Jessica Ogden — Packing for Christmas in Jamaica
Jamaican-born fashion designer Jessica Ogden was recently featured in The New York Times sharing her must-haves for her annual trek back home for the festive season. Despite living — and designing for APC’s Madras collection — in Paris, Ogden still finds it necessary to visit The Rock for inspiration to create fab new designs. “People (in Jamaica) are into style in a big way…there’s a language on the street which is really interesting to watch,” she explained. SO concurs and looks forward to seeing Jessica on the social scene. Naturally her doting mum Annabella, stepdad Peter and brother Sebastian are eager too.
Ogden’s Picks:
o Ralph Lauren Denim Buffalo Western shirt: “A worn-out denim shirt is my can’t-live-without piece on any holiday, to throw on either at the beach or with a skirt at sunset.”
o K Jacques sandals: “Never out of style from the 1960s till now. Order your style in any leather.”
o Clinique 45 SPF sunblock stick: “can be carried in your smallest bag for a sunscreen touch-up.”
o Chapellerie Alfred Panama hat: “Just wear it and you are already on holiday.”
o Sennelier watercolour paper and travel watercolour set: “I like to draw while away, and this has all the basic colours; also good for afternoon playtime with god-daughters, nieces and nephews.”
o Batik top: “A vest from my mum, is a pure good-luck travel charm. For your own, I would say DIY (do it yourself)! All that is needed is a white vest, a batik kit from a craft shop, and dye.”
o Vintage cloth print umbrella: “The umbrella makes your spot on the beach the most Lartigue-esque, which can’t be bad. I recommend Alfies Antique Market, Church Street, London, or any true vintage shop specialising in Victorian-era parasols.
o Madras swimsuit and quilted bag: “Finding a swimsuit that has a nice fit and slightly vintage shape is not an easy task, so I designed one myself and have been happy on the beach ever since. A huge hold-all bag is good for picnics, too, as the quilting is a protective layer… it seems to grow the more you squeeze in.”