AW Fashion: Lubi’s Island Splash
Fashion designer Lubica is back in Jamaica. But not for good. FYI: she’s been away for an entire year in Slovakia, her country of birth, albeit where she has not lived for 23 years. “I went back because of family business. We are in expansion mode and my help was needed. My family owns the biggest store of its kind in Slovakia. We sell fabrics/trimmings/art and theatre supplies/professional make-up and costumes and supply all the designers, artists, TV stations and theatres across Slovakia and Czech Republic,” she explained.
She also used the opportunity to visit several manufacturers of swimwear in Europe as she too is in expansion mode. “Lots of my swimsuit designs are quite intricate, so choosing the right manufacturer is crucial,” she noted. It’s no idle boast!
So why is she back? All Woman Fashion (AWF) has the beans. “I am back because I have missed Jamaica immensely. Jamaica is very special to me. I feel at home here. I draw the most inspiration from Jamaica and I can’t stay away from here for too long,” She’s not come empty-handed! “I am back only for a few weeks,” the designer disclosed, “but I have brought my new swimwear collection, called Island. Plus, doing private fittings with customers.”
Technology has kept her in touch with her devoted clientele and them with her. “I have such wonderful and loyal customers. Even though I took a little break from designing to focus on the family business, my customers have stayed in touch and are excited about the new collection. In this age of social media and easy shipping, distance doesn’t mean a thing. I am very grateful to continuously receive the love and support from so many of my customers.”
New collection and clients aside, Lubica has been pleasantly surprised with “all the new developments and how much has changed in my absence. From the new Ministry of Foreign Affairs and GraceKennedy buildings downtown to the expansion in Barbican and several new restaurants that have opened up. I see lots of new activity and it’s all very exciting.” Solid friends have also been missed but not as much as ackee and salt fish and oxtail and butter beans.
AWF has the exclusive reveal.
Swimsuits: www.lubica.com
Available at Kerry manwomanhome, 18 South Ave. 929-2096
