Trini Christmas Wish List – To Do

Posted on December 17, 2023by admin

If you are visiting Trinidad and Tobago for the Holidays there are many things to do to enjoy a true Trini Christmas. The people of Trinidad and Tobago are very creative. This boldfaced creativity is anything but seasonal. Anyone interested in the destination can spot this creative energy in the food, the music, the everyday lifestyle, the way the locals work and the way they party. Popular festivals such as Carnival highlight this creativity but the far lesser known and perhaps even captivating festivity also occurs during the Holidays, a pre-cursor to Trinidad Carnival.

Here are our Editor’s Top Picks for The Trini Christmas Wish List – Things to Do

“Up to Now” – Solo Exhibition by Nicholas Huggins

Are you captivated by creative murals and artistic direction that moves your soul? Nicholas Huggins is a local creative director and digital artist that you need to know. He has earned his stripes in the region for his creativity working with several established private and public sector entities. His career highlight came when he teamed up with Lennox Boogsie Sharpe (Pan Soloist), Etienne Charles (Composer)and Mick Seegobin (Motion Design) to create a Google Doodle for Google in celebration of steelpan. Nicholas’ design aesthetic is his signature love mark on this world. It is so distinct that even the untrained designer eye can identify it. If you have not fallen in love with his work yet there is still a chance that you will. Nicholas Huggins is hosting a solo art exhibition, “Up to Now” featuring prints from his digital work, paintings, drawings and so much more. This is an exclusive experience because this is his first ever solo exhibition. We promise that when you fall head over heels with his work you are going to want to grow in love with his pieces. Nicholas makes your wish come true this season as his exhibiting pieces are also available for sale. This means that you can take them home with you. It also means they are the quintessential Trini souvenir and gift for your loved ones away or for your best friends who enjoy representing their nationality by showcasing their patriotism.

"Up to Now" - Event Details

Date: 19^th to 23^rd December 2023
Location: Art Society of Trinidad and Tobago, Federation Park
Opening Night: Tuesday 19^th December 2023, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Exhibit Continues: Wednesday 20^th to Saturday 23^rd December 2023, 12 noon – 6 pm daily

RSVP

Paramin for Christmas, “The Experience” Hosted by Nakita Henry of Patriotic TT

If you enjoy a stayover in Trinidad and Tobago, here’s an all-inclusive experience that depicts an immersive tale of the origins and heritage that help define a Trini Christmas. The cocoa panyols (espanols) settled in several communities throughout the island when they brought their expertise in cocoa farming to the cocoa estate and industry. Cocoa panyols influenced Trini Christmas by sharing their traditions of music, food and festivity. One such community located in the pristine hills of Paramin is situated amidst some of the most spectacular scenic views. Tourists can expect to engage with the locals and see firsthand the preparations of an authentic Trini Christmas. Fortunately, Patriotic TT, a reputable company known for their patriotism and passion for Trinidad and Tobago has organized a tour this December that can’t be missed. Paramin for Christmas, The Experience has to be on the checklist for things to do in Trinidad this Christmas.

Date: 21^st December 2023
Time: 1pm to 6pm
Prices: TT$400/adult, TT$275/kid
Features: La Vigie Lookout, Caves, Church
Food & Drink: Bread and Ham, Pastelle, Sorrel, Local Wines
Experience: Traditional Cooking Artform for Trini Christmas Ham – Ham Boiling in Pitch Oil Tin
Listen: Live Parang Music
Bookings: patriotictt.com/paramin-tours
Phone: +1 868 – 784 – 5269

Book Now

UpMarket - Trini Christmas Market

The creative work of Trinbagonians; the creative entrepreneurs, the artists, the designers and the artisans is loud enough to speak volumes of the nation’s creative imagination. Creative markets are events that highlight art, craft, food and unique finds and take place throughout the calendar year. The adept hosts of creative markets in Trinidad and Tobago offer a Christmas twist for the holidays with festive creations inspired by local culture. Any visitor looking for the real treasure of the islands will find the bounty at these markets. The creative energy at these markets is so invigorating that one has to experience it to believe it. Visitors will find bespoke designs, rare keepsakes and design inspiration there. There are lots of markets to choose from with each offering a convenient location and an incredible mix of artisans and creativity. UpMarket is the first established and longest standing creative market in Trinidad and Tobago. The market curator, Janet Bloom Fabres positions the UpMarket experience as the premier market in the destination. This Christmas visitors enjoy flexible shopping with day and night time markets at The Lions Cultural Centre in Woodbrook.

Day Markets - 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Sunday 17^th Dec. 2023
Saturday 23^rd Dec. 2023
Sunday 24^thDec. 2023

Night Markets - 3 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Wednesday 20^th Dec. 2023
Thursday 21^st Dec. 2023
Friday 22^nd Dec. 2023

Go There

Happy Holidays!

Trini Christmas Wishlist – To Taste

Posted on December 9, 2023by admin

Trinidad and Tobago is a true diamond in the rough with a topography that retained some of the rainforests and biodiversity from its South American neighbours before the Pangea split. This southernmost twin island republic is situated just outside the hurricane belt. This means the destination has been fortunate to avoid the wrath of cataclysmic storms and hurricanes during the tyranny of the rainy season. The destination was formerly inhabited by native Amerindians; the Tainos and the Kalinagos. They would soon fall under the ‘protection’ of the Spanish colonizers. European settlers like the French, the Portugese and the Dutch also become part of the changing demographic before its final ownership and freedom from its British colonizers. India, Africa, China and the Middle East would soon call Trinidad their new home before the destination gained their independence in 1962. Today, the country is a diverse blend of cosmopolitan races and ethnicities enriched by tradition and cultural practices. It is this blended ancestral lineage that births an indescribable energy which serves as the impetus for creativity and innovation. Unmistakably, this is evident in the design of Trinidad Carnival, the fashion and creative experiences within the lingering notes of the island's music and the delicate balance of flavour in the destination's sumptuous cuisine.

Christmas in Trinidad and Tobago is another opportunity for visitors to truly experience the warmth of the destination and the multifaceted Trini Christmas menu. Caribbean islands share similarities in the historical origins of some of the items that appear on the Trini Christmas menu. Trinidad Black Cake is a dense and moist fruitcake darkened by homemade or store bought browning. Its origins are traced to the British colonizers and their savoir faire for plum pudding. Pastelle is another tradition. It is similar to the Latin American tamale but quite different in the complexity of its preparation, pressing and wrapping process. It has several origins with stories of its arrival from the cocoa panyols (the Venezuelans who came to work on the cocoa estates) , the native Amerindians and even bearing a resemblance to a cooking technique shared by African and European settlers. The same cocoa panyols are credited for the ponche de crème/ponche ah crème. Unlike the Venezuelan’s thickly constituted ponche crema, the Trini adaptation is a thinner yet smooth and creamy libation of Trinidad rum, milk, eggs, sweetened condense milk or sugar, homegrown spices like nutmeg and a hint of lime zest. The flavour dimensions of ponche de crème is guaranteed to intrigue and excite the senses every year.

The older folks are keen on their ginger beer popularized by the Spice War and also bearing British birthrights. The ginger crop was brought to Trinidad and has survived to date. The classic ginger beer exists with its fermented starter base but Trinis have added their own twist with the addition of cinnamon spice sticks, nutmeg and aniseed. Finally, there is a Trini Christmas condiment that packs a full flavour punch but often goes underestimated and overlooked. Picalilli or chow chow is a relish of combined vegetables and sometimes fruits sharing a similar pickled taste to its British relative Picalilli. This condiment has been manufactured and packaged by Matouks and it is available at most leading supermarkets nationwide. It usually accompanies a serving of ham and hops bread, pastelles and more. The seasoning, flavouring and fusion methods of preparation and creative experimenting transforms the taste of Trini Christmas.

The gastronomy of Trini Christmas is further elevated by Trini entrepreneurs and professionals in their various culinary fields. They were forged from the birthplace of fusion culture and now they champion culinary innovations backed by patriotism, passion for the culinary arts and premium quality ingredients and high standard processes. They continue to push the limitless boundaries of their craft and stand out in their respective culinary professions.

