Left: Beige in all its soft, flowing and feminine tones. Right: Calvin Southwell's blue gown features strapless lacy overlay at the top. - Contributed photos

Antigua's most celebrated designer, Calvin Southwell, will make his debut in June at the seventh annual Caribbean Fashionweek (CFW). Easily one of the region's most talented designers, Southwell is known for his signature black and white pieces, chic ready-to-wear designs, and his sophisticated couture ensembles.

It will also be a debut year for Antigua, as fashion's biggest event continues to expand its regional reach. Southwell will be joined by countrywoman Jean-Marie Thomas of Ajeante designs.

"I am looking forward to a strong showing in Jamaica. For a couple of years I have wanted to come to CFW but this will be the right time," said the dreadlocked designer.

Fashion-conscious parents

Born in 1963 in the Green Bay community of Antigua, Southwell was introduced to the world of fashion at a very young age by his fashion-conscious parents Clarence Southwell and Wilma Ambrose. His parents imparted a love and appreciation for style and design that would later cement itself into an astounding career.

Southwell tried his hand at several jobs, such as teaching, banking and accounting, but soon discovered his true calling of 'fashion designing' while working part-time as a model. A naturally gifted artist, he made the transition from modelto designer with relative ease and set about achieving his dream of becoming an established and world-renowned designer.

First boutique

In 1989 he opened his first boutique, 'Black an' Black', in honour of his chic and trendy mother. His unique designs immediately struck a chord with the local fashion community. Catering to an elite clientele, Southwell styled numerous projects both locally and internationally. His designs have been featured in movies, commercials, infomercials and have graced international runways. The creations have also been featured in several glossy magazines.

In 2003 Southwell was awarded the Grand Order of Merit by His Excellency Sir James B. Carlisle, Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda, for his enormous contribution to the development of Antigua's fashion industry.