Jamaican designer eyes fashion immortality

Krista Henry. Staff Reporter

Aiming to be bold, "Timeless, Fresh and innovative" Is the mantra of upcoming Jamaican designer Johnpaul Pierre.Working out of New York City, Johnpaul, born Jermaine Watson, is working on getting to the top of the international fashion game.

Speaking with The Sunday Gleaner from New York recently, Johnpaul described his love for fashion which, he said, came from wanting the women in his life to feel and look special.

"I remember growing up as a child, watching TV and seeing women in pretty clothing and I used to wonder why doesn't my mom, aunt or the women in my life look like that. I think that's where my love for fashion began. I wanted to see 'everyday women' look as good as the ones on television and in the movies. I woke up one day, went and bought a sewing machine and decided I was going to make my mom a dress, and here I am now, years later, a designer," Pierre explained.

After teaching himself his craft, Johnpaul went to New York and has been designing for the last three years under his design label, 'Johnpaul Pierre'.

While Pierre has focused on designing , he is not limiting himself to that area, and is looking to extend his work into hair, make-up and possibly creative directing for photoshoots.

"My work has been used on shoot for a few upcoming artistes and top fashion photographers in New York," he said.

"Some noted celebrities that have worn my work include Jamaican singer Raine Seville and Jamaican actress Nyanda Cammock."

Pierre describes his style as unique and bold, for the everyday woman who wants to make a statement when she steps out of her house.

Having done a number of shows in Philadelphia and California, Pierre's most recent effort was last week in New York on a show called 'A Night of Fashion', produced by himself and Braata Productions, featuring a combination of art, music and fashion.

During the show, Pierre showcased his latest collection called 'Bold In Africa.'

While he doesn't live in Jamaica, Pierre claimed he has stayed true to his roots.

"My latest collection is titled 'Bold in Africa'. Being from the Caribbean, I am always going to include that flavour in my pieces. Additionally, when one thinks of the Caribbean, we think back to our African roots so there was definitely a connection between the African-inspired pieces and the Caribbean."

The future is looking bright for the designer.

"My ultimate goal is to be at the top of my game in the fashion industry. I want my brand to be synonymous with great designs. I hope to be featured on all the major shows in New York, Paris and Milan and have my pieces grace the covers of all the major magazines. I want to continue to fly the flag of Jamaica high in the world of fashion. In short, Johnpaul Pierre will be known the world over."