YOUR PRIVATE sanctuary
This spectacular beachfront estate has six ensuite bedrooms in four beautifully decorated air-conditioned pavilions, each furnished with custom-made teak furniture. A great room, office/library, dining room and fully-outfitted kitchen comprise the main pavilion. Outdoor amenities include an ocean-front infinity pool, lighted tennis court, and private decks. Paddleboards, kayaks, snorkel equipment, bicycles and other beach and recreational equipment are provided.
The property is just steps away from The Baths, Virgin Gorda’s famous destination, and two unspoiled beaches, Little Trunk Bay and Valley Trunk Bay. A private movie theater, daily maid service, state-of-the art gym and a chef complete the villa’s offerings.
Welcome to our Fashion Annual
In our most vibrant issue yet we celebrate fashion, fun and colour - and also pay homage to the BVI Emancipation Festival that runs throughout July and August, with all of its lively cultural heritage celebrations.
We gathered talented folks from all over the Virgin Islands - designers, models, retailers, jewellers and stylists to showcase our fashion industry and prove that many of the hottest looks and trends this summer and beyond can be purchased here in the Virgin Islands.
This issue is jam-packed with everything from laid-back beach-style swag to high street, VIP glamour! We start off with Alivern Smith-Harrigan, the lady behind Beautiful By Jasanay in From the High Street to the Hills, page 20 and Being Ali, page 21.
Surf School BVI with its super chilled vibes is where we find surfer Roddy hanging out and catching waves in our men’s Board Meeting feature, page 28.
We talk to two of Virgin Islands’ style stars, Deputy Governor David D. Archer Jr and Irma Connor and learn all about their style journeys in A Heritage of Style on page 38 and Timeless Style on page 62.
Turn to page 40 as we follow a group of friends to Long Bay Resort in Vacay Vibes. It wouldn’t be a great fashion issue without the hottest swimwear! Stop by Oil Nut Bay Marina Village for the Sea Siren feature on page 52.
Turn to page 64 for A-list glamour in The Bodyguard. VIP Nikki wears luxelooks by NAMI Resort & Swim - with her personal security team looking out for her every step of the way thanks to FLR Enterprises. She travels on the water in luxury with Kewl Water Charters.
To the many people (of which there are too many to list!) who helped us bring this gorgeous issue together and without whom it would not be as special. Thank you.
PS. Next up in our September/October issue we celebrate our food and beverage industry. Out on stands on or before 1 September.28
FASHION
20 HIGH STREET TO THE HILLS
Glamorous Beautiful By Jasanay looks flanked by The Ridge Road Painted Murals, depicting our culture and heritage in rich colour.
28 BOARD MEE TING
Men’s surfing vibes with the latest swag to boot by Arawak Surf and Deep Bay Watersports.
40 VACAY VIBES
A group of friends go on vacation wearing looks from six of our hottest local fashion houses - HiHo, House, La Boutique, Latitude 18º, Taino Boutique & Trèfle.
40
52 SEA SIREN
In our Cover Feature, we stop by Oil Nut Bay Marina Village to see a selection of sporty, color-block swimwear from