Framework
Fashioning Jamaica: Building a Sustainable Fashion Framework
A bridge is being built between London, England, and Kingston, Jamaica, with one clear mission: to create economic opportunities for local people through fashion and textiles. Led by Faith Johnson, Managing Director of Caramel Rock, the Fashioning Jamaica Framework provides the resources and tools needed to drive long-term development and change.
The framework is built around three central themes:
1. Skills & Training
2. Manufacturing Fashion
3. Entrepreneurship
Building a Sustainable Fashion Ecosystem
At its heart, Fashioning Jamaica research is about establishing a sustainable fashion ecosystem that taps into the island’s cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and creativity while connecting to the global fashion industry.
The goal is simple: to create a self-sustaining ecosystem that benefits both the local community and the international market. This is achieved by supporting artisans and young designers through action-research in training, mentorship, and access to opportunities.
Building a Sustainable Fashion Ecosystem
At its heart, Fashioning Jamaica research is about establishing a sustainable fashion ecosystem that taps into the island’s cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and creativity while connecting to the global fashion industry.
The goal is simple: to create a self-sustaining ecosystem that benefits both the local community and the international market. This is achieved by supporting artisans and young designers through action-research in training, mentorship, and access to opportunities.
Three Pillars Graphic
- Imagine three vertical columns (like building pillars).
- Each pillar is labelled: Manufacturing, Training, Entrepreneurship.
- A base/foundation at the bottom labelled “Fashioning Jamaica Framework”.
- A roof/top banner labelled “Empowering Jamaica’s Fashion Industry”.
This makes it visually clear that all three pillars are supporting the same goal.
Three Pillars Graphic
- Imagine three vertical columns (like building pillars).
- Each pillar is labelled: Manufacturing, Training, Entrepreneurship.
- A base/foundation at the bottom labelled “Fashioning Jamaica Framework”.
- A roof/top banner labelled “Empowering Jamaica’s Fashion Industry”.
This makes it visually clear that all three pillars are supporting the same goal.
Empowering Local Artisans and Designers
Jamaica has long been celebrated for its music, art, and culture. Now, fashion is emerging as the next major cultural export.
By blending local materials, traditional techniques, and contemporary design, Fashioning Jamaica empowers local artisans and designers to compete on a global stage.
The framework emphasises:
- Job creation and youth empowerment through education and training.
- Opportunities for artisans and designers to showcase skills and integrate global trends with Jamaican heritage.
- Building a globally competitive yet locally rooted fashion identity.
Community and Sustainability at the Core
The framework places community development and sustainability at its centre. This includes:
- Encouraging eco-friendly practices such as upcycling, use of local materials, and slow fashion principles.
- Offering training and resources to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity.
- Ensuring that growth in fashion directly benefits Jamaica’s economy, culture, and people.
By harnessing the power of local craftsmanship, Fashioning Jamaica research project is shaping a bold new identity to new knowledge for Jamaican fashion: one that honours its heritage while embracing innovation and global collaboration.
Empowering Local Artisans and Designers
Jamaica has long been celebrated for its music, art, and culture. Now, fashion is emerging as the next major cultural export.
By blending local materials, traditional techniques, and contemporary design, Fashioning Jamaica empowers local artisans and designers to compete on a global stage.
The framework emphasises:
- Job creation and youth empowerment through education and training.
- Opportunities for artisans and designers to showcase skills and integrate global trends with Jamaican heritage.
- Building a globally competitive yet locally rooted fashion identity.
Community and Sustainability at the Core
The framework places community development and sustainability at its centre. This includes:
- Encouraging eco-friendly practices such as upcycling, use of local materials, and slow fashion principles.
- Offering training and resources to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity.
- Ensuring that growth in fashion directly benefits Jamaica’s economy, culture, and people.
By harnessing the power of local craftsmanship, Fashioning Jamaica research project is shaping a bold new identity to new knowledge for Jamaican fashion: one that honours its heritage while embracing innovation and global collaboration.