Blog Roll! – Page 10 – Travel With A Purpose

Chimichanga- Mexican Fast Food in Trinidad

Posted on April 11, 2015by admin

A Chimichanga can best be described as a deep fried burrito. However the Chimichanga I speak about is an orange food cart that is situated on “the cross” or Cross Crossing in San Fernando. It is found closest to the Kenson Institute just before the traffic lights if you are exiting JTA Supermarket. Also it is usually the last food cart at the end of the food strip of huts. It can also be the first hut if you are driving up the strip just after Kenson heading towards the JTA Supermarket. There you will find a brightly coloured hut named “Chimichanga” and you can find a park as close as possible to it if you are driving. They are open on Fridays and Saturdays from 7 pm – 11 pm.

The menu at Chimichanga consists of burrito bowls, tacos and burritos. The rates vary for different items. The prices range from TTD$25.00 – TTD$40.00. They are very organized from ordering, production to customer service delivery. The surroundings are clean. The team that works there is outfitted in Chimichange t-shirts which differentiates them for bringing a level of professionalism, marketing, branding and courtesy to restaurant operations even on a cart. There is a certain synergy of passion and love for what they do that should not go unmentioned because it is felt when this same energy is transferred to the customers.

My order consisted of a fish burrito wrap and chicken tacos (soft shell). The burrito comprised of Mexican rice, black beans, shredded cabbage, corn, salsa, lime, pepper, sour cream, chips and fish. The tacos were stuffed with chicken, vegetables, salsa, corn, sour cream, cheese and chips. Usually guacamole is added but my friend opted for its omission to the tacos. Both items were delectable bursting with colour, zest, flavour and so much excitement packed into a wrap! Yet, I noticed that the chips sprinkled on the burritos, tacos as well as the wraps and shells themselves were prepackaged (I know some people who go ballistic over the authenticity of food including myself). All the other items seemed to have been home cooked which contributed to a realistic Mexican appeal even the fish. However, I do understand the model of their business and the need to use prepackaged taco shells and burrito wraps because of the fast food pace, storage, cook time and the list goes on.

Chimichanga is a recent addition to the food strip in the south land and hopefully it continues to be a star attraction there. It brings diversity and cultural value to the destination Trinidad. I highly recommend that you try them out if you have not done so already. After my first purchase there I can definitely say it won’t be my last. The food is as vibrant and impressive as the Mexican culture and people. It is simply amazing that even though some of the former inhabitants of Trinidad were from Latin America that today we can still share in the celebration of their lifestyle through their food.

Contact Chimichanga today!

https://www.facebook.com/chimichanga.trinidad/timeline?ref=page_internal

1-868-780 – 6954

French Dining in Trinidad

Posted on April 11, 2015by admin

I was absolutely mesmerized when I first saw photos of Chef Khalil Ali’s work on his Facebook page. I could not believe that this native to Trinidad was so versed in french cooking skills. Of course I did learn that he trained and also built his portfolio globally. I guess like all birds that leave the nest this one eventually returned home to share his experience and gift with the locals. He opened his cafe in Port of Spain and it became a popular spot for many who appreciate French cuisine and five star food.He closed this Port of Spain cafe and reopened in Chaguanas at Caroni Savannah Road some years later.

There is an open floor plan with comfortable seating at his new cafe. The decor is not overdone or too quaint. There is a faint Parisian vibe from the paintings on the wall to the almost terrace like appeal of sitting with your coffee whilst watching the busy world on the streets. However, we live in a very humid climate so from indoors amidst the air conditioning we can still thoroughly enjoy this scene. A touch of life and a pop of colour is added with a single yellow flower to each table. The usefulness of old wine bottles as vases for these flowers is even more rustic. The Parisian music further captures and enhances the French ambiance.

His menu is not restricted to French cuisine as there are some local fusions on the menu as well.The food portions are sufficient and the rates are affordable. There is breakfast, lunch and dinner. Chef Ali has exclusive and decadent gourmet desserts, pastries and breads. Hot and cold beverages are also available. These range from coffee, tea, soft drinks and juices.