Here are our Editor’s 6 picks for The Christmas Wish List – To Taste

Cocobel Chocolate

This architect turned chocolatier is taking her award winning chocolate making to higher heights. In addition to her chocolate creations this year Isabel Brash has released yet another alluring Trini Christmas dessert menu that is tempting everyone to treat themselves this Christmas. These gourmet delicacies save time and energy. All the hard work is already done and readily available for pick up with carefully sculpted and hand painted culinary delights. The options are so divine that there is a 100 % guarantee that each item will be a rock star to that Trini Christmas office party or that Christmas breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner party that begs for a gourmet facelift. These items are novel housewarming gifts and act as an exceptional ice breaker to the homes of the dreaded ‘in laws’ (especially if they have a sweet tooth you know you will instantly be dubbed a ‘keeper’). Cocobel’s Christmas desserts are always gone in the blink of an eye so place those orders early for pick up at Cocobel Chocolate located on #37 Fitt Street in Woodbrook Port of Spain just upstairs from The Medulla Art Gallery.

SHOP NOW

Dreamy Creamy Ice Cream Company

Craig Smith’s local family owned ice cream brand is a beloved favourite for locals and tourists. International culinary enthusiasts rave that this family owned ice cream is on par with Italy’s best gelato. Fans familiar with the regular menu can attest to Dreamy Creamy’s cheeky ice cream names, their gratuitous serving sizes and their availability in several leading supermarkets and shops nationwide. This year, Dreamy Creamy’s Trini Christmas ice cream flavours are back on the menu and they are going pretty fast. Visitors or Trini Christmas ‘bantons’ wishing to snag a cup, a cone, a liter or two must act now. This is a great addition to the Christmas menu for kids and adults alike. Conveniently located on Saddle Road Maraval, Coffee Street San Fernando and S.S. Erin Road Debe Penal, these are the best gifts for the ice cream aficionado in your life.

SHOP NOW

L’eau Pont Winery

Red hibiscus is brewed into a drink that the Caribbean has long consumed on their Christmas menu. Trinis call this red drink Sorrel and serve it ‘on the rocks’. A local winery has captured the rich full bodied flavour of the red hibiscus in a classy bottle of port wine. This perfect Christmas gift is available for direct order and pick up at selected wine shops locally. This sorrel port is almost always sold out every year for those who are too late in their Christmas shopping. It is the quintessential wine that accompanies a delectable Christmas dinner and even the right dessert pairing. For the daring home chefs, it is an accoutrement to their specially designed gourmet Christmas menu.

SHOP NOW

Tami’s Dee - lightful Ponche de Crème

The art of making Ponche de crème or Ponche ah Crème comes with a learning curve. It is okay to admit this minor defeat in the kitchen and leave this skill to the experts like Tamara from Tami’s Dee-lightful Ponche de Crème. By Trini birthright, she understands the dexterity of fusion food and beverage and its industry. In addition, to the original flavour of Ponche de crème she offers her moniker in a collection of holiday flavours for ponche de crème lovers. Her unforgettable creations are available in several sizes and for this reason they are perfect as a gift for visitors and an excellent choice to serve at the Christmas office party or Trini Christmas lime.

SHOP NOW

Gina’s Chocolates

Trinidad has award winning chocolatiers like Gina Hardy. Gina’s Chocolates is an artisan chocolate brand with Gina at the helm. She has perfected the divine art of chocolate making to the point that the discerning food critics can distinguish, award and celebrate the difference. Visitors to the island and locals looking for that signature gift for that special someone can look no further. Gina’s Chocolates has launched fifteen of their best chocolate truffles since opening shop and they are all available in boxes of several quantities. She has also designed some fun stocking stuffers with individually wrapped chocolate coins available in a variety of flavours. This season her fine flavour chocolates include Trini Christmas fillings that will surprise and satiate the taste buds of everyone from the untrained palette to the chocolate critic to the foodie adventurer. For anyone who has a fear of missing out, orders are to be placed early for pick up before or by the allotted deadline.

SHOP NOW

Cheesecake House TT

Visitors no longer have to wait until they get to another world famous factory with this namesake to enjoy cheesecake. The culinary entrepreneur has been throwing cheesecake parties ever since she can remember in New York and Trinidad. Jineal Chichester has as much passion and flair for cheesecake as her adoring cheesecake fans. Her discipline and training as a former graduate of the University of the West Indies and a former Royal Naval Officer does not permit her to shy away from her endeavors and her creativity. Trini blood flows through her creative veins so much so that classic Trini Christmas flavours have become a staple in her innovative cheesecake cones, shakes and slices. The diaspora and visitors to Trinidad and Tobago don’t leave without visiting her food truck at Cross Crossing in San Fernando and they never fail to place their orders to pick up. Dessert lovers have already adopted Cheesecake House TT as a staple to their Trini Christmas menu.

SHOP NOW

The Cathedral Basilica of The Immaculate Conception

Posted on May 31, 2018by admin

This year I met with some tourists from Virginia U.S.A. They were also well travelled global citizens who remarked how much Trinidad reminded them of Hawaii. Something about our chill island vibe, the beaches and the abundance of readily available roadside fruit made them feel this way. They also compared us to Saudi Arabia because our oil and gas refinery nightscape resembled one of the many nights during their stay in the Middle East. However, the one thing that stood out to them was our architecture and the disregard for segmentation in geographic development. By this I mean there is little separation between residential and commercial areas. Now I am not saying that we absolutely do not have separation or zoning because in some areas we do. However, more often than not one is met with fancy dining restaurants smack in the middle of an industrial or manufacturing sector with residential and commercial plots within walking distance from each other. Needless to say they all coexist in harmony.

Quite interestingly one can travel to any other destination and easily identify the architecture and the zone in which a specific type of design style belongs. We have been privy to many influences and the architecture that thrived during the reign of each passing era and the change of hands of ownership. Diversity does not stop there as those who survived the post emancipation period were able to build and design their own homes and businesses using knowledge, skill not forgetting design from their own cultural backgrounds. Hence the result todal is a multifaceted island designer collection of architecture and interior design. The Cathedral Basilica of The Immaculate Conception is one of those relics that has survived to depict this tale. It sits in the capital city, Port of Spain, a bustling district that is also not exempt from (my aforementioned rambling about) lack of zoning. The Cathedral beams magnificence in plain sight. She graces us with her poise and beauty. She is an emblem of hope for the future signifying the strength and power of a nation that has been through a lot but still stands today.

(Photo Credit: “Part 1 The Cathedral of Immaculate Conception,” Trinidad Guardian)

The Cathedral of Immaculate Conception was the first Catholic Church in Port of Spain. It was built by the then Spanish Governor in 1781 and at that time it was not yet a cathedral. An English Governor decided that there was a need for a bigger and better church to accommodate the growing catholic population. In 1816 the foundation stone was set. The shape of the building took the form of a cross. The materials used to build this church included blue metal and limestone sourced from the Laventille quarries. However, iron framework was imported from England for the doors and windows. It was not until 1822 that this church became a Cathedral. In 1851 Pope Pius IX ranked the church as a Minor Basilica.

(Photo Credit: The Front View of The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception , Pinterest)

The design of the Cathedral is heavily Gothic Revival which borrows some features from the gothic era (1150- 1400). There is no surprise that the cathedral’s design was inspired by this style. Aptly, the timing of design and construction coincided with the gothic revival movement that took place whilst the English Governor was in Trinidad. The gothic revival was a movement that began in England in the second half of the 18^th century. This style of design reveals a pious mood, one of righteousness and high minded thinking evident in most religious and scholarly institutions. We owe the architects of that era our gratitude. At that time they used creative thinking and design management in technological advancement to conceptualize and execute their design theories. The end result were a few marvelous design solutions to reduce building mass whilst trying to increase space and light in this gothic revival style.

(Photo Credit: The Inside View of The Cathedral of The Immaculate Conception, Fidelity Electronics Limited)

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception maintains pointed arches which take the weight off the ceiling to balance an overall irregular structure of the building. Yet, it keeps a common ceiling area. There are pinnacles, spires and lots of window tracery. There are ribbed vaults with thinner walls to increase space in the cathedral. The flying buttresses act as a form of support for the walls and ceiling. They take the weight off the walls and transfer them to the ground. This meant more space was used for window installation. Thus more natural light can enter the cathedral. The overall emphasis throughout the design style is vertical. Amidst the beige colour scheme going on for the cathedral’s exterior there was the incorporation of artistic and decorative elements with bursts of colour on the interior. There are statues inside the building as well as a prominent virtuous lady on the upper exterior of the building.

