By Alicia Roache, Staff ReporterSOME OF the best and most innovative designs and products were on show at the Devon House Fashion Market, held at Devon House, St Andrew, over the weekend.
If ever there was a time for persons to support the 'Buy Jamaica Build Jamaica' Campaign, the three day event would have been it. Not only was there a wide variety of products to suit almost every taste, but they were available at discount prices, as many of the designers and manufacturers introduced their wares to the public.
'Krafty Design', a jewellery house from Liguanea brought ethnic gems and clips from as low as $50 and personalised bracelets made for just $100.
'Tomiek's Jewellery', designed by Jean Chung, was quite extraordinary. Hemp and stones were combined to create beautiful, sturdy necklaces, while 'horse-eye' beads were used to make unique chokers, necklaces and belts.
'Africana House', brought African garb made from fabrics imported from Ghana and Senegal, along with leather sandals, and batik tapestry for those decidedly 'African' in their taste and outlook.
Jennifer Thompson's 'Cotton and Craft' made from Jamaica's Sea Island Cotton, was among the best of the exhibition. A designer for "more years than I care to remember," Thompson's dedication to her craft was reflected in the wonderfully handpainted and hand-dyed garments. The one-of-kind necklaces made of coffee beans, watermelon seeds and bamboo sticks added a touch of charm to the clothing on display.
GOOD 'ALTERNATIVE'
For the revolutionary, Jah&I's brand of Tanks and Tees called 'Twystid' and jewellery called 'Feddaz' offered a good 'alternative'. The concept behind the design reflected a fusion of "Rastafarian, Alternative and Gothic designs". The Spongebob(Squarepants) Trucker hats were an amusing combination of grown-up style and youthful charm. Jewellery ranged from studded leather bracelets, to crocheted red, green and gold earrings.
On the flip side, Diedre Callam brought designs for the religious minded with 'Hizzi' (His-eye). Religious emblems were printed on T-shirts and tank tops for the young and the youthful. Among the emblems that decorated the shirts were the abbreviation W.W.J.D.(what would jesus do) and an eye depicting the father, the son and the Holy Ghost's "eye on the sparrow".
Even children were catered for by 'Ladorje's Kids' one of the most extensive display booths on the grounds. They had everything from daywear to nightwear for kids.
Pablo's Fabrics came with impressive marketing techniques for their wares. From flyers bearing helpful fashion hints to design sketches for outfits, sheet sets and pillows, Pablo's booth was designed for shopping. Their chenille and velvet sofa pillows, reasonably priced could catch the eye of the most discerning shopper.
As Lilian Valles of Pablos observed, the fashion market was not just a way for people to get closer to the designers, but was a good way for the designers to get closer to their suppliers as well.
The fashion market lasted between Friday and yesterday and saw several design houses on display, among them, Leder Mode, Wright Style, Elan and Cleopatra's Collection.