While dining there my colleague and I opted for pumpkin soup and a chicken wrap. We were greeted with menus and the waiting time for food to table was not very long. Moreover, the staff was courteous and friendly. They kept us informed on wait time for our meal. We were very pleased with the meals. The food was flavorful and delicious. We were also able to take away our leftovers (because we were pressed for time).

Nonetheless, the sweet strains of French music set the tone for the day. It allowed anyone dining to escape to destination France while relishing in their delightful meals in one location,Trinidad. It is my opinion that meal times should never be rushed but sometimes hectic lifestyles do not afford us the luxury of a parsimonious breakfast, lunch or dinner. However, when one gets the opportunity to indulge they can choose to enjoy great food and even better company in French style.

Undeniably, what appealed to me the most was how much this cafe stood out amongst its competition. Its simplicity and old world charm yet new age sleekness is astonishing. This experience really put me in my zone too (so bad that I only remembered to buckle up my seat belt about half hour after departure from Peche Patisserie). Those of you who do not know what my zone is it is a state of ecclesiastical bliss and inner peace. It is a state of balance where the energy that surrounds me becomes a positive beacon for life.

Notwithstanding, food specially crafted by skilled hands with a soul that is passionate and purely benevolent with such talent will inevitably transfer light and love to the cafe, staff and customers who consume the chef’s offerings. It is obvious that Chef Ali understands and appreciates his craft very well. Again, this is clearly visible throughout the entire establishment from front line to back line all the way to the different points of service encounters.

We look forward to supporting Peche Patisserie as patrons of their business now and in the future.

Contact Peche Patisserie

1-868-223-2433

https://www.facebook.com/peche.patisserie

Super Foods = Super Powers

Posted on February 6, 2015by admin

So forget all the OTC (over the counter) drugs and the illegal ones that once caught you have to face dire consequences. There is a new “high” that is cost effective, legitimate, all natural and definitely pro body and mind! It just might be the world’s best kept secret from mankind! But as usual I cannot keep it to myself so I am just dying to fill you in on all the details! ( Super hero fanatics you may get your superpowers after all!)

My Fruit Salad Recipe

1/2 pear (chopped)

1 banana (chopped)

1/8 cup of pumpkin seeds

Method

Add ingredients to bowl

Toss them

Enjoy!

My Breakfast Story

I believe breakfast is the most important meal of the day. I hate when it gets skipped because a hungry person is an angry person (myself included). I love variety in any breakfast menu. It should never be boring! Hence, I started to introduce fruit salads rather than just have one fruit a day to the breakfast table. This week I added some pumpkin seeds to my morning fruit salad (see recipe above).

I loved the freshness, textures and the array of sweetness of the fruits and the crunch of the pumpkin seeds too. It took only a little while before my brain was dancing and singing (I really don’t know how else to explain it). I became somewhat happy. My mind was alert, my eyes felt like they opened up to a whole new world. My mind, my body and soul were at peace with each other. It lasted for the entire day and night. I did not feel tired at all. There was a sense of calm. Yet, I still felt as thought I had a boost of energy!

I could not fathom why this was happening or what was the reason so I did my research and I found the culprit or should I say miracle worker! This is the real deal! It works and it is so amazing that this stuff is natural and readily available at leading supermarkets and health stores nationwide. Could you have guessed pumpkin seeds were the super ingredients ?! If you guessed right, good for you! Now go take a pumpkin seed break!

Interesting Facts

Nutritional Value (0.25 cup)

(manganese 74%, phosphorus 57%, magnesium 48%, copper 48%, zinc 23%, protein 20%, iron 16%)

Benefits:

