The Editor, Sir:

Since Caribbean Fashion-Week, many thoughts have passed through my mind regarding the growing importance of the fashion industry in terms of employment, the economy and image of the Caribbean. Two reports in the news papers have encouraged me to pursue the topic. The first regards the welcome return of British-born Jamaican fashion designer Sandra Kennedy to the scene. Her beautifully designed line of clothing made many Jamaican women feel and look elegant for many years, and the particular curves of the African figure were well served by her designs.

Generation of designers

She was part of the second generation of fashion designers who built on the work of the generation of such pioneers as Josie Buchanan of blessed memory, Mae Fuertado and many others. Those pioneers were bold in asserting that their designs were excellent for Jamaicans and other discerning shoppers from around the world. The industry is fickle and with the global developments of mass production in the near east many fortunes were lost. Today, there is unheralded competition in the fashion industry worldwide.

The second report featured the work of Carlton Brown who is developing his craft as a tailor on Saville Row in London where the concept of bespoke was born, where he is being mentored by Andrew Madan Ramroop master tailor who was born in Trinidad. Brown emphasised the importance of the opportunity and the role of his adopted mother Martha Wallace who was a dressmaker. Jamaica's future must then target the bespoke, the high end of the fashion industry.

There was a time that our tailors and dressmakers were among the finest in the world and we have to once again ensure that this happens by training them well and exposing them to the best in the world.

I am, etc.,

HILARY HICKLING

hilary.hickling@gmail.com