GUYANA is seemingly on the verge of an explosive expansion in its fashion arena with newly established local designers like Marcie De Santos.

Marcie aims to dominate Guyana’s fashion arena to the highest level with her designs that feature fabric painting on cotton and linen. This accomplished designer credits her entry into the world of fashion to her passion for a unique look, which drove her to design clothing for herself. She soon realised that fashion designing was her second nature, something that she was born to do.

The uniqueness of the colour blends that she uses is a defining characteristic of her work. She thrives on creating new and exquisite looks that captivate her clients.

Marcie describes her target as women of all shapes and sizes who desire to exude femininity in unique, exuberant, eye-catching, timeless and versatile styles.

As a Seventh-Day Adventist Christian, she acknowledges that her gift of creativity is a blessing from God, who is the greatest Creator of all, and who has further blessed her with a family (husband, parents and mother-in-law) who provide unwavering support.

The Guyana Fashion Week (GFW) 2008 was her debut runway show, where she was adjudged the ‘Most Promising Designer’. Marcie recognises that the exposure and experience that she has gleaned from participation in several ‘international fashion weeks’ across the region – in Tobago, Barbados, Antigua, Dominican Republic, and further afield to the New York Fashion Week, have played a significant part in her evolution as a designer.

It is her opinion that such exposure is necessary, since the interaction with other designers at that level creates awareness of international standards as well as motivation to succeed. Her conviction is that a fashion designer should never stop learning and growing, and should always be open to trying fresh and innovative ideas, in order to remain relevant.

Marcie has also showcased her designs at the Inner Wheel Club of Georgetown’s annual Tea Party, held recently, when she received splendid reviews on her remarkable pieces.

She has recently launched her boutique, called ‘The Fashion Atelier,’ located at 159 Waterloo Street, Cummingsburg, Georgetown (obliquely opposite Public Service Ministry), where off-the-rack and custom-made clothing are available.

Women can now pamper themselves and make a statement with designs by Marcie. The Fashion Atelier is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 09hrs to 17hrs; and on Fridays from 9hrs to 16hrs.

Marcie invites all women who want to be pampered and make a statement to visit The Fashion Atelier, or to call 685-4545 for appointments, or visit her Facebook page Facebook.Com/marcieadesantos, to view and order her designs. Emails can be sent to Marcie.fashion@gmail.com or thefashionatelier159@gmail.com.

By Shivanie Sugrim

Marcie De Santos pieces displayed at the Inner Wheel Club of Georgetown’s annual Tea Party last Sunday.

(photos by Delano Williams)