Get High-These little pieces of magic are a great source of magnesium which help increase the creation ATP (adenosine triphosphate) or the energy currency of life as it is known as the high energy molecule that stores energy for us to do everything that we do. This means there is an increase in the pumping of your heart.
Morning Flush Guaranteed (Look out for the evening flush too!) Of course there is fiber so you can rest assured there will be a flush some time after digestion.
Irie Vibes – We be Jammin’- The blood vessels become relaxed as a result of magnesium consumption. Finally, you can take the natural route to relax land.
Smile and Stretch- Strengthen your bones and teeth with this magnesium drug as it promotes bone and teeth formation.
Zinc will give you Super Powers
Get Immunity– improved health of the immune system
Network Coverage : ” Hellurr earth to body! Pick up the phone”- increasing the growth and reproduction of cells.
Mood Ring – stimulate moods and heighten senses of taste and smell
Maximum Coverage – The eye and skin are no exceptions from improved health with the consumption of zinc.
Regulator– Diabetics can also benefit as it promotes insulin regulation.
Keep the doctor away – Guys who are no too much into the healthy lifestyle guess what Zinc just may save you a trip to the doctor in your later years. There is proof that it improves overall health of prostate.
The Good Fat – This is a great source of Omega 3 , healthy fats, antioxidants and fibers for improved health of heart and liver.
Pause for a cause – There is an increase of good cholesterol. They decrease blood pressure levels. So women who are facing menopause and suffer from hot flashes, headaches and joint pains can now enjoy a natural alternative.
Goodbye Insomnia– Tryptophan is an amino acid found in this world wonder seed. The body uses it to convert into serotonin which is then converted to melatonin (the sleep hormone). It is recommended to pair it with some fruit (some hours before bedtime curfew) for a restful night!
Natural Analgesic-These anti inflammatory effects will make you forgo a trip to the pharmacy. It has been tested with proven potential to help arthritis patients.

So 2015 Cheers to a healthier and happier you!

Take care of yourself !

Come on you owe it to yourself to not only look good but feel good too!

Credits:

Information Source:

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/09/30/pumpkin-seed-benefits.aspx

More Recipes

http://www.seriouseats.com/2010/10/roasted-pumpkin-seeds-spicy-sweet-salty-recipes.html

Trinidad Carnival: The New Fashion Season

Posted on January 30, 2015by admin

International fashion gurus better stop the clock and change their calendar as there is a new fashion season in town. Although Carnival Fashion has been here a while its stamp is further embossed this year as it has grown to accommodate new fashion niches. Fashion is at an all time high during this time of the year! Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago is very different from the fashion weeks or fashion shopping months of other destinations. In this twin island state, Carnival may be perceived as two days of celebration but really it is a year round production as the cycle never ends. There are various genres of fashion as well as different concepts of “fashion houses” as they are mostly known as “mas camps” . Regardless, there is almost a certainty of some degree of creativity and expression reflected in design. This sentiment is transferred to the client who wears the item and immerses himself or herself to become one with the costume to play the role of masquerader.

(Photo Credit: http://www.redbullmusicacademy.com/magazine/moko-jumbies )

Trinidad Carnival has come a long way with wire bending, mental works and craft cutting skills that even require some knowledge of aerodynamics for some innovations. The evolution of Carnival has spanned many decades since the inception of emancipation. The freed colony donned shorts, skirts, blouses, head ties and t- shirts to play mas. The face mask was also popular. Even when they got banned from Carnival attire the emancipated people engineered a way to use the face mask as handheld masks. They would more often than not put them on in the event of the casual riots that took place after Carnival. But the creative people could only dream more fascinating costumes and decidedly crafted Sailor , Blue Devil, Moko Jumbie costumes to connect with African culture and reenact it in their newly adopted homeland.

(Photo Credit: http://www.tntisland.com/carnivalcharacters.html )

After World War II, Trinidad become home to many military folk. Hence, the inspiration to design military couture; gladiator style costumes, Grecian combat gear were inventive and spurred the design evolution on further. Pioneers like Peter Minshall came on the scene and used imported equipment and technology to speed up production for the demand or the output turnover of costumes in the mas camp . He continues to remain an icon for his contributions and portrayals that reflected the art of theater depiction and narrator style story telling in his Carnival mas concepts and productions.

(Photo Credit : https://www.facebook.com/pages/Peter-Minshall-Mas-Fans/477738325205 )

Over the years, a greater majority has pushed the Carnival artisans to their limit of filling this costume demand. Hence, the packaging of Carnival experience and costumes became prevalent. Today, there are younger masqueraders and designers. Nonetheless, the design has shifted to a ” less is more “ type of costume for some Carnival bands which are more popular with the young and upwardly mobile demographic who are concerned with their image.

( Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/PassionCarnival)

(Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/pages/KIRK-THOMAS-MAKEUP-ARTISTRY/57188897348 )

There are a few designers who still contribute to avant garde costuming. Another evolution is the idea of Carnival Monday Wear. Designers found a new niche to satisfy clients who do not have the time to sift through boutiques or cut up t-shirts and create their own wear for Carnival Monday or simply “fete couture”. Notwithstanding, the colour of Carnival resonates throughout this type of apparel as it did for decades. Yet, now more than ever embellishments and accessories such as ear cuffs, nail glam, make up even hair dyes and hair cuts are speaking volumes of style by their far from evanescent hues.

(Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/k2kcarnival )

(Photo Credit: http://instagram.com/p/yZ9oGTMT7V/?modal=true )

(Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/chandramaharajswimwear )

A spin off from all of this is the fitness fixation to get that body ready for the two day Carnival Street Party. Again another fashion niche is well put together for this arena. Colourful leggings and fitness gear customized to enable flexibility, comfort and confidence for the masquerader who is sweating off those Christmas carbohydrates and fatty tissues at the gym.

(Photo Credit: http://instagram.com/chandramaharaj/?modal=true)

Overall, Trinidadian designers have creativity pulsing in their blood and passion for the arts as their veins. So whilst change continues in Carnival fashion the number of Carnival participants increases annually and the desire to create, differentiate and celebrate is still burning at the heart of every artisan. There is no doubt that Carnival fashion is the new season of this year’s fashion calendar for local and regional “fashionpreneurs” and experts. It won’t surprise me if international fashion associations, designers, stylists, models and entrepreneurs flee their snow ridden countries for a chance to capture a glimpse of the ethereal fashion experience of Trindad Carnival Fashion (often celebrities and socialites are welcomed to participate in the festivities every year). After all who would pass up embracing this opportunity up close and personal in the sunny isles of paradise!

Photo Credit:

( http://www.ncctt.org/new/index.php/media-centre/news/56-downtown-carnival-celebrations-events.html )

"Trini" Alice in Filipino Wonderland

Posted on January 5, 2015by admin

The Honourable Dr. Eric Williams invited the Filipino community to Trinidad in 1964. This was just after his trip to the Far East. He may have realized that for such a skilled nation of 7,102 islands and over 103 million people it may have been competitive for the Filipinos to find work in their own job market. He may have also realized that this community which speaks English, Spanish and dialect Tagalog of Catholic and Muslim religions may have been similar to his multicultural state of Trinidad and Tobago. In addition, a lightning bolt idea probably struck him when he may have realized the resourcefulness and dual benefit to these citizens and to his Trinidad if he offered them employment by inviting these skilled professionals to fill the labour shortages in his country. Later they would arrive from the island of Cebu and the capital city of the Philippines, Manila to fill skill gaps as medical personnel, doctors, nurses, pharmacists and to assist with the restructuring of the then TELCO Trinidad telephone state services which were deplorable and affecting everyone including Dr. Eric Williams. Today, the estimated Filipino population in Trinidad is approximately over 1,000 persons. They are found in several skilled areas of engineering, medicine, construction, art, culture, business and culinary arts.

I have been fortunate to have been invited to their “potlucks” on several occasions (Birthdays and New Years Eve) to experience first hand Filipino culture. This is a house party with lots of Filipino food ( the Filipinos attending bring a dish or more to the table), karaoke singing and family (this does not necessarily mean blood relation but friends from the Filipino community in Trinidad). Filipino food is usually steamed or stir fried. Their diet is quite healthy and they consume less oil. Although, there is almost always the roasting of a pig over an open fire! This pig is stuffed with herbs and covered in coconut oil and roasted for flavor, texture and fat reduction! It is neither too salty or too sweet or too spicy but flavorful for the palate. Even if you are not family you are treated as though you are part of their household. There is plenty laughing and though they speak Tagalog their English is quite good and the “Trini” dialect as well! They are excellent hosts as they always make sure their guests are comfortable and happy. Their hospitality emanates like a pulsating aura of love and positive, clean, happy energy throughout their home from the minute they greet you throughout your stay even until you leave and get in your car ready to leave. One can reminisce that they went to the Philippines and returned to Trinidad as this culture immersion captivates individuals each time almost like magical realism to a “Trini” Alice in a “Filipino” Wonderland fairytale!

