‘From Paris with Love’

In 1994, Kerry embarked on a journey to Paris to study fashion design, chasing what she thought was her dream.?

But it was during her time at Parsons - a degree-granting school of art and design in the 1st arrondissement of Paris - when she transitioned into their newly offered design marketing program, that her true passion emerged; understanding the business of fashion.

While in Paris, Kerry interned at Vogue France, diving into the intricacies of the fashion industry and witnessing the meticulous six-month planning cycles that drive the creative world. Regular visits to Colette, the iconic Parisian concept store, left a lasting impression. “Colette wasn’t just a store - it was an experience, blending fashion, art, and lifestyle, featuring exclusive collaborations with top designers”, Kerry reminisces.?

KARL LAGERFELD said of Colette: "It’s the only shop where I go because they have things no one else has. I buy watches, telephones, jewellery there - everything really. They have invented a formula that you can’t copy easily, because there is only one Colette".?

Inspired by this, Kerry returned to Jamaica with a vision to create her own concept store. Thus, KerryManWomanHome was born; a space where fashion, art, and lifestyle came together to celebrate creativity.

But Kerry’s vision didn’t stop there. Kerry then met Aiesha Panton - the creative force behind PussBackFoot - at ‘Conversation Piece’, and the energy was right; Kerry was looking for the right partner for MoDA; a platform created to promote creative emerging talent, founded by her and Kibwe McGann , in 2012.

The COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges but also opportunities. Post-pandemic, Kerry found a space large enough to house her evolving vision. This marked the rebranding and merging of her ventures into what we now know as Locale. Under one roof, Locale combines three brands while promoting Caribbean creative talent.

Locale is more than a boutique; it’s a movement. With curated events every eight weeks, from wine and chocolate pairings to dinners with guest chefs, the space is a hub of creativity and community. Kerry credits the partnerships she's forged, including Aiesha, who curates these immersive experiences, and Dr. Dainia Baugh, whose skincare spa adds another dimension to Locale’s offerings.?

Beyond showcasing artisans, Locale takes it a step further by working with creatives to design and produce unique products under its own brand. From hammocks and light fixtures to candles and bags, these pieces reflect the rich creativity of the Caribbean.?

Kerry’s journey from Jamaica, to France, and back to Kingston is a testament to the power of vision, collaboration, and believing in the potential of the region. Through Locale, she continues to champion Caribbean artistry, proving that creativity paired with the right strategy can truly change the game.?

Article author William Greenwood was speaking to Kerry-Ann Clarke .

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