David Newell

Sartorial designer for Newell Sartorial and newly formed Jamaican company Island Bespoke

Style Observer (SO): Describe a typical day in the life of David Newell?

David Newell (DN): No two days are ever quite the same — but they all start with an aromatic cup of Blue Mountain coffee and a quick review of design requests or client updates.

Mornings are for flow — sketching, refining patterns, reviewing swatches. By midday, I’m in motion — either in fittings, overseeing production, or coordinating logistics between Jamaica, the UK, Far East and Europe.

Evenings are sacred, that’s when I dream big — researching tech for smart design, journalling ideas, or sometimes just reflecting with some dub or soul music in the background.

There’s rarely such a thing as a typical day — but every day is deeply creative.

SO: How fulfilling has your career been?

DN: Beyond fulfilling — it’s been transformative. Every stitch, every suit, every uniform carries a story.

I’ve had the honour of dressing prime ministers and everyday heroes. But the most fulfilling part is seeing someone walk a little taller because they feel seen and powerful in what they’re wearing. That’s magic!

SO: The world is evolving and you are embracing it by incorporating tech in the way you design. Do share more!

DN: Tech’s been a game-changer for me. I’m using digital tools to prototype designs, streamline fittings, and even create pieces based on digital measurements.

I once designed a suit for Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness, based entirely on video footage — no fittings, no measurements, just tech and a sharp eye!

It’s all about working smarter while keeping the craftsmanship front and centre.

SO: What are the challenges (if any) of designing for haute establishments?

DN: It’s like designing for an exclusive symphony — every note must be intentional. Clients in these circles are accustomed to luxury and legacy, so expectations are sky-high.

The challenge is balancing tradition with innovation — creating a garment that respects the institution’s history while still turning heads. Oh, and discretion is everything.

SO: What’s next for David Newell?

DN: I’m doubling down on Kingston. I see the city not just as a location, but a global creative capital in the making.

I’m setting up a hybrid studio and production space there with the help of talented Troy Oraine of Tribe Nine Studios — a hub where culture, craftsmanship and technology collide.

I want to empower local talent while exporting world-class Jamaican design.

SO: Giving back is as important to you as creating. Why?

DN: Because I didn’t get here alone. There were people who believed in me, mentored me, gave me opportunities.

Giving back is how I honour that and how I help open doors for others. Whether it’s through mentorship, training, or supporting local initiatives, it’s part of the work.

SO: You have recently become donor #70 for the Creative District. How has that impacted you?

DN: It reminded me that change begins with commitment. Becoming donor #70 felt symbolic — like being part of a creative renaissance.

I’ve pledged more than money — I’ve pledged my voice, my time, and my networks to see this vision thrive.

The Creative District is about giving space for future icons to emerge.

SO: What is your vision for downtown Kingston?

DN: A creative hub — vibrant, electric, full of soul. I see fashion studios, art galleries, tech labs, and street food stalls all coexisting.

A place where the world can experience Jamaican brilliance, not just as a vibe, but as a powerful economic and cultural force.

SO: You are living in the UK but actively seeking to create manufacturing opportunities in Jamaica. Why? And what challenges have you experienced?

DN:
Because Jamaica is home — and I believe it should benefit from everything I’ve learned working internationally. The creative talent is undeniable, but building the kind of infrastructure needed to support consistent, high-quality production takes time, investment, and collaboration.

The journey comes with its challenges — sourcing the right machinery, bridging training gaps, and navigating the practicalities of setting up operations.

I’ve never been one to shy away from the work. For me, it’s about rolling up my sleeves and getting it done. I’ve always believed in “build local, sell global”. Jamaica has something special to offer the world — and I want to be part of that process.

SO: You are wearing your signature Jamaican Sartorial Sport Suit. How did this come about?

DN: I wanted to create something that allowed Jamaicans — at home and abroad — to wear their pride with elegance.

The Jamaican Sartorial Sport Suit was born out of a desire to offer something elevated, timeless, and beautifully made, that tells the world exactly where you’re from without saying a word.

It came from blending two things I hold dear the sharp, refined tailoring of the Windrush generation and Jamaica’s unstoppable sporting spirit.

The cut is pure sartorial heritage: Clean lines, soft structured shoulders, and timeless elegance. But the fabric… That’s where the innovation comes in — high-performance materials designed for movement, durability, and modern life.

I wanted to create a suit that doesn’t just look powerful — it feels powerful. Something that carries history with pride while embracing the future with style.

SO: Uniforms aside, which global celebrities have you dressed?

DN:
Let’s just say a few red carpet, private premieres, and diplomatic dinners have featured my work.

I’m discreet, but yes, there are Grammy winners, actors ‘ah hum’! Jamie Foxx, and fashion-forward leaders who’ve worn my designs with pride.

SO: Who else would you like to see wearing Island Bespoke?

DN: There are so many icons — past and present — who embody the spirit, strength, and style that Island Bespoke stands for.

Alive? I’d love to dress Kamina Johnson Smith and Lisa Hanna — two women who move with purpose and grace.

Patra and Grace Jones, two legends, and of course, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce — she’s elegance and fire all in one. Their boldness is what Island Bespoke is all about.

For the gents — Denzel Washington, Barack Obama and Usain Bolt.

If I could go back in time? I’d love to create for Nanny of the Maroons — something regal and warrior-worthy. Marcus Garvey and Frederick Douglass, who redefined leadership and presence, and Muhammad Ali because he didn’t just dress well, he carried himself like a king.

Each one of them, in their own way, has shaped the world — and that’s who Island Designs is for. People who lead, who inspire, and who never forget where they come from.

SO: What is David doing when not creating bespoke suits and accessories?

DN: You’ll probably find me perfecting my golf swing, catching up on Formula One, or tucked away in the mountains — completely off-the-grid, far from the hustle, sipping on some Appleton Estate 15-year-old rum neat (21-year-old when I can get my hands on it!).

I love those quiet moments when I can just breathe and recharge. But honestly, the calling to create never stays quiet for long. Eventually, the ideas get too loud, and I find myself right back in the studio.

SO: Which designers have influenced you?

DN: Ozwald Boateng really opened my eyes to what’s possible when tailoring meets identity — he showed me that a suit could carry culture, confidence, and charisma all at once. Alexander McQueen made fashion emotional. Every piece felt like a story, sometimes even a scream.

Yohji Yamamoto taught me the beauty of rebellion — how breaking the rules can become its own elegant language. And Andrew Ramroop, without a doubt, for his sheer mastery of tailoring. His precision, discipline, and deep understanding of craftsmanship continue to inspire me to push the standard higher.

Each one of them reminds me that design isn’t just about clothing — it’s about storytelling, legacy, and presence.

SO: Share with us the last book read.

DN: The Art of War by Sun Tzu. It’s one of those books you revisit at different stages of life and discover something new each time.

For me, it’s not just about strategy — it’s about discipline, awareness, and understanding when to move with force and when to move with grace. Lessons like that find their way into everything I do, from design to business to how I navigate the world.

SO: It’s Friday night and you’re ready to add party vibes to the atelier. What are you drinking? What’s the DJ playing? What are you eating?

DN: Wray & Nephew rum with ginger and a squeeze of lime — just the right kick to ease into the evening. The DJ’s spinning a mix of Chronixx, Burna Boy, and classic Buju and Beenie, with a little UK Garage in the mix — especially tracks by my old studio stablemate, Wookie.

On the menu? Salt fish fritters, jerk chicken sliders, and plantain chips with a spicy tamarind dip. It’s laid-back but full of flavour, just like the vibe in the atelier when the week winds down and the speakers come alive.

SO: What are your favourite home comforts?

DN: A pot of brown stew chicken bubbling on the stove. Crisp white sheets. Old-school reggae playing low in the background, a cigar and Appleton Estate 21-year-old enjoyed neat.

Honestly, just knowing my people are close by is all the comfort I need!

SO: What do you miss about Jamaica when you are not on the island?

DN: The warmth — literally and figuratively. The sound of patois in the street. The way everyone greets you like family… ‘Yes, mi general!’ Jamaica has a rhythm and energy you can’t replicate anywhere else… don’t get me started on the food!!!

SO: Finally, what’s your personal philosophy?

DN: Create with purpose, lead with heart, and always stay grounded to your roots — no matter how high you climb.

Appleton Estate 15-year old rum (Naphtali Junior)

Sartorial designer David Newell (right) is pleased with the fit of mixologist Sheldon Spencer’s utility waistcoat (Naphtali Junior)

Island Bespoke is the 70th First 100 Partner. Founder David Newell donated $1,000,000 in cash. Kingston Creative Executive Director Andrea Dempster Chung shared in the moment. (Llewyntphoto)