It is this very essence of culture immersion, adaptability and diversification that reflects how one nation, a twin island state can exist in peace with many others under one sun and one sky. Trinidad is blessed by this beautiful gem of multiculturalism. Even though we are many cultures the respect and appreciation for each other shout volumes of amplified unity and harmony as one body of a Trinbagonian identity.

So Live and Let Live,

Love and Be Loved,

Experience Culture & Respect Each Other

Represent Your Nation

Trinidad and Tobago

The True Caribbean

xoxo

Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago

Singh's Doubles-The Untold Barra Story

Posted on December 17, 2014by admin

The Origin of Doubles

The rumour is that doubles began in Princess Town when a barra vendor put two barras together with some channa and sold it. No one started started doubles in Debe rather the vendors started with doubles already founded by someone else. Debe Doubles began sixty five years ago.

Singh’s Doubles History

According to Harry Persad his Nanny, Barnie Bhoolai and Nana Ramrattan Bhoolai who started making the Indian delicacies. Basdeo Bhoolai started selling them at the markets. Basdeo got married and left to live in St. John’s Road, Avocat. He spoke about Namdeo Singh’s father, Parduman Singh and his mother together with Barnie and Ramrattan Bhoolai who continued the trade until they passed away and handed down the business to their children who are now the current owners.

After interviewing Namdeo Singh I found out that his grandmother sold the first jalebi in Trinidad made from a mixture of honey and spices. She also made sweets like tall boy (something like a twizzler), kurma and ladoo. Singh’s Doubles started with the barra, saheena and kachourie. This barra was sold with chutney. The ingredients for the barra came from urdi which was planted in Trinidad. Singh’s Barra was sold at markets and pay yards; Barrackpore oil field market, Golconda oil field market, Picton oil field market, Hermitage oil field market, Woodland oil field market. Caroni Limited workers would come by train to the market. Workers were paid in cash and were able to pay for their treats of barra on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays which were market days.

(Photo credit Introvertly Bubbly: http://introvertlybubbly.com/ )

The Transition

They moved from selling at markets to selling at the Debe junction next to a Chinese shop. Patrons bought their doubles on Fridays and Saturdays when they would frequent the Chinese shop. Huts and strips began when the Chinese owner, named Aqui , relative to the late Governor General Solomon Hochoy removed other persons from crowding his area and selling there.

Thirty five years ago they built huts at their homes and began selling their doubles from there . It was the family’s main source of income and it was a generational job as Namdeo’s ( the story teller) mother also sold at The Hummingbird Cinema to earn money to send Namdeo to the prestigious Naparima College by train. The Debe food strip began here at their homes.

Present Day

Currently, the business is 80 years old and has seventeen workers. It is passionately carried on because of the will to live the legacy of their grandparents. Singh’s Doubles is just one of the many food huts selling Indo Trinidadian fusion food in south Trinidad. It is the most distinguishable hut as it is the only hut that has seating and shelter from the rain for approximately fifteen people or more, it offers clean surroundings, bathroom facilities to customers and quality customer service to all.

Thank you Namdeo Singh for taking the time to share your family’s history with us!

7 Recipes for #TriniChristmasEnthusiasts!!!

Posted on December 5, 2014by admin

So you are far away from Trinidad and Tobago and won’t be coming home this year? Your “in-laws” are coming over to visit? You are caught in some deep “do da” now that you really want to impress that special someone with your cooking but don’t know how? How about you the one who just wants to make a nice Christmas dinner for the family but you can’t decide on the menu? Well don’t you worry your pretty self we have you covered. Here are 7 recipes to make your Christmas tastier and merrier!

1. Trini Pastelle

http://www.trinicooks.com/cookbook/item/specialty-recipes/pastelles-2

2. Trini Ponche de Creme

http://www.simplytrinicooking.com/2008/12/ponche-de-creme.html#axzz3L2aTGKRb

3. Trinidad Black Cake

http://www.simplytrinicooking.com/2008/12/trinidad-black-cake.html#axzz3L2aTGKRb

4. Sorrel

http://www.trinigourmet.com/index.php/sorrel-drink/

5.Trini Christmas Rice

http://www.simplytrinicooking.com/2011/12/christmas-rice.html#axzz3L2aTGKRb

6. Trini Christmas Ham

http://www.simplytrinicooking.com/2009/12/trini-christmas-ham-ii.html#axzz3L2aTGKRb

7. Ginger Beer

http://www.simplytrinicooking.com/2008/12/ginger-beer.html#axzz3L2aTGKRb

Click the links and see much more recipes below

http://www.trinicooks.com/cookbook/frontpage

http://www.trinigourmet.com/

Well it looks like our Trini chefs have everything under control for you!