(Photo Credit: The Side View of The Cathedral of The Immaculate Conception, Wikimedia)

The Cathedral of Immaculate Conception is listed as a heritage site at #31 Independence Square Port of Spain. She has been given much care to maintain her structure and stature. If you live in this destination you should definitely find your way to the capital to see what all the hype is about. If you intend on visiting Trinidad, our citizens would love to host you and they eagerly await your arrival. I guarantee you that we are second to none in our cuisine, culture and lifestyle. You just have to experience it to believe it!

Svaada Gourmet Indian Kitchen – The Review

Posted on January 20, 2018by admin

If you are as selective as I am with what you expose your mind, your heart, your eyes and your taste buds to the world can still be a fabulous place, especially the world of culinary adventures. I have never really been a fan of Indian cuisine but I must admit that it has been something I grew to love over the last few years. I mean I am Trinidadian and us locals, we love to add a bit of heat to our food. Yet the difference in our palette may concern itself with adding pepper rather than flavour. In these instances we burn off our tongues so much that if we eat another bite we would be torturing ourselves. Yet still some of us do it for the “thrill” I guess. However, Indian food has these spice infusions that play twister with our taste buds but still allows us to satiate our craving and return for seconds. I found Svaada Gourmet Indian Kitchen at One Woodbrook Place. It’s a mini trip to modern India without leaving home sweet home, Trinidad.

Svaada Gourmet Indian Kitchen Logo

Photo Credit: Svaada Indian Gourmet Kitchen Facebook Page

Svaada is the sweetest mix of modern and traditional interior design styles. The symmetrical balance in this space is impeccable. The use of natural and artificial light give birth to a warmth that beckons the “foodie” to curl up on their chair and dive into comfort. There are circle lights that rim the perimeter of the ceiling. There are incredible pendant lights that look lotus flowers which hang over the tables adorning and serving their due purpose. Rectangles and squares keep this space feeling stable, secure and the infiniteness of the circles evoke feelings of commitment, completeness with graceful, nurturing and soothing effects. The vertical lines make this kitchen appear taller. Effective horizontal lines broaden the space whilst drawing the lines of sight down to be restful and at ease for one to enjoy this cuisine experience.

The use of pops of colour amid the monochromatic colour scheme is quintessential. Red is fiery and full of love and passion. It is also a dominant colour used to stimulate the appetite. The setup of the furniture is a seating arrangement for families and groups to not only dine together but to engage in conversation more. Most of the materials used are wood, metal and glass. The surfaces are smooth and glossy as well as matte. The floor is smooth and feels like polished stone in a dark hue consistent with a dark ceiling which contrasts in texture with its matte finish. The walls are off white and reign the bold red with the purity and innocence of this cream shade. The table tops are dark brown and match with the wooden chairs. Brown is often associated with stability and security hence its use here. The chrome and plastic chairs match up with the floor as well as the glass/steel combination of doors and windows.

An outsider’s view of the Svadda Gourmet Indian Kitchen

Photo Credit: Svaada Indian Gourmet Kitchen Facebook

Colours, lighting fixtures, furniture is repeated throughout the space provoking an ebb and flow to be pure rhythm. The view from the glass doors and windows are the main focus points as are the kitchen and the kitchen island. Yes there is a kitchen island that happens to be a condiment station! The flavours range from sweet to tangy to spicy. They are quite intriguing and are anything but limitless. The proportion and scale to the design in this space works well the open plan concept. Any room for negative space is avoided with proper placement of food culture photography on these walls. There is even a hot towel station (can you imagine my excitement at this little luxury?!).

Svaada’s staff members are attentive, polite and knowledgeable about their menu. The food is affordable and the wait time is not very long. Usually, one places their order and takes a seat. Then the staff wheels in your order if you are dining in and not taking out. You can have a hot towel to wipe your hands clean. Your meal will be served in traditional styled Indian wares that make a sumptuous picture for all of you “insta” foodie bloggers. I am in love with their naan bread particularly their aloo and cheese (I am pescetarian so I don’t eat meat). Their naan is so soft and fluffy and really make you feel all warm and cosy. I have relished in their paneer as well which happens to be an exceptionally prepared dish. If you ever consider ordering from Svaada there is a complimentary bread that is served as an appetizer whilst you wait for your food (if you are Trinidadian and you are familiar with shrimp crackers it is basically the same texture except bigger without the shrimp flavour).

Chicken Tikka Masala, Chilli Paneer, Complimentary Bread, Aloo Naan, Cheese Naan

Photo Credit: Samsung Galaxy 7

Svaada Gourmet Indian Kitchen may be the closest thing we have to a modern Mumbai Café. It is not overdone. The focus is on the quality of food, customer service and managing that “soon come” factor. This means their customers are literally in a position where they almost indefinitely crave to return to try more of this “foodie experience”. They are open from Monday to Saturday at 11 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. On occasion they are open on Sundays. Parking is on the ground floor. Dining is casual so there is no need to get bothered to be fancy unless “being extra” is your specialty (then get on with your “extra” self hunny). They accept walk in customers and they are highly recommended for groups. Their contact number is 1.868.628.5674. Also you can write to them at geevans@hotmail.com. You can follow them on facebook https://www.facebook.com/Svaadagourmetindiankitchen/

Kaj Designs Hosts Legacy Atelier

Posted on January 7, 2018by admin

Kaj Designs Hosts Legacy Atelier

Mid-Luxury Fashion House Bids Farewell To 2017 With Exclusive Retail Experience

KajFAB models strike a pose in front of the Kaj Flagship Boutique. From left to right: Fertility tank dress; long sleeved evening dress; silk kaftan; and maxi dress with ring accent. Makeup by Lyndy-Anne Parks of Lady Parks Makeup Studio. Photo courtesy Kyle Keens-Dumas of Konsortium Studios for Kaj Designs.

January 4, 2018 – Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago… Tobago’s premier mid-luxury fashion house, Kaj Designs, will usher in the New Year and 2018 Carnival seasons with an exclusive Kaj Legacy Atelier. KajFAB femmes will enjoy 50% off all legacy items as the brand celebrates the bold, signature flair gained over its disruptive 12-year history in Caribbean fashion. Featuring both limited edition and one-of-a-kind creations from several Kaj collections including the resort wear of Shore Culture and Tribu Sauvage, the atelier will run throughout the New Year and Carnival seasons by private viewing only, while stocks last.

Kaj’s provocative innovation, the Signature Halter Lounge Shuffle, was first shown as part of the Shore Culture runway presentation at the 10th Caribbean Fashionweek (CFW) in June 2010 in Kingston, Jamaica. Photo courtesy Pulse Investments Limited.

In June 2010, Kaj premiered the barefoot luxury of the Shore Culture collection at the 10^th Caribbean Fashionweek (CFW) in Kingston, Jamaica. The CFW audience welcomed the scintillating charms, textures and tones of the Caribbean as it set sail with the first-ever Kaj Resort collection. The fashion house presented a sea of undulating fabrics in rich tones of magenta, fuchsia and teal with flowing, easy creations befitting a luxurious vacation of leisure. Reflecting the sun-kissed iridescence of its Caribbean landscape, the collection lavishly drapes the feminine contour in ribbons of ombré and tie-dyed chiffons, silk rayons, silk satins, organzas and crepe georgettes with subtle accents in suede, leather, taffeta, coque and pheasant plumes and coconut shell. Designed with versatility and feminine comfort in mind, the effortless silhouettes of Kaj’s Shore Culture collection can be worn in the day and night, ideal for festive New Year and Carnival functions.

A captive audience was treated to the majesty of Kaj’s sheer strapless Bohemian lounge dress, with wooden beaded fabric accents, at the 2010 CFW during the Shore Culture presentation. Photo courtesy Pulse Investments Limited.

