For the last few years, fashion has taken a back seat. I am celebrating 25 years in fashion. Maybe it is that factor, along with other things contributing to my recent enthusiasm. In the last six years, I have been more focused on my personal development courses and writing books. I believe when God charts our course, things happen in his time. I made many attempts to conceptualise my next collection, but nothing came until last year in a dream. It was clear as crystal the theme for that collection and event the colour board. My new collection is one of the things in my vision, and it helps to shape the concept for my collection for the 25th Anniversary. I was further inspired this weekend at UNCAPPED by the audience’s response to the live mannequins of my masterpieces.

The models were Liz Devonish, Affia Gittens, Fay Harris, Jelena Da Silva and Nikita, who was the daring model on the pedestal. One of the most memorable moments was walking back to my booth and looking back at Nikita mounted on the pedestal and the sunset in the background. Another priceless moment! The furniture and fashion display were a hit and people were in awe of what they were experiencing. Many thought they were actually mannequins and were going up close to verify. It brought back fond memories of when I did this in the lobby of Pegasus, seawall, Guyana Fashion week and in other Caribbean countries. The positive feedback of seeing my collection visible again reignited something in me. Also seeing the fusion of the ‘I AM Collection’ and my clothing line triggered some very deep. They have a few things in common, and versatility is one of them.

They can also be rented or bought. The picnic table can be converted into a bar, and a wooden plant stand into a picnic table. Most of the pieces can be indoors and outdoors and have more than one purpose and are customisd to your taste. Your style of life will meet your way of life. One of the things I encourage my clients to do is to include a few versatile outfits in their wardrobe. The yellow outfit can be worn to a cocktail party, the beach or a casual afternoon with friends. Last week I wore that same outfit to celebrate Eid with my Muslim friends and received a lot of compliments. A few years ago, I attended an event at the Essence Festival in New Orleans and made a quick change in the washroom and people thought it was a new outfit. It was the same in a different style.

We have many upcoming events discussing wardrobe management and many fashion-related topics like how to be red carpet ready or to manipulate the camera. Confidence is a big part of creating a fashion statement, and many people find it difficult. Many of you may not know that I struggled with confidence and had to work on myself. That is why I am passionate about the virtual and in-person Confidence Becomes You programme which starts on May 10. This course has transformed many lives and yours can be next. Feel free to call me or WhatsApp (684-8129) if you are interested in anything I have mentioned. We have one life and let us be bold and live in style while we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.