So you can relax and enjoy the festivities of the season!

http://www.theydrawandcook.com/recipes/mrs-clauss-superfood-salad-by-jasmine-wall

(click the link above to see a really cool illustrated salad recipe courtesy Jasmine Wall)

10 Reasons you need a #ttfashioncation in your life this Christmas!

Posted on December 4, 2014by admin

Oh Christmas that time of the year when the air is a bit cold as Jack Frost’s is hunting down our far away Winter neighbours. In Trinidad,while we may be lucky to have our bake and shark at Maracas and eat it too this season is just as tumultuous! A Trini Christmas experience has similar gaiety and angst as we frolic around the house cleaning, decorating, cooking and the fashionistas begin stalking the shops to discover great finds to give the gift of fashion to someone or themselves!!!!!!! Does this sound familiar? You better get the girlfriends together and read this!

10 Reasons you need to pack up and get here on the next flight asap!

1. Duty Free Shopping

You so need to stop thinking about those crowded stores and long lines for Christmas! Do it duty free style this year. Start a new Christmas trend. Here is a nifty list for you to check out when you get here!

http://www.tntisland.com/dutyfree.html

http://caribbean-airlines.com/index.php/products-a-services/duty-free/overview

2. Shopping Markets

Hey this is the new hang out! The new place to meet up with old friends, make new friends, discover unique gifts, locally crafted with value to suit your pockets.

https://www.facebook.com/themarketatthenormandie/timeline

https://www.facebook.com/UpMarketTT

3. Designer Boutiques

Oooh if you are like me and swoon for chic island luxury then a few boutique stops will be on your list too!

https://www.facebook.com/BlueBasin

https://www.facebook.com/MeilingInc

https://www.facebook.com/NIXPIXX

https://www.facebook.com/kajdesigns

4. Island Accommodation

Let Trinidad and Tobago sweep you off your feet with our warm hospitality and tropical charm during your stay with us. Oh by the way where are you staying again? You can check these out! one of these has an amazing sea view while the other has the only revolving restaurant in the Caribbean!

https://www.facebook.com/MagdalenaGrand?fref=photo

https://www.facebook.com/capitalplazatrinidad?fref=photo

5. Trini Christmas

While you are here on the shopping extravaganza of your lifetime feel free to partake in our festivities!!! Here’s is one festival that captures the spirit of a true Trini Christmas. This includes food, parang music and a fabulous time!

https://www.facebook.com/events/315323895330833/

6. Christmas Villages

I’m sure you all have them too but ours is a bit different! You can enjoy more shopping with lots and lots of Christmas Village exhibits throughout the country. Here’s a popular one in the link below!

https://www.facebook.com/CelebratingLife.ChristmasVillage

7. Island Glitz and Glam

Come on the new year is so tomorrow and while you are here I highly recommend you get your glitz and glam fix from our certified personal stylists, hair gurus and make up artists! Let the transformation begin!

http://www.stephanieramlogan.com/

https://www.facebook.com/DollzBeautySpa

8. Trinidad Fashion History

Of course every destination has a story to tell and so does Trinidad. Pick up a copy of A Spirited Butterfly by Rosemary Stone and get comfy with your beach chair while you tan, lounge and learn all about the struggles, success stories and strife of a nation that aspires to be the premier fashion destination in the Caribbean.

https://www.facebook.com/ASpiritedButterfly

9. Fashion Design

Get interactive! No not online! Right here in Trinidad you can get inspired, be creative and design your own fashion pieces or take a workshop from one or two or more of our many designers.

https://www.facebook.com/kokokaribidesigns?ref=br_tf

10. Online Shopping

Oh yea so after you have found your favourite fashion and shopping items you are standing at the airport all teary eyed waiting on your flight. Now that the trip in the warm tropics with the happy sunshine people is over you can rest assured your shopping needs are covered by a local online shopping fashion-preneur and stylist Stephanie Ramlogan of No More Fashion Victims Inc.

https://www.facebook.com/NMFVinc

We wish you a fashionable Christmas and a fabulous holiday!

