BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – BUDDING Designer Shannen Azuredee Spencer is one of the new face designers who will be burning up the runway at this year’s New York Fashion Week that runs from February 7-14.
Spencer is originally from Ponds Pasture, St. Kitts and comes from two generations of seamstresses.
She will be showcasing her Autumn/Winter 2013 collection from her Poetic Rhythm brand called ‘Push Play’.
“As a third generation seamstress, I had my first to learn hand sewing from my grandmother and I knew I was going to launch my own line of clothing one day,” she told SKNVibes in an exclusive interview.
She said she felt it was necessary to take time to research the field of business, and in 2007 she launched Poetic Rhythm.
Her line is based in New York and she is usually among the USVI, Boston and New York.
She is overjoyed about her showing at one of the world’s top fashion events, which is also the first time her designs will be hitting a runway.
“It's an awesome feeling beyond mere words. I’m overjoyed yet a bit nervous as it will serve as my first runway show as well.”
Spencer said her boyfriend, who is also a photographer, assisted her in preparing her portfolio to present to the organisers of the event by providing models and conducting photo-shoots under his USVI-based company - Images by Designs.
“They loved my portfolio and I was accepted,” she said.
She will be showcased tomorrow afternoon (Feb. 10).
“I would describe my design style as sophisticated chic. My inspiration comes just as it says, ‘Push Play’, meaning the beginning, as in more is yet to come. The ‘Play’ symbol (an arrow) is also embodied in some of the pieces.
“I have not pursued any courses in sewing or design, but I would love to in the future. Everything has been self-taught and there's always room for growth, and I love learning new things,” she said.
The fashion week is being held at the Metropolitan Pavilion and, according to Spencer, she feels honoured to be showing there as it is also where one of her favorite designers, Tracy Reese, debut her first collection.
And while she is at Fashion Week, she is also looking forward to seeing the works of other designers, including Zac Posen, Betsey Johnson, Nanette Lepore, Michael Kors and Rebecca Minkoff.
“There's always work to be done. For instance, even though my collection won't walk the runway until Sunday, I'm already working on Spring/Summer 2014.”
