The Caribbean is a melting pot of vibrant culture, bold creativity, and rich storytelling, and the Caribbean Fashion Collective (CFC) stands as a shining beacon for these values in the fashion industry. Founded to empower designers from the region and beyond, CFC is reshaping how the world perceives Caribbean-inspired fashion while fostering a global community of creativity.
We had the pleasure of speaking with Xavier Walker, Founder of CFC, to discuss the collective's journey, mission, and vision for the future.
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind founding the Caribbean Fashion Collective? What motivated you to create this platform?
XW: From seeing how other collectives treat their designers and over charge them for participation in the shows and not delivering on their spoken and contracted promises
How does CFC’s mission of fostering creativity and cultural diversity influence your approach to supporting designers?
XW: Besides fashion shows, we’ll set up meet and greets with buyers and influential people in the fashion industry. We’ll also make sure to highlight who they are as designers and their collective. We’ll have meetings so that we can understand the designers long-term mission/goals in order to bring their vision to life. Ultimately, we’ll serve as a community our designers can count on and contribute to their growth in the fashion industry.
How does CFC balance its Caribbean roots with its inclusive approach to welcoming designers from around the world?
XW: The Caribbean Fashion Collective (CFC) balances its Caribbean roots with a global, inclusive approach by celebrating Caribbean culture while embracing diverse perspectives and talents from around the world. While CFC’s mission is deeply rooted in the vibrant heritage and creative spirit of the Caribbean, it recognizes that fashion thrives through cross-cultural collaboration. To achieve this, CFC maintains a platform that highlights the unique, culturally rich styles of Caribbean designers but also extends invitations to emerging talents worldwide, fostering a global community within the fashion industry. This approach not only showcases Caribbean identity but also enriches it through the influences of international designers, allowing for a harmonious blend that honors its heritage while opening doors for creative exchange.
Why is it essential to have a dedicated platform for Caribbean and Caribbean-inspired fashion, and what unique perspectives do you think Caribbean designers bring to the global fashion industry?
XW: It’s important to have a dedicated platform for all Caribbean designers alike to share their inspiration and creativity with the world and not just keep it boxed in the Caribbean. Caribbean design will bring innovation, creativity, and story-telling from a different perspective.
Could you share some of the key initiatives CFC undertakes to empower emerging designers and elevate their brands?
XW: We’ll connect them with the right team in the fashion industry, assisting the designer with a way of improving their brands with new trends and facilitating meet/greet mixers.
What do you see as the biggest challenges Caribbean designers face when trying to gain international exposure, and how does CFC help overcome them?
XW: Some of the biggest challenges Caribbean designers face are a lack of resources and finance. One way we help overcome these challenges is that they can send their collection to us, even if they can’t necessarily commute, and have them still be a part of the collective to gain media coverage. In the future, we’re planning a Caribbean tour so all designers can physically be included.
How does CFC foster collaboration among designers, both within the Caribbean and internationally?
XW: We generally don’t foster collaborations, as that’s more of a choice on the individual brand or designer; however, by being a part of our networking events, it gives designers an opportunity to talk among each other with the possibility for collaboration.
Are there specific mentorship or educational opportunities that CFC offers to help new designers succeed?
XW: We’re still in the planning phase of that, as we’re speaking to a few fashion influentials
What milestones are you most proud of in CFC’s journey so far?
XW: How the Caribbean and fashion community gravitated towards us as and has gained a lot of outreach.
What are some of CFC’s goals for the coming years, and how do you envision the collective’s impact evolving?
XW: Some of our goals for the coming years, besides the Caribbean tour, are to expand our brand outside of New York Fashion Week to other fashion capitals and the Caribbean at large. We envision the collective impact evolving not just as a platform for designers at large but as a hub to bridge the gap.
Are there any exciting projects or collaborations on the horizon that you can share with our readers?
XW: We’re happy to announce that we’re partnering with T McDonald Cosmetics to be our exclusive cosmetic brand for our upcoming show in Sept 2025 NYFW SS26.
How do you plan to expand CFC’s reach and open new markets for Caribbean designers?XW: Expanding the Caribbean Fashion Collective (CFC) involves a multi-layered approach focused on increasing visibility, forging strategic partnerships, and providing designers with platforms that reach global audiences.
In your opinion, how has Caribbean fashion evolved over the years, and what do you envision for its future on the global stage?
XW: Caribbean fashion has evolved tremendously over the years, shifting from primarily local craftsmanship and traditional styles to a dynamic, contemporary force that bridges heritage with modern design. We envision Caribbean Fashion Collective (CFC) becoming a globally recognized movement that celebrates diversity, sustainability, and cultural storytelling.
What advice would you offer to young Caribbean designers who are just starting out in the fashion industry?
XW: The industry will not be as easy as there will be a lot of ups and downs. Stay true to who you are as a designer/creative, always remember the “why” in what you’re doing, network with the right people, and strive for excellence.
Through its dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to its mission, the Caribbean Fashion Collective is not just a platform; it’s a movement. A movement that celebrates the spirit, diversity, and brilliance of Caribbean fashion while opening doors to a world of possibilities.
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