In June 2011, Kaj marked an historic milestone with its launch in the French Caribbean and the placement of the Kaj Resort line at Guadeloupe’s exclusive Caribbean boutique, KOD. This move established KOD as the first retailer of the Kaj brand in the region. In February 2012, Kaj received one of its highest honours as it was selected to represent the Caribbean in an initiative of the Caribbean Export Development Agency (CEDA) entitled Caribbean Collections. This initiative sought to create opportunities for access to European markets via participation in the British Council and the British Fashion Council’s inaugural International Fashion Showcase for Autumn/Winter (A/W) 2012 during London Fashion Week (LFW). For the label’s LFW debut, Shore Culture was favoured as it featured at an LFW-produced exhibition held at The Charing Cross Hotel while select pieces featured at a private showing at the Corinthia Hotel.

Folded envelope tunic and Bermuda shorts from the 2010 Kaj Resort collection, Shore Culture. Makeup by Lyndy-Anne Parks of Lady Parks Makeup Studio. Photo courtesy Kyle Keens-Dumas of Konsortium Studios for Kaj Designs.

A trailblazer in Caribbean fashion, Kaj boasts several accomplishments that are irrefutable Caribbean fashion firsts. In a pioneering move to capture international markets, the Tobago fashion house made history with the May 2013 launch of its sophomore resort collection, Tribu Sauvage, in USA and Singapore. Kaj was the first Tobago brand at ENK International’s exclusive fashion tradeshow, Intermezzo Collections, a staple of the US fashion trade circuit. With its humble Intermezzo debut, Kaj successfully captured the attention of New York’s leading fashion industry publication, The Daily Front Row. Amidst more than 900 of the world’s foremost fashion brands, Kaj was featured in TheDailyFrontRow.com’s haute highlights alongside Alice and Olivia, Nicole Miller, L.A.M.B. and Rebecca Minkoff.

The KajFAB safari of the Kaj Resort collection, Tribu Sauvage, featured on the catwalk at the inaugural Fashion Festival Bali in August 2013 at the luxurious Stones Hotel in Bali’s Legian region. Featured is Kaj’s maxi dress with ring accent. Photo courtesy Anggara Mahendra

Later that same month, the brand led as the first Caribbean brand to exhibit and show at the international fashion tradeshow, BLUEPRINT, during Singapore’s fashion week, Asia Fashion Exchange (AFX). With its runway debut at BLUEPRINT, Kaj’s creations of bold tribal infusions set against a backdrop of wild animal and camouflage prints stood out among the pervading contemporary Asian aesthetic.

Kaj’s trendsetting camo raglan tunic with daring waist-high side slits, of the Tribu Sauvage resort collection, on the runway at the 2013 Fashion Festival Bali at the Stones Hotel, a Marriott Autograph Collection hotel. Also featured is Kaj’s faux-pocket maxi skirt. Photo courtesy Anggara Mahendra.

These favoured pieces later graced the runway at the inaugural Fashion Festival Bali (TFFB) in yet another daring move by the fashion house to forge ahead in infiltrating South Asian markets. On August 31, 2013, in the closing show presented by Indonesia TATLER, Kaj brought its signature flair to the TFFB runway. The high profile, 7-day event took place at the lavish Stones Hotel in Bali’s Legian region. Set against the breath-taking backdrop of one of the world’s leading tourist destinations, TFFB attracted an exclusive audience of media, fashion professionals and enthusiasts, leisure travellers and Asian Pacific celebrities and socialites including Michael and Lindy Klim and Casey Burgess.

The bold simplicity of Kaj’s Tribu Sauvage resort collection was captured during a 2015 Global Runway promotional photo-shoot on location in Verona, Italy. Featured are Kaj’s magyar tee with tribal pocket accents and its classic trousers with pocket accents. Photo courtesy Global Runway.

With a steadfast focus to establish Kaj as the Caribbean’s foremost mid-luxury fashion brand, the fashion house embarked on a strategic mission to penetrate European markets. This led to the launch of the Kaj Resort line at the Martinique-based online boutique, Kameri, in September 2014. In Nov 2014, the brand’s CEO, Liza Miller, was one of three female entrepreneurs selected to be part of exporTT’s gender programme participating in the CARTFUND French Caribbean Outermost Region (FCOR) trade mission alongside nine other Trinidad and Tobago companies. This opened the door to fourteen B2B meetings with buyers and other trade partners that generated ten trade leads. This was closely followed by the brand’s January 2015 launch at the Martinique-based boutique, Pygmées. By the last quarter of 2015, Kaj was introduced to the thriving UK luxury fashion market via its distribution with the London-based online boutique, Global Runway, coupled with an advertising campaign in Britain’s lavish specialist consumer magazine, Destinations Weddings and Honeymoons Abroad (DWHA). Kaj further strengthened its market presence as DWHA’s exclusive international fashion brand and partner at two of London’s leading trade events, The National Wedding Show (TNWS) and the World Travel Market London (WTM London). This was accompanied by Kaj’s retail placement at Guadeloupe’s exclusive boutique, Jheipour.

The sensual tribal infusions of Kaj’s long sleeved evening dress in a taupe, cream and black print captivate in the streets of New York City during a 2015 Global Runway promotional photo-shoot of the Tribu Sauvage resort collection. Photo courtesy Global Runway.

Kaj will commemorate this legacy of cutting edge creative excellence, fine quality and timeless luxury with its ongoing Kaj Legacy Atelier. KajFAB femmes may experience the exclusive versatility and impeccable finish of the Kaj Designs brand, shopping limited edition classic resort as well as one-of-a-kind legacy pieces including the brand’s signature innovation, the Shuffle. Join the Kaj Legacy Atelier Facebook (FB) event at http://bit.ly/KajLegacyAtelier or visit Kaj on FB at fb.me/KajDesignsLIVE or on Twitter and Instagram @KajDesignsLIVE to stay in the KajFAB know. For more information, email KajLegacy@estuaryPR.com.

Kaj’s exhibitor’s booth at the fashion tradeshow, BLUEPRINT, during Singapore’s fashion week, Asia Fashion Exchange (AFX). Photo courtesy estuary PR.

WHAT: Kaj Legacy Atelier

WHO: Kaj Designs

WHEN: Throughout the New Year and 2018 Carnival seasons, while stocks last.

WHERE: By private viewing only.

PAYMENT: Cash and cheque payments accepted.

-30-

For media inquiries, please contact:

Liza Miller, Managing Director

estuary PR Limited

Phone: (868) 367-5295

Email: liza@estuaryPR.com

www.estuaryPR.com

Meiling, The Designer Icon for Bridal 2017

Posted on May 22, 2017by admin

Simple Silhouette Wedding Dress

Photo Credit: http://www.meilinginc.com/meiling-bride/

Bridal season is in full swing and brides are scampering to “say yes to the dress”. My heart goes out to the destination brides who are panicking over deciding whether they should go with silk, satin, taffeta, chiffon, lace or cotton blended fabrics for the tropics, finding the right hues for their bridesmaids, checking in the dress and woes of paying exorbitant fees only to arrive stressed out, in full “bridezilla” mode with a wrinkled wedding dress in hand at their dream destination wedding location. Rest assured brides, brides to be, bridal party and guests you can find top notch, internationally acclaimed fashion designers in Trinidad and Tobago who can hear your S.O.S and save your life for your “big” day.

Off Shoulder Lace Wedding Dress

Photo Credit: http://www.meilinginc.com/meiling-bride/

The destination wedding dress designer that beams of an effortlessly chic Caribbean aesthetic is Meiling Esau, otherwise known by her brand name Meiling Inc. This designer grew up in an environment where her mother, Evelyn Achong was a prominent woman in her field as a seamstress. Meiling’s passion for this fashion led her to pursue her studies at Lucie Clayton School of Design in London in the 1970’s. Meiling was immersed in the creative culture of London. She was exposed to creatives, creative design, creative thinking and design management. Meiling graduated and returned to her homeland. After working at a garment factory where one of her prototypes became a top seller Meiling decided to stand on her own and set up her own atelier in 1982.

