The Year of the Snake: J. Angelique's Launch of Venom and Jin Forde

I definitely saw this one coming; a 2013 Runway Collection inspired by the snake motif (Check out below, an article I wrote in February). What I had not expected, was that a Caribbean based designer would be the one to recognise this growing trend and put together an innovative Travel Collection using the symbol in all its glory. This is why I love J. Angelique. Designer Janelle Forde and her partner Rian Codrington are a beautifully oiled machine when it comes to relating their vision for the brand to the fashion masses. They remain current, creative and consistent.

An Article I wrote for CocoBelle Magazine in February '13

Fashion Seasons pose a tricky situation for designers in the Tropics. In Trinidad I see Easter and Christmas Collections popping up instead of the traditional Spring/Summer or Fall/Winter seasons, seeing that climatically we do not experience temperate conditions. At CAFD, I brought up this question to a tutor, and was told that if we are to be considered on an international scheme, and to expand our market, that we need to participate in a 4-season plan. However, while I do agree, I have to congratulate designers for finding niche markets by designing for Resort and now, Travel. If you look at the consumers of our locally based fashion, they are women of the world who love travelling and experiencing different cultures. They are people who despite living in the Caribbean, take vacations to other islands, go on cruises and spend weekends lounging poolside.

A popular J.Angelique Silhouette; "Swim Dress"

As I said before, the J. Angelique brand remains consistent. The aesthetic will always be straddling the limit between sexy and over the top. Janelle loves to experiment with different ways to reveal what she sees as the most tempting erogenous zones; cleavage, hips, thighs and back.

Loved this detail! A butterfly Travel Case

Loved this Jacket! The peplum moved so beautifully

I do have to say that the surprising twist of creativity came in with the debut of Jin Forde; a women's work-wear line! To me, this will be the more successful collection. I saw many pieces that would work well in the life of real women (with real bodies), especially women who love wearing the brand when at play. Jane ain't no dull girl! I heard over the chatter, that people had concerns about the fabrics used for the work collection and I must agree. Especially under the bright lights, the textiles in the collection appeared too sheer or clingy for office. However, J.Angelique does promise the consumer the option to change fabrics when having the designs custom-made. Also, when observing a Runway show, I urge critics to recognise that Runway Styling is very different form real-life styling, and often has nothing to do with it. So when you see a plunging neckline on a jacket over a bare chest, and a thigh high slit strutting your way, don't by any means think that this is what you should be wearing to work on Monday. All pieces are tweaked and manipulated for Runway so as to create visual interest and spark a reaction from the audience. Imagine what a bore it would be to see comfort heels clunking their way along a catwalk... 

Asymmetrical Peplum Dress

All in all, the evening was a pleasure. The show was well planned and executed. Attention to detail was paid, and a consciousness about the fact that fashion is a business, was definitely made clear. Kudos.

Designer Janelle Forde