–The face behind ‘Sandbox Designs’

AT THE launch of Guyana Fashion Week back in May, fashion enthusiasts were treated to a unique twist on the industry when 25-year-old Ulynie DeNobrega debuted her Sandbox Designs which catered specifically to children.
The line, which was filled with ready-to-wear pieces of vibrant colours and prints, was met with much public approval as Ulynie had tapped into a niche market that had yet to be explored.

As the committed wife and mother of two explained, “I always loved sewing, so now that I have two kids, I started making clothes for them. Then I started sewing for myself.”
Now, on the advice of a few friends, she’s decided to make the line official. Ulynie stated that the response to her work after showing it at Guyana Fashion Week was overwhelming, and that she is now encouraged to expand her line to include adult clothing as well.
She has since designed some items for her friends, and with a few pending orders from other customers, Ulynie believes that her ability to make ready-to-wear clothing will do well for her budding business.

‘I don’t make anything extravagant; I make skirts, jumpers, maxi dresses and so on. But next year, I want to be able to have my stuff available on a larger scale’ — Ulynie DeNobrega

“I don’t make anything extravagant; I make skirts, jumpers, maxi dresses and so on. But next year, I want to be able to have my stuff available on a larger scale, ” she said.

But the best part of all is being able to bond with her daughters, as many of the outfits she makes for her family include matching ensembles for herself and her girls.
With this in mind, Ulynie also hopes to have a “Mommy and me” extension within her clothing line for mothers and children.

Now, as she embarks on expanding her business, howver, she admits that there is much to learn, most of all being able to recognise her own talent. “At first I kept my work to myself, because I think people who are artistic are scared of people judging them, and so we try to be perfect.
“So my fear was that people wouldn’t like what I do, and I am still learning to deal with that. But I look forward to learning and developing my talent in time to come,” she said.