Vintage Wedding Dress

http://www.meilinginc.com/meiling-bride/

Since Meiling’s debut on the fashion industry scene she has copped many achievements some of which include the Chaconia Silver Medal in 2008 for her longstanding merit to the Trinidad and Tobago business sector. In that same year she was awarded the title of “Grand Master of Fashion Design” at Caribbean Fashion Week in Jamaica. In 2010 she was one of two designers from the English speaking Caribbean invited to showcase at Plataforma K in Colombia. In 2011 she was the only one invited to return to show. In 2012 The Association of Female Executives of Trinidad and Tobago honoured Meiling with The Woman of Influence Award. In 2013 she was listed as a national icon of Trinidad and Tobago. She was also invited as one of the top global designers to the Women of Influence Summit in that year. She received Ocean Style Award in 2013.

Lace Sleeves and Details for Wedding Dress

http://www.meilinginc.com/meiling-bride/

Today Meiling’s aesthetic is considered minimalistic however I prefer the term Caribbean chic. Her focus is on the quality of work and her talent is found in design and craftsmanship. In the age of digital printing and mass production Meiling adds the extra “oomph” to her work with hand sewn details. In addition, she still believes in her mother’s words that the inside and outside of the garment being constructed must have a beautiful finish. She has designed uniforms and outfits for Trinidad and Tobago athletes to top entertainers. As a creative she has surrounded herself in creative spaces with veteran creatives such as Peter Minshall. Her product line is differentiated from her own clothing lines in haute couture, resort and bridal to her diffusion line entitled, “MSquared” for the local retail department store Micles and recently she added on Meiling Complete featuring scent diffusers, candles and body creams.

Lace Detail on Wedding Dress

Photo Credit: http://www.meilinginc.com/meiling-bride/

So now that you have a fair idea of the brand (Meiling Inc.) we can begin to explore your options for saying “yes to the dress”. Meiling has an established repertoire in the Caribbean and the Latin American community for her work in the local fashion industry. She has a keen eye for detail and a unique vision based on her knowledge and functioning in several destinations with her clients including brides and some eloquent to brazen personalities from multifaceted cultures. Meiling has worked with contemporary and vintage designs in fabrics that range from silk, satin, lace with intricate embellishments and hand beading to name a few. The advantages of choosing Meiling include a 100% guarantee that your wedding dress will be a timeless design and that you will stand out. The quality of the garment construction is flawless. Your dress will flatter your figure and accentuate your best highlights. You will be in the proficient hands of the expert who is familiar with silhouette to body type ratios in fashion. Also you will have several fittings in the lead up to final production.

Unconventional Bridal Gown

Photo Credit: http://www.meilinginc.com/meiling-bride/

Your wedding dress will not just be a product you bought off a rack but the result of an inimitable, delicate creative process where your soul is reverberated throughout the statement piece. This means whilst the designer will design and create the dress you too will have a direct say in perfecting your look for that memorable day. Your dream wedding dress becomes a reality. When you look back on the occasion you will not just have the snapshots of that point in your life. You will have a reminder of your identity at that stage in your life, a reflection of your growth and transition to your new role in life and most importantly it will stand the test of time as evidence of your power to create and to contribute to the collateral beauty that is life.

White Top with Lace

Photo Credit: Shaista Deen

The Veronica Dress

Photo Credit: Jordan Lum Hung

As a bonus you can also fit the “M” brand into your wardrobe with Meiling’s latest resort wear collection for your destination soiree/ island romp with your newlywed husband. Choose from a variety cotton blends and light, breathable fabrics for your destination honeymoon ensemble. Her most recent collection boasts of distinct, functional, chic and trendy pieces. They range from shirt dresses, dhoti jumpsuits, kite dresses, cowl dresses, off shoulder, strapless tops with lace details, apron inspired tops, denim shirt dresses and long black dresses with tassel details. If you preview her collection online you would notice that most of the resort wear is featured in white or black. Again, this is Meiling’s signature as she pairs the simple but effective pieces as blank canvases to the individual character with the individual in mind as the artist. Basically, when you purchase Meiling’s resort wear it becomes your blank canvas which you bring art to life via “painting” your persona and the experiences you create, the activities that you do and the journeys you take with the designer wear.

Dhoti Jump Suit

Photo Credit: Shaista Deen

Swing Dress with Silk Tie

Photo Credit: Joshua Brizan

Off Shoulder Crop Top

Photo Credit: Jordan Lum Hung

If you wish to share your new-found love for the Meiling brand with your bridal party you can browse the collection. Ultimately, you will make your life and theirs easier by selecting appropriate dresses for the bridesmaids. You can even work with the designer on flower girl dresses. Moreover, you can make this option convenient and accessible by listing Meiling on the R.S.V.P or details card as the premier choice for destination wedding wear in Trinidad and Tobago. The flights to Trinidad from the U.S.A are only a few hours and you will reach here in no time at all. Hotels and other accommodations are available in Port of Spain where Meiling is located. They are only a stone’s throw away from her boutique. You can request a taxi driver at your front desk and be on your way to your appointment with Meiling. Thus, you will rescue yourself from the drama and stress of a million phone calls and instant messages from your relatives and invited guests badgering you about what they should wear to your destination wedding.

Denim Dresses

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/meilinginc/

Eyelet Strap Sundress

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/meilinginc/

When the wedding and honeymoon is over and you return to your home you do not have to hide away your resort wear. Your bridesmaids and even your guests will thank you later because they can bask in designer bliss by wearing these pieces in spring, summer, autumn and even winter. The only requirement may be reinventing the outfit again with a personal touch of layering it for the colder seasons and dressing it down for the warmer ones. Neither yourself nor your bridal party/guests would regret the choice of colour as white and black can mix and match with a plethora of accessories. I am also a firm believer of the influence of creative design. Regardless of the season you all choose to wear your Meiling attire you will definitely be moved by donning the outfit. The rationale is straightforward; good design inevitably evokes emotion and makes as much of an impact on the way you feel when you wear it and when you see yourself wearing it.

Cowl Neck Dress with Lace Detail

Photo Credit: http://www.meilinginc.com/meiling-201617/

White Peasant Top with Lace

Photographer: Shaista Deen

The advent of the internet makes your destination wedding dress a few clicks away from being a dream come true. It can literally save you the nightmare of dress shopping, late night foraging for bridal trends and exhaustion from the tears and anxiety of running out of time. Instead place yourself into the safe haven of competence, expertise and professionalism by booking Meiling Esau of Meiling Inc. in Trinidad.

Kite Dress

Photo Credit: Jordan Lum Hung

Tied Neck Caftan Dress in Chiffon and Silk

Photo credit: Jordan Lum Hung

Shirt Collar Caftan in Chiffon and Silk

Photo Credit: Jordan Lum Hung

Cowl Collar Caftan in Chiffon and Silk

Photo Credit: Joshua Brizan

Connect with Meiling today!!!

Website: http://www.meilinginc.com/

Email: meiling@meilinginc.com

Location: #6 Carlos Street in Woodbrook, Port of Spain

Hours: Monday – Friday 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturdays at 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Telephone: 1.868. 627.6975 or 1.868.627.2122

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meilinginc/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/meilinginc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meiling-esau-1491097

Save

Brian Mac Farlane's Cazabon The Art of Living

Posted on February 9, 2017by admin

In 2017 designer Brian Mac Farlane has taken to his mas camp his plight to advocate to the authorities the restoration of the country’s indigenous heritage and architecture. His presentation this year is called Cazabon: The Art of Living. It is his intention through the designs that he can call to action the “powers that be” to do something to preserve the wealth of the nation’s national heritage particularly the architecture from the artist, Jean Michel Cazabon’s era ( late 1800’s and the early 1900’s). His expectations would materialize in the form of haute couture costumes displayed on persons owning roles from that era in a spectacle bound by a unanimous magnitude of architectural inspiration. This presentation would convene several artisans from costume to fashion designers. Brian Mac Farlane even took under his wing top graduates of The University of Trinidad and Tobago: Caribbean Academy for Fashion and Design.

Voyage de la Mode by Claudia Pegus

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

Cazabon’s paintings are colourful and resemble snapshots of the period the artist existed in and its immediate society. The people during that time wore colourful clothing because they were free to do so (post emancipation era). However, the designers took an all white disposition with several shades of white, hues of gold and brown. Since this is art one has to question the artist’s intention and the message he wants to communicate (which one will only know when one asks the creative director because art is subject to multiple interpretation). I am under the impression that these characters are cast in white because they are souls of the people of that time. Cazabon’s art featured stills of life paintings whilst Mac Farlane and his cohort of designers depict this time capsule through creative costume design and movement of haute couture clothed masqueraders.

