RICHERRDA LEONARD IS obsessed with making stylish and trendy swimsuits. And she reinvents the timeless fashion piece with ease. She adds lace, fringe or an appliqué to put her own creative spin to make them stand out. Her creative skills are so diverse that she can mix and match bikini tops and bottoms to create a one-of-a kind piece.
She can make a triangle top to go with a retro or high waist bottom or a bandeau to go with a skinny or boy leg. She told EASY magazine she grew up watching her grandmother and aunt sewing.
“The first time I ever used a sewing machine I got hooked,” she said. “In 2012 I went to visit my aunt in Trinidad. While I was there, she was making curtains and I played around on her machine and something happened. After my summer trip that year, I got a machine for Christmas.”
“As a child, I always used to see my grandmother on the machine and it never occurred to me that I would follow that path. I think when I came back from Trinidad she saw my new-found interest in design and garment making and bought me the machine for Christmas.
Although Richerrda has a passion for design, she admitted that she did not think it was a practical career, but after making her first swimsuit it changed her outlook on life.
“Also while I was at school my clothing and textiles teacher encouraged me to use my talent.”
While studying sociology and literature at the Barbados Community College (BCC), it became difficult for Richerrda to manage her business and study.
Eventually, it came to a point where she had to decide which should take priority. The 20-year-old chose her business.
She does not only designs swimsuits but other garments as well.
The self-taught designer added that she has mastered an unorthodox technique, noting she does not need measurements.
“I’m still learning but it is a process. When I make clothes I already know what I am going to do in my mind so I don’t need to measure people, but I do it sometimes. I don’t even use patterns; I have a cut and go technique and it works pretty well for me.”
The former Lodge student and owner of Sheberry Designs said she is also interested in personal styling. She said she sees fashion in a holistic manner, including branding and business. Right now she is in the process of creating a catalogue of her work to showcase in boutiques.
But that is not all she aspires to achieve; she also wants to create periodical fashion magazines highlighting local fashion and models.
Richerrda has also realised that alterations and revamps have become popular among her customers. She said being able to fix a problem or improve the style of clothing is convenient for those who may not be able to afford a new outfit. (SB)