

TOP: Shop Shari NECKLACE: Shop Shari SKIRT: Traditional Bele Skirt

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TOP: Meiling SKIRT & HEAD WRAP: Meiling CHOKERS: Willow Jewelry

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WASHER

WOMAN

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DIRT OVEN BAKING

ROMPER: Meiling SUNGLASSES: Sanianitos CHOKERS: Willow Jewelry VISOR: Stylist

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SEINE

P U LL I N G

COVER UP: Shop Shari HIGH WAIST BIKINI BOTTOM: Shop Shari SUNGLASSES: Sanianitos CHOKERS: Willow Jewelry HAT & HEAD WRAP: Stylist

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TRADITIONAL M U S I C I A N ‘ TA M B R I N ’ NECKLACE: Shop Shari TOP: Shop Shari PANTS: Adrian Foster

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BY

THE

COPPER

DRESS: Shop Shari CHOKERS & BRACELETS: Willow Jewelry

GAMES WE USE TO P L AY FASHIONFOCUS 64 / Issue 3 - I CAN CREATE

TOP: Meiling CHOCKER: Willow Jewelry SUNGLASSES: Sanianitos

HAT, BELT, UMBRELLA: Adrian Foster DRESS: Meiling CHOKER: Willow Jewelry EARRINGS: Conflict Women

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BY TISHANNA WILLIAMS

Shorts are in. Bermuda, batty rider, cargo, cutoffs, denim or pum-pum, they have been a stylish, functional ‘in thing’ for decades. Yet when applied outside the lines of ‘personal time’ they are still not considered a regular mode of dress for the Caribbean resident.

In his book, “True Style: The History and Principles of Classic Menswear” expert G. Bryce Boyer states that “appropriate dress frees us from the anxieties and liabilities of sending negative and confusing messages”.

When it comes to wearing shorts, especially in daylight hours sans fete or adjacent water source, it’s often a ‘damned if you do’ situation that can make the wearer feel uncomfortable, especially with the Caribbean male’s (seemingly) god given right to catcall. To the more traditional demographic FASHIONFOCUS 66 / Issue 3 - I CAN CREATE

they generally signal a distasteful desire for attention or a man’s Peter Pan syndrome. After all, which man wears shorts after primary school and expects to be taken seriously. Right?

With all the stylistic and sartorial innovations being made in the ‘shorts’ department, corporate businesses still frown on heavily exposed leg in the workplace citing potential sexual harassment suits and an overall unprofessional aesthetic. The importance of dressing for the office extends to the psychological and this item of clothing has suffered from the laid-back, party reputation it has gained over the years. However, this part of the world is hot. The thought of standing in line catching lunch in the midday sun decked in long trousers sweats the brain so why is it still taboo to wear something that could add some personal comfort to the office?

Maybe if persons could guarantee that they would apply logic to their styling. As much as they are loved, everyone has seen at least one pair of shorts that just should not have happened. Perhaps their overall exclusion of the style from ‘polite society’ should be considered a reprieve for many from illogical style decisions worn in good company.

Thus, short pants remain just on the outskirts of acceptable life style and maybe, that’s where they should stay.

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CREATIVE COMMUNITY ADRIAN FOSTER

ADRIAN WILSON

A-LAN SWIM

RTW Women’s Clothing

Women’s Clothing

@officiallyadrianfoster

CAFD / UTT Student of the Year 2017 @adrianwilsonml

BHOWRAM ATELIER

CHARU LOCHAN DASS

CHRISTIAN BOUCAUD

Women’s Clothing

Women’s Clothing

Women’s Clothing

@bhowramatelier

@charulochandass

@christianboucaud

CLAUDIA PEGUS

DAWW CREATIONS

DEISHA DARE DESIGNS

Women’s Clothing

Men’s Clothing

Fashion & Art

@claudiapegusdesigns

@dawwcreations

@deishadaredesigns

DEITY 868

HAPPY CURLS HAPPY GIRLS

HOUSE OF KATHY SALON

Handmade Accessories & Jewelry @deity868_

Hair Products

Beauty Salon

@happycurlshappygirlstt

@houseofkathysalon

IMMORTELLE BEAUTY

J.ANGELIQUE CLOTHING

KALEEN SANOIS

Beauty & Skin Care

Women’s Clothing

Women’s Clothing

@immortellebeauty

@designerjangelique

@kalois

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@a_lanswim

CREATIVE COMMUNITY LISA SEE TAI

M.A.C DESIGNS

MEILING

Women’s Clothing

Lifestyle Clothing Brand

Lifestyle Brand

@lisaseetaidesign

@m.a.cdesigns

@meilinginc

MIMI KURUKA

NEHA KARINA

NWANNIA SORZANO

Graphic Tees

Women’s Clothing

Urban Clothing

@bhowramatelier

@nehakarina.official

@nwannia

SANIANITOS

SEAFRINA

SHAUN GRIFFITH PEREZ

Accessories

Women’s Clothing

Lifestyle Clothing Brand

@sanianitos

@seafrina_

@shaun.griffith.perez

SHIBHUE CARIBBEAN

THE BOW COMPANY

THE LUSH KINGDOM

Women’s Accessories

Male Accessories

Lifestyle Clothing Brand

@shibhuecaribbean

@_thebowcompany_

@lushcaribe

THE 1NDIVIDUAL AESTHETIC

VIVRE BY CHELSEA

WADADA MOVEMENT

Lifestyle Clothing Brand

Women’s Clothing

Lifestyle Clothing Brand

@1ndividual

@vivrebychelsea

@wadadamovement

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