Monsieur Mille Fleur and Madame Mille Fleur by Brian Mac Farlane

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

The regalia, glitz and glamour of Cazabon’s era via this band were launched at one of the Magnificent Seven buildings late last year. Again highlighting Brian’s fixation with the conservation and restoration of architecture that served its prime during Cazabon’s time. In an interview Mac Farlane was noted for saying that his intention is to use unity to break silence and present splendor, beauty and revelry with a purpose via acknowledging profoundly rich heritage and culture. Designer icons and the local fashion industry’s rising stars occupy the band’s creative cast. Their names include Claudia Pegus, Peter Elias, Dale Angus, Dianne Hunt, Adrian Foster, Heather Jones, Dhisha Moorjani, Fazaad Mohammed, Charu Lochan Dass, Harvey Robertson, Kaleen Sanois and last but not least Brian Mac Farlane.

Le Belle Creole by Peter Elias

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

Aristocratic Aura by Heather Jones

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

The sections include names like The White Hall Affair (designed by Adrian Foster), Apna Desh (designed by Dhisha Moorjani), Citizens for Conservation ( designed by Harvey Robertson), Felicity (designed by Charu Lochan Dass), Gang Gang Sarah and Tom (designed by Dale Angus), Messenger of Change (designed by Kaleen Sanois), Le Belle Creole (designed by Peter Elias), Mademoiselle Boissierre (designed by Dianne Hunt), Madame Boissierre (designed by Dianne Hunt), Ministress of Hope (designed by Dianne Hunt), Madame Mille Fleur ( designed by Brian Mac Farlane), Monsieur Mille Fleur (designed by Brian Mac Farlane), The Gate Keepers (designed by Fazaad Mohammed), Aristocratic Aura (designed by Heather Jones) and Voyage de la Mode (designed by Claudia Pegus).

Madame Boissiere by Dianne Hunt

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

The White Hall Affair designed by Adrian Foster is already sold out. The White Hall was formerly owned by Joseph Leon Agostini. Following his death it was then occupied by Robert Henderson and his family. However an account of the interior design, architecture and atmosphere of social events at the White Hall from the author of “The Great Eight”, Mr. Anthony De Verteuil seemed to inspire designer Adrian Foster. He took reference from this 19^th century Edwardian era. He believes that the spirits of Henderson’s guests remained within the walls of the magnificent building. He believes they merged with the Corsican, Moorish architecture forming silhouettes from French style windows and fretwork trimmings to large coral stone pillars that support the structure. He believes their trapped souls continue to roam the hallways and main ballroom as their haunting presence continues to preserve the rich history of time.

Photo Credit: Adrian Foster

The White Hall Affair by Adrian Foster

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane’s Carnival Mas’ Camp

Apna Desh is designed by Dhisha Moorjani of House of Jaipur. The costumes from Apna Desh- Our Land/Our Country reflect the conservative fashion and cultural design of traditional mas. These costumes feature a full collection of ethnic inspired Indian accessories detailed in silver. The female costumes come in several options. These include Sari or Gharara and top (skirt and top). The Apna Desh costumes are investment pieces as they can be worn again at a non Carnival occasion. Dhisha Moorjani (House of Jaipur) states, “It was Brian’s idea to use this theme and I followed the guidelines for colour scheme; beige and sepia tones. I used lots of cotton. In 1886 Cazabon’s painting of Indo Trinidadians was displayed at The Colonial Exhibit in London (renamed politically by Geofferey Maclean “The East Indian Group and The East Indian Women”). It depicted an Indo Trinidadian family; a mother, a father, a daughter. They are seen standing in their thatched roof house. The men are in their Kurta and Dhoti pants and the women in their flowing saris. The costumes for Cazabon The Art of Living feature options of Sari or Gharara which are sewn and easily arranged especially for anyone who never wore a sari. There are lots of silver pieces as accessories to reflect the heavy adornment of their bodies in jewelry. They did not trust banks during that time and converted their gold coins into jewelry.”

Apna Desh by Dhisha Moorjani (House of Jaipur)

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane’s Mas Camp

Citizens for Conservation is designed by Harvey Robertson. He affirms, “The conceptual stages of design and learning about the work of Citizens for Conservation inspired my design. The group is most known for its recent efforts to keep historical architecture alive. The demolition of the Greyfriars Church on Frederick Street in Port of Spain also inspired my designs. This church was built in the 1800’s during the Cazabon era. The materials for this costume consist of 100% cotton with shades of white and hues of brown.”

Greyfriars Church

Photo Credit: Joshua Lue Chee Kong

Citizens For Conservation by Harvey Robertson

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

Citizens For Conservation by Harvery Robertson

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

Felicity is designed by Charu Lochan Dass for the brand CLD. In her words, “ Felicity is the bringing together a mix of pleasures and stylishness. It depicts both mid 1800’s fashion and the sobering yet intricate Victorian architecture. It exchanges historical extravagance for modern mobility, keeping the traditional trims; gloves and head scarves to bring to life an era so filled with presence and sophistication.”

Felicity by Charu Lochan Dass (CLD)

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

Gang Gang Sarah and Tom is designed by Dayle Angus from Tobago. This costume is detailed using lots of natural materials such as cowrie shells to represent the cotton from the silk cotton tree. The designer had a vision for a rugged, strong look for this costume. She collaborated with Dwayne Trim of Mudern Mud in Tobago to include this neutral colour element in her design aesthetic. Designer Dale Angus says ” The whole idea around Cazabon is his representation of all aspects of society during that time period. It translates to what was happening in Tobago at that time, you would’ve seen a rise in the folklore. Gang Gang Sarah is a folklore that originated between the late 1800’s – early 1900’s. When we talk about architecture of that time period and the use of nature, I approached him ( Brian Mac Farlane ) with Gang Gang Sarah. The main focus was the silk cotton tree. The tree stands today in Tobago and it is seen as a historical treasure. “

Gang Gang Sarah and Tom by Dayle Angus

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

Messenger of Change is designed by Kaleen Sanois. The battymamzelle or dragonfly is used as the symbol for messenger of change. The base of the costume was inspired by this creature. The designer drew inspiration from common details of colonial houses seen in the lace work and the light weight cottons. Despite being a representation from the Cazabon era more flare was added to the look with gems, piping and gold accents. Designer Kaleen Sanois reiterates, ” The Messenger of Change is the mascot of the band. The message is that we need to come together as a people, to be united and to enjoy the country that is our own, and celebrate what we have left of our culture. Anybody can be The Messenger. I believe we’re all artists in some way and should use our art to promote positive change in any way. The Messenger of Change falls into the Cazabon era as a reminder that we are beautiful and unique people just like the battymamzelle.”

Messenger of Change by Kaleen Sanois

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Mas Camp

The Gatekeepers section is designed by Fazad Mohammed. In his words he describes the characters’ portrayal, “I am majestically unyielding and a grand sight to behold. My magnificence lives on through the traditions that now unfold. I stand guard at the treasure’s place centuries apart, defy me and to this day you shall know my wrath. We defy the ravages time and stand among the chosen few, we are the gatekeepers of the Estates and our presence beckons to you!” – Fazad Mohammed 2016.

The Gate Keepers by Fazad Mohammed

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

He goes on to say that he was always fascinated by the grand opulence of our heritage sites and their presence, which gives people a peek into a period in history that shaped their existence today. The Cazabon era set the tone for inspiring their creations for 2017 carnival and the design team saw it fit to present a collection that reflected the periods fashion and trends as well as stimulate discussion on the preservation of local heritage monuments. Through the portrayal of “The Gatekeepers” Fazad presents a look at the Grand iron and metal designs that adorn the magnificent structures. He also wanted to pay tribute to the men and women that contributed to its preservation. To this day he feels there is a sense of ethereal presence within these structures that stimulates one’s curiosity about life on the other side of the grand gates.