From all of us at Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago!!!

Fashion that Rocks

Posted on September 30, 2014by admin

On to the review…

Fashion That Rocks was hosted on the 27th September 2014 by local designer Jelesha Cunningham of design label Jay Jay’s Designs at the Point Fortin Town Hall. This was a fundraising fashion event. It was a contributory show to support her ‘send off’ to showcase her Trinidadian designs in a Houston fashion show later this year. In addition, this was also her debut of the collection entitled Ethel named after her grandmother. Other designers included RastaChiq Creationz, Kern Bess, Kendy’s Designs, K’s Image Jewelry, Afrodisiac, Daww Creations and many more. These collections covered swimwear, resort wear, urban wear, street style, menswear and kids wear. Jewelry sets and accessories like hand bags were also featured on the runway. One designer, Kern Bess also sought to introduce the patrons to a bit of avant garde fashion with creative dresses made of newspaper stuck together by tape.

The feature designer for the night was Jelesha Cunningham. She is the protege of iconic Trinidadian designer duo Zadd and Eastman who also hail from Point Fortin. Jelesha’s most valuable asset is her ability to play with design. This is an artistic direction that will guide her end result. Her apparent humble nature has reinforced her ability to understand her clientele, their demand, needs and the execution of the delivery of their requests. This comes across quite clearly on the runway in the fit of the clothing to the size of the models. Some of her designs catered to a niche of average to medium built and plus size women (who are often forgotten in the designer fashion industry). Hence, this experience and innate quality guides her to tailor design to supply this demand. This basic business principle is sometimes overlooked by many entrepreneurs. (The golden catch is when the designer foresees what the client needs or will need and want but the client does not yet expect. )

Her collection also revealed her skill to style different cuts and her drive to manipulate design (which is extremely nifty when designing for the everyday woman with the regular fashion problems; tummy bulges etc). In essence, designers do not always have to create something new because new does not guarantee good design. Furthermore, people must understand that creation is “something from which nothing had begot…” which means the act of making or doing something that never existed before. This is where innovation comes into play by the skill to use different materials, colours, textures, patterns, prints, cuts, stitches and accessories (zips, buttons, embellishments). Thankfully, Jelesha has acquired this savor faire as this is again blatant in her Ethel collection. Overall, she managed a good turn out of patrons for her event who thoroughly enjoyed her show.

Click below to stop and shop at Jay Jay’s Designs
https://www.facebook.com/pages/JaY-JaY-DeigN/161290660677441

Jay Jay’s Designs has the potential to be a local household name as well as an internationally acclaimed brand.

To: Jay Jay Cornwall
We love your purple hair! Congratulations on the new collection!
We wish you the best in your future endeavors
&
We would like to extend our gratitude to your assistant
Chantelle Edwards who was very professional, sincere and accommodating to us
From: Let’s Go Trinidad and Tobago
xoxo

Fashion Therapy – #IAM

Posted on September 16, 2014by admin

Fashion Therapy is a worldwide phenomenon that has deep roots in retail therapy, wearapy and art therapy. Retail therapy is a confession of almost every human being. Often we splurge on at least one item that we use to make us feel better by increasing self esteem and confidence. Do you give the gift of fashion? Do you love to help others through your profession or personal accord of styling, make up art , designing, shopping ? Do you practice those “do it yourself” tutorials revolutionizing your old sandals, accessories, creating turbans, head wraps from scarfs and scraps of cloth? Do you do this with your “besties” ? Well consider yourself part of the movement. What movement?! I’m sorry I meant the lifestyle. Yes, the lifestyle to incorporate healthy stress relieving activities into your monotonous and hectic schedule.

Back it up!!!

Multi millionaire divorcee Mouna Ayoub spent more than 500,000 pounds a year on designer clothing. She was married to billionaire Nasser Al Rashid in 1979. Then she used clothes as a form of retail and fashion therapy during her years in the isolated environment of the Saudi Arabian marriage. She is even quoted as saying, “Fashion became my medicine- my only way out of a very restricted life,” (Rose and Allen, Teenagers Get Fashion Therapy). Another concept, wearapy is a term coined by television personality and style expert Jeannie Mai. She is quoted explaining wearapy as her psychology of style, “colours, textures and the way we reveal our body shape can enhance, reflect and effect our every mood and thought. Fashion has the power to fuel our souls and create a specific audience of energy in our lives,” (Style Bistro, Jeannie Mai Dissects 10 Celebrity Styles).

