Harewood ‘Styles Out Loud’ with bold 2025 collection

Designer Cicely Harewood, the creative force behind C H Needleworks, continues to make a lasting impact on Barbados’ fashion industry with her annual showcase, Style Out Loud: The Fashion Show.

On Sunday evening, Harewood unveiled her 2025 collection at the Daphne Joseph Hackett Theatre, where statuesque models took to the runway in five dynamic segments.

The third edition of the event opened with Strictly Business, a chic line of professional wear. It was followed by Elegantly Casual, which blended comfort with style, and Trendsetters, featuring pieces perfect for the party scene. Harewood also reintroduced Sand Washed, her bathing suit collection launched last year, and concluded with her signature Evening Wear collection.

Minister of Housing, Lands, and Maintenance, Dwight Sutherland, who has supported Harewood since his tenure as Minister of Small Business, Entrepreneurship, and Commerce, praised her ongoing contribution to the fashion scene. “Fashion in this country is making a comeback,” he said.

Reflecting on his initial collaboration with Harewood, Sutherland shared, “It was through my discussion with her that I began to have a greater appreciation for the power of fashion, in an industry that has the potential to transform lives, provide employment opportunities, and export our culture to the world. What continues to impress me to this day is her determination, humility, and exceptional talent.”

Sutherland also noted the renewed focus on positioning fashion as a viable sector through initiatives from Export Barbados.

“Design District Bridgetown, based at Pelican will be the new home of design in Barbados, bringing together fashion, shoes, bags, jewelry and even a model agency among other things all in one sphere,” he said.

The invigorated fashion industry will culminate within Design Barbados Fashion Week.

Minister Sutherland emphasised the potential of the industry, “We may be a small island, but our talent is boundless, and our creativity is rich. We have already seen what is possible on the global stage with our very own Rihanna, a global icon.” He noted. “Here at home, people like Ms. Harewood are providing something equally powerful, that you can build, grow and lead right here in Barbados.”

Looking ahead, Sutherland stressed the importance of continued support for local designers. “As we cast our gaze forward to the global stage, we must continue to invest in our designers, create access to international markets, forge strategic partnerships, and establish platforms where talent can shine in their own shows,” he said.

Sutherland reminded, “There was a time not that long ago that Barbados had a thriving garment industry. We produced for international brands such as Playtex. Our factories were filled with skilled workers, especially women, whose craftsmanship helped to export Barbados’ quality and creativity to the world. In the face of globalisation and changing markets, that infrastructure slowly disappeared in this country, factories closed, and manufacturing dried up.”

However, he added, “Today, we are rebuilding, but this time smarter, more sustainably, and with the future in mind. We are investing in technology, talent, and innovation. We are creating space for designers and textile entrepreneurs to thrive once again.”

“As a government, we have recognised that not every path to success looks the same. This is why we have continued to tailor policies, programmes, and funding opportunities to meet entrepreneurs where they are. Whether they are launching a fashion line, selling clothing from a small boutique, or even simply engaging in dressmaking within the confines of their own homes,” Sutherland explained.

Donna Hope of the Small Business Association of Barbados also addressed the audience, praising Harewood for her ongoing contribution to the fashion industry.

The evening’s entertainment included performances by Shelley Parris, Sonjina Kirton, and Alisha Herbert, who was accompanied by Rojay Padmore on keyboard.

(STT)