Trinidad and Tobago designer, model and software engineer Akilah James is combining her passions to help pave the way for further advancements in the local fashion industry. Experimenting with 3D printing and VR (virtual reality), among other things, she assures the aim is not for technology to replace artisans and their hard work, but to allow it to assist in the process.
James, 33, is the founder and CEO of BOSS [MOVEMENT], which she describes as “a visionary holding company, orchestrating a symphony of innovation, empowerment and creativity.”
She has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in computer science from Huston-Tillotson University and Prairie View A&M University, respectively. She has also been a software engineer for several years.
Her group, co-founded by Asia Haney, held a fashion show on September 21 titled The Alt, showcasing 3D-printed clothing.
Originally from Point Fortin but now based in the US, she said she wanted to bring a taste of what she has been working on to her home country.
[caption id="attachment_1111388" align="alignnone" width="683"] TT designer, model and software engineer Akilah James wears a 3D-printed Carnival backpack at her fashion show titled The Alt at LOFTT Gallery, Port of Spain on September 21. - Leonardo De Silva/Tange Studios[/caption]
The show was held at the LOFTT Gallery in Port of Spain.
Neon green, white and orange clothing made its way on the runway as impressed onlookers interacted with both the models and the designs.
Speaking to WMN in a phone interview, James said the show was great and the feedback exceptional. She added that while she was not nervous about introducing such a concept to TT, she was aware that there are still some people who may shy away from technology.
“And it was about showing how technology can be a part of fashion and how it can benefit it.”
[caption id="attachment_1111392" align="alignnone" width="683"] A models wears Akilah James' 3D-printed clothing. - Leonardo De Silva/Tange Studios[/caption]
There was also a panel discussion which allowed the audience to give their opinions or ask questions.
One concern raised, James said, was on the 3D-printed Carnival backpack she had on display.
An audience member rightfully said wirebending has a lot of cultural significance in the Caribbean, especially TT, and wondered if such technology would erase that.
She explained, “It’s not about pushing people out. I respect the artisans that we have and that are in this space. It’s about helping them and allowing them to cut down on time and costs as well.
“For instance, you could still bend your wire to make your designs to your liking, but you could print smaller pieces or fragments of the costume to embellish it. I want to use technology to help elevate what they are already doing.”
James said the audience was pleased with her answer and members said they appreciate that there is space for both the artists and the tech.
[caption id="attachment_1111390" align="alignnone" width="683"] TT designer, model and software e