There is further proof that fashion therapy is functional. The Arthur Centre at the University Hospital of Marseilles offers patients the opportunity to dress up in designer wear to raise self esteem and treat adolescent problems like anorexia and depression. It was noted that after the adolescents try on the designer clothes they are proud of their bodies again. There is reinforcement of positive behavior and extinction of negative behavior by trying to wean the teenagers off the behavior that is associated with their condition. Research at this unit has discovered that clothes are symptomatic to certain diseases. Bulimics prefer darker clothes and anorexics choose larger sizes. Hence bulimics are weaned to wear brighter colours. Soon the therapists notice progress when the teenagers start trying on clothes and progressing towards positive behavior. Then they leave the center. The center’s annual report of the first year has already indicated significant success (Rose and Allen, Teenagers Get Fashion Therapy).

But wait there is more… fashion is a form of creative art and design so it is also a form of art therapy (Oh yes it is!!). The American Art Therapy Association defines art therapy as “a mental health profession that uses the creative process of art making to improve and enhance the physical , mental and emotional well being of individuals of all ages. It is based on the belief that the creative process involved in artistic self expression helps people to resolve conflicts and problems, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior , reduce stress, increase self esteem and self awareness, and achieve insight,”(Cherry, What is Art Therapy). Basically thoughts, images, perceptions, feelings and imagination from the inner self are coerced to emerge from inhibition through art sessions of sculpting, painting, drawing and collage making.

In Trinidad there is music therapy (Jamal Glynn), play therapy (Healing with Horses) and art therapy (Sian MacLean) but there is certainly a prevalence of fashion therapy although it is not formalized. We love to dress up and change up our look to events, home gatherings, school, work, church, other religious associations and jaunts to the supermarket or Sunday market. There are local fashion markets (RackedTT), creative markets( Upmarket, ThingsTT), local designer boutiques (Woodbrook is becoming the local fashion district) and enough resources to acquire textiles (Jimmy Aboud The Textile King), accessories, embellishments (beadcafe) to create your own outfits and start designing your own look or enhancing it. There are local beauty and hair care brands such as Sacha Cosmetics, Immortelle Beauty, Cher Mere. Infinite independent make up artists with easy access tutorials online help you change up your look (allyuh know I not joking when I say infinite almost everyone of you reading this knows at least one local make up artist).

So in addition to your extra glass of Cabernet Sauvignon try some fashion therapy. The shopping for clothes, shoes, accessories, their inherent textures, colours, cuts, styles, the act of creating and reinventing your old outfits, personal appearance through make up, hair and nail art are just as therapeutic. Whether you do this alone, in groups or as a couple (yes this is not just for you ladies!) you have given yourself the freedom of expression of identity and the release of your pent up stress and anxiety.

So now that you know this is serious business and “pinky swear” with me not to take fashion therapy for granted (lol okay you don’t have to do it…it was just a figure of speech). But in future try not to bail on the next shopping spree, make over or reconsider going out because you take hours styling your OOTD (Outfit of the Day) or OOTN (Outfit of the Night). You might want to think about that favor you would be doing yourself. Oh and guys give the ladies a break and don’t hassle them when they take their time. It is merely because women are more emotional beings. They are trying to express themselves through their clothes and sense of style. The process of choosing an outfit is a detailed process that requires revisiting how certain colours and textures make them feel about themselves. This is unpredictable and can take from ten minutes to about an hour or more. So either learn a lesson from them, join them in this stress relieving venture or give them their time. Trust me it is definitely going to be worth your while in the long run.

Here are some useful links below

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-11932/Teenagers-fashion-therapy.html

http://www.stylebistro.com/How+Do+I+Look+-+Jeannie+Mai+Dissects+10+Celebrity+Styles

http://psychology.about.com/od/psychotherapy/f/art-therapy.htm

#fashiontherapytt

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