Bill Edwards weaves a
story in linen
HE IS a fashion designer
who spins his machine to
create stylish and vibrant men's wear. But more
than that, Bill Edwards weaves
patterns, refines textures and experi-ments with.Edwards says his ambition is to set trends that satisfy the complex taste of Jamaican men. Jamaican men don't go for colours such as pink and green but if you package garments using creative pastels in the same colours (pink and green), they usually respond to them very well because it gives a more masculine look.
"Soft-textured linen shirts and pants in bright pastels are the trends for men this summer," he explains, while supervising a fashion shoot at Pulse Investments on Trafalgar Road, New Kingston, recently.
Edwards, who has been in fashion design for more than 10 years, also has a strong hold of the manufacturing and exporting aspects of his business. The manufacturing side of things operates from the LoJ Industrial Park Complex on Norman Road with a staff of 18, fashioning predominantly 100 per cent Italian linen clothing for export to North America and the Caribbean.
He has got attention from these markets through numerous trade shows such as the Magic International Show in Los Vegas, Caribbean Gifts and Fashion Show in Barbados, and the G. L. Conceil Trade Show in Martinique.
While he regards himself as a hands-on businessman, Edwards says he is more inspired by the creative aspects of his work.
"I enjoy the designing of intricate patterns, experimenting with colours and creating a sophisticated finish of his fabric. I have a lot of say in terms of the colours, patterns and texture of the fabric that I feel will attract the right market we target.
"Interestingly, both younger and older men are responding very well to the designs and many have said that the texture and colours are the main features that attract them to my work."