The Gate Keepers by Fazad Mohammed

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

He believes that The Gatekeepers therefore, are those story tellers that brings to life this period in today’s modern world. Furthermore, he asserts that he would like to take the opportunity to celebrate the grand architectural magnificence and craftsmanship of the wrought iron artists. He feels that their creations adorn and protect our heritage estate houses and is a source of great inspiration to our current masterminds and architects. In this collection Fazad confirms that he maintained a strong connection with the actual fine fashionable fabrics of the period, ie cotton, silk, satin, lace and chiffon. He states that the accessories mirrored the opulence of the fine jewelry crafted from pearls, gold and other gems. Fazad feels that the greatest significance is the wire work done by our local craftsmen to tell the story of the grand wrought iron artisans of the period.

The Gate Keepers by Fazad Mohammed

Photo Credit: Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp

If you would like to know more about the presentation of Cazabon: The Art of Living then please review the information below.

Brian Mac Farlane’s mas camp is located at #49 Rosalino Street Woodbrook.

Telephone Contact: (868) 625-8931

Email Address: macfarlanecarnival@gmail.com

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/macfarlanecarnival/

Website: www.macfarlanemas.com

The Mac Farlane Carnival Mas Camp is one of the featured stops on my Trinidad Carnival Fashion Tour this Saturday 11th February 2017. If you would like to take the tour then please contact me at letsgotrinidadandtobago@gmail.com

Save

5 lessons from Heather Jones International

Posted on February 7, 2017by admin

“Heather is a quintessential artist of this millennium representing the transitional era of self-assertion and individuality. Her designs are motivated to make women feel good about themselves, to empower and inspire.

The endless limitation of her work is like a powerful river with countless branches, which develops into outrageous waterfalls. Her work brings a divine blessing to each individual that comes into contact with her designs.

They can imagine the warm tropical nights, cool sensuous days, deliciously soothing waters, the earthly rich flora of orchids and hibiscuses; all woven into the magical loom that Heather creates.”

Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

I first met Heather at the first Tobago Fashion Coda (although I do not think she remembers me or that anybody remembers much ha ha except that it was an awesome night!). The committee had just invited persons to indulge in the all inclusive refreshments done by the Tobago Hotel School. There we saw Heather and approached her to say “hello” and extend our congratulations to her on her collection. She was absolutely “down to earth” and so warm in her response to us. This is something I will forever cherish. I also take forward with me in life a few lessons from that moment. The first lesson is no matter who you are and whichever fields you assert yourself in always remember to treat others as you would like to be treated. The second lesson is people will remember you for character. Hence with that being said I am jumping into my Heather Jones Designs International review.

Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

I grew up hearing and seeing Heather Jones Designs broadcasted on television or glorifying the newspapers (yes I used to read the paper before the advent of online news). My chats with Leasel Rovedas and Omzadd Khan would further reveal that Heather even designed and supplied the Caribbean Airlines uniforms (no wonder our flight attendants look so beautiful). They would further confirm that although people are more conscious of the fashion industry today in Trinidad entrepreneurship still requires a lot of work before results are realized. In one of our discussions we realized that Heather really has accomplished a lot over the decades; working at her craft. It is safe to say her success did not happen overnight and this remains the third lesson I wish to note for my own life.

Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

Heather Jones achieved the “International Pret a Porter Style Award” for Fashion Week of the Americas in 2002. She went on to win “Woman of Great Esteem Award” from New York’s Woman of Great Esteem Foundation 2005. In 2008 she received the award for “Best Trinidad and Tobago Designer.” Then she achieved “The Chaconia Gold Medal,” a national award from her home country Trinidad and Tobago for her contribution in fashion in 2009. Despite receiving awards it seemed Heather understood that this alone does not translate to “Ah Reach”. This is my fourth lesson from Heather Jones. There are no limits for success only room for improvement and these accolades were only material confessions that Heather Jones was on to something and she needed to listen to her intuition and figure out what’s next for her brand and how can she do this better.

Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

I must commend Heather’s focus on her art, her strategic planning and execution as Heather Jones Designs catapulted further to become international. Her collections were already being sold in about thirty stores in the U.S.A and were now being showcased on the global map from Asia, Europe to the Mediterranean markets. The highlights of these shows included attending “Me My Mode Show” in Paris in 2012, “Labo Ethnik Fashion and Lifestyle” in Paris in 2014, “The Gallery in Berlin” in 2013, “Japan International Fashion Week”, “Miami Fashion Week”, “Unconventional Wedding District” in Milan and “Mediterranean Fashion Dreams” in Italy. Currently her collections are being sold in Japan and Italy among other destinations. Undoubtedly, Heather Jones has put Trinidad and Tobago on the world map.

Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

Heather Jones designs Prêt a Porter, Luxury, Resort, Bridal even Monday Wear and Fete Wear. The art of hand painting which she acquired was passed down to her from generation to generation. She aces garment construction and actually learned this from an early age. However, the striking thread that ties Heather Jones Designs International from where she started to the direction she is headed would be the marriage of traditional with contemporary in such a way that her creations are timeless and transitional. Heather Jones is relevant to her target market across many oceans in varying cultures in different age groups. She is cognizant of the trends, styles, colours, designs and fuses that with the uniqueness of her perspective of the Caribbean rather the way she views it. She finishes her designs with authenticity from her signature which is hand painting. Anyone can spot a purchase from Heather Jones Designs International immediately because her aesthetic is so identifiable. Similarly anyone wearing merchandise from Heather Jones Designs International will be easily spotted because her work stands out anywhere and everywhere. Heather Jones Designs International is an iconic brand that captures the essence of Trinidad and Tobago. Our culture is a melting pot of influences. We are a “fusion people”. The designer understands this in fact she is a product of this environment. She is alert to all of this therefore she channels this into her designs and it is inevitable that the finished product encapsulates fusion fashion.

Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

Notwithstanding, this nation is very fortunate to have someone so valuable, alive and approachable for consultation on the way forward for Trinidad and Tobago’s creative industries. At first glance the average person browsing her collections or viewing a random piece in a magazine or newspaper may not think that this woman, this creative entrepreneur, this iconic designer is so stellar or that she packs all these titles and accolades behind her name. Here is where I take my fifth lesson from Heather Jones. The lesson here is not to build to display but build to “disappear” or “work behind the scenes” to accomplish your life purpose. This is such a paradox as the fashion world is one that requires creating illusions, fostering imagination and brand communication through visual appeal. However, building to disappear and fulfill your purpose rather than building to “show off” can be done and Heather is a prime example of that. She has been building her empire in the fashion world neither for ostentatious, selfish purposes nor for expectations of recognition and status quo but for her life’s purpose. She exercises her will to realize her purpose in life by making the dreams of other women come true when she designs her collections. Her intentions are pure. She makes women feel better, feel empowered and feel inspired to go out into the world and complete their purpose too.

Photo Credit: Heather Jones International

You can visit her website to preview her collection if you wish to stand out in local designer wear this Trinidad Carnival 2017 at www.heatherjonesinternational.net or visit her facebook page at www.facebook.com/heatherjonesinternational or call her up at 1.868.622.9075 or 1.868.467.9756

Heather Jones Designs International will be on my Carnival Fashion Tour this Saturday 11^th February 2017. Booking for the tour is available and you can send an email to letsgotrinidadandtobago@gmail.com to register.

Save

The Lost Tribe's Riddim

Posted on February 6, 2017by admin

Before I proceed with my review for The Lost Tribe Carnival 2017 I would like to set the record straight on my thoughts about our Carnival fashion. I want to reiterate that Trinidad Carnival remains a haven for “creatives”. This means there is always room for more design aesthetics, creativity, new directions and new concepts that resonate with or even challenge the traditional ideals. Of course our Carnival fashion is embedded in our history and we owe all of this that we have today; our creativity, our skills, our talents to the foundation that gave the present day mas’ men and mas’ women their jump off into the Carnival scene. There are so many niches in the present and there is still room for more. As “creatives” we are entitled to critically examine art forms but we must not judge and bash each other for being too traditional or too modern because this is Trinidad Carnival. All the different facets of Trinidad Carnival encompass our Carnival fashion landscape and neither is wrong for bringing to fruition their contribution to Trinidad Carnival fashion.

Photo Credit: The Lost Tribe

The Lost Tribe Carnival had its debut in 2016. The Creative Director Valmiki Maharaj and Co – Creative Director Anya Ayoung Chee sought to expound upon a mas that was missing from the Carnival. They felt it was time to deliver the people from the lack of theatre, drama and storytelling on the Carnival road. They intended to bridge a gap between traditional mas and modern day. The Lost Tribe Carnival brands itself as an alternative concept band.This year their presentation awakens the creatives in dance, music and theatre yet again as they bring forth “The Riddim.” The cast of designers include Shawn Dhanraj, JP Richardson, Keegan Simon, Nadya Shah, Shari Cumberbatch, Simon White, Jeri-Lee Alexander & Lauren Baccus and Aaron Schneider. “The Riddim” in my words would describe the sound of Trinidad Carnival.

The Areito Section

Areito is a traditional, Amerindian based prayer ceremony. The female costume includes head piece, bra and bottom piece, full-body chain and backpack. The male costume includes head piece, chest piece, sharwani pants and backpack.

Photo Credit: Laura FerreiraPhoto Credit : Laura Ferreira

The Bamboo Section

This section was inspired by the sound of the tamboo bamboo musical instrument and was designed to produce the sound off the moving Bamboo Cathedral. The female costume features head piece, bra and bottom piece, cropped top, hip chain, leggings and backpack. The male costume includes head piece, sleeves, long pants, satchel and backpack.

Photo Credit: Laura FerreiraPhoto Credit: Laura Ferreira

The Cutta Section

The Cutta Drum from The Laventille Rhythm Section heavily influences this section of The Riddim. The female costume features hoodie, bra and bottom piece, leggings, bracelets, foot pieces and necklace. The male costume includes turban, dhoti pants, Indian Drum and backpack

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

The Djun Section

This costume is described as being an inspiration from the “Djun – Djun” drum from the Laventille Rhythm Section. This drum also fits into the category of traditional war drums. The female costume consists of headpiece, whole piece, cuffs, neck piece, necklace, cape and backpack. The male costume consists of headpiece, arm pieces, pants, neck piece, backpack and Djembe Drum.

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

The Dudup Section

This section bears influence from the Dudup pan or as The Lost Tribe considers it; the forefather of the steel pan. The female costume includes head piece, monokini, bangles, neck piece, cape and standards. The male costume includes neck piece, belt, pants, backpack and standard.

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

The Iron Section

This theme has connotations of the first strike, heartbeat and soul of The Laventille Rhythm Section. The female costume entails tiara, bra, monokini, cuffs, collar and backpack. The male costume includes head band, collar, khaki pants, leg pieces and backpack.

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

The Jab Section

The Lost Tribe Carnival defines The Jab as a spirit. They believe The Jab is a profoundly dark and inspiring story rooted at the core of local culture. The Jab costume is inspired by the sounds, visualization and movement of the J’Ouvert experience. The female costumes highlight headphone head piece, bra, monokini, Obi belt, bangles and backpack. The male costume showcases headphone head piece, neck piece, joggers, Crix tin, whistle and backpack.

Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira Photo Credit: Laura Ferreira

After previewing these costumes I understand and appreciate The Lost Tribe Carnival’s contribution for 2017. I am fully aware that the creative process was carefully planned and executed. The costumes are synchronized with their “behind the scenes” meanings and relate to the design production. This is a revolution in Trinidad Carnival fashion and it is coherent. Their efforts to introduce theatre, drama, and storytelling are on point. There is zero mismatching of concept to creation. The cast of designers under the stewardship of the creative directors has managed to capture their stories in the essence of the costume design. However, this does not stop here as this group used the modern day facilities and technologies to make their impact and etch their brand identity in the hearts and minds of all who are interested in being part of their tribe. You can contact The Lost Tribe Carnival at 2017.losttribecarnival.com or you can take my Carnival Fashion tour which will be offered this Saturday 11^th February 2017 to learn more.

In closing my words of advice for the creative community and the spectators of Carnival Fashion are, “Embrace who we are and the bigger picture of what we are and the direction for Trinidad Carnival rather the greater vision for Trinidad Carnival, respect each others work, focus on the task at hand, at “getting it done” and to consistently and continuously work together because united we will stand and divided we will fall.”

‘An Evening Of Healing With Music – Vol. I’ Offers A Holiday Gift Of Musical Healing For The Soul

Posted on December 21, 2016by admin

‘An Evening Of Healing With Music – Vol. I’ Offers A Holiday Gift Of Musical Healing For The Soul

Estuary PR Launches A Cultural Studies Initiative To Nurture Care In Communities

Musician, cultural practitioner and educator, Z4L4, uses sacred music and performance art to move his audiences to change at a recent commemorative performance for the 2016 World AIDS Day, Performance Art Towards a Model of Village Care, at the UWI St. Augustine campus’ School of Education Auditorium. Photo courtesy TriniView.com.

December 21, 2016 – St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago… On Wednesday December 28, 2016, lovers of music and the arts are invited to experience stirring classical, jazz, soul, blues and Caribbean spirituals at An Evening of Healing with Music – Vol. I. This fundraising concert aims to foster well-being through music that nurtures the soul while shining a light on issues related to the care of Trinidad and Tobago’s aging and ailing population. An eclectic cast including Ken ‘Professor’ Philmore, Z4L4, John Michael Thomas & Friends, Tsahai Koo and Imani Miller-Sorzano will entertain from 6:30 p.m. at the Our Lady of Fatima Church Hall, Bushe Street, Curepe.

Cultural Studies lecturer, Z4L4, engages his audience as he discusses an alternative approach to caring for HIV/AIDS patients, the Tobago Yard model, with moderator, award-winning Jamaican poet and author, Lesley-Ann Wanliss, during the performance art event, Performance Art Towards a Model of Village Care. Photo courtesy TriniView.com.

Following recent experiences with caring for a loved one, estuary PR’s Managing Director, Liza Miller, identified an urgent need to create a platform for promoting care, empathy, compassion, kindness and love. “We often take the simple things in life for granted such as our wondrous ability to breathe. Everyday thousands of people suffer from lifelong ailments that compromise their ability to do basic daily functions as well as their quality of life. There are so many broken members of our society. How are we taking care of these neglected people who line our hospital emergency wards as they watch life’s clock tick?” questioned Miller.

Internationally renowned steel pan and jazz icon, Ken ‘Professor’ Philmore, ignites his audience as he delivers a passionate performance. Photo courtesy Ken ‘Professor’ Philmore.

This fundraising series was conceptualised as a quarterly production, which will raise funds for various beneficiaries who face the trials of sustaining spiritual, emotional and physical well-being in the face of managing medical challenges. The inaugural concert, An Evening of Healing with Music – Vol. I, brings a diverse cast of performers in terms of age and talent together to address the indiscriminate nature of aging and illness. In reflecting on the concept, Miller shared, “Aging and illness care not for one’s age, race, class, profession nor nationality. These are experiences that impact not only those aging and ill but also their loved ones and caregivers. Who is caring for the caregivers? What little can each of us do to nurture caring?”

Charismatic vocalist, John Michael Thomas, will lend his talents to deliver a powerful performance at An Evening of Healing with Music – Vol I. Photo courtesy John Michael Thomas.

An Evening of Healing with Music – Vol. I offers music to soothe the soul in benefit of Martica Thomas’ medical care. Tickets cost $100.00 and are available at the Our Lady of Fatima Roman Catholic (RC) Church office and from estuary PR. For more information, join the Facebook (FB) event at bit.ly/HealWithMusic or connect on FB, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat @estuaryPR and @Z4L4Music or email liza@estuaryPR.com or call (868) 367-5295.

WHAT: An Evening of Healing with Music – Vol. I

WHO: estuary PR in collaboration with Z4L4

WHEN: Wednesday December 28, 2016 at 6:30 p.m.

WHERE: Our Lady of Fatima RC Church Hall, Bushe Street, Curepe

TICKETS: $100.00

Our Lady of Fatima RC Church office – (868) 662-5203

estuary PR – (868) 367-5295

-30-

For media inquiries, please contact:

Liza Miller, Managing Director

estuary PR Limited

p: (868) 367-5295

e: liza@estuaryPR.com

www.estuaryPR.com

Save