Gavin Douglas – Fashion Designer

What are your earliest memories of Kingston?

My family is from Jamaica, so I’ve been coming here since I was about seven. My earliest memory would be spending time with family in the city.

What do you miss when you are not in Kingston?

There are lots of things I miss… the general atmosphere, the people and the weather.

What has been your favourite CFW memory to date?

My favourite one was the first CFW I did in 2005, it was the first time I did a catwalk show. It was definitely a challenge financially, which is why I remember it.

And what’s the best thing about being a designer?

Seeing a client wearing one of my pieces and being able to appreciate that moment.

What are your favourite home comforts?

I just like chilling, listening to music and sketching.

What would you do if you were mayor (of Kingston) for a day?

Probably have a huge street party with an open bar and free food for everyone.

Share with us the title of the last book you read.

Couture Designers

What’s your middle name?

Tobias

And the last bit of music that stirred your soul?

Vybz Kartel!

What was your last bit of retail therapy?

Just before I came I bought a few bits and pieces… the last thing I bought was a limited edition Adidas watch.

Which cologne are you

currently splashing?

Gucci

What is your preferred beverage?

Appleton Special.

What was your most memorable meal in Kingston?

Codfish Run-Down Pasta at

The Guilt Trip

What are your current projects?

Currently I’m working on my Spring/Summer Collection; that will be the first thing I do when I return to London, and of course expanding my offerings at Harrods. And participating in the CFW workshops.

What upsets you?

Discrimination.

Name the last three places visited on holidays.

New York, Jamaica and Paris.

Share some places in your black book.

Fiction and The Guilt Trip in Kingston and One of a Kind, a vintage store I always go to in London.

What’s your advice to a first-time visitor to Kingston?

There’s a lot to do here, definitely plan a to-do list before you get here and have a lot of fun.

Share with us why CFW is important for us here in the region.

It gives Caribbean designers the opportunity to showcase their work and it offers a superb platform for young designers to get noticed.

What’s your philosophy?

Take life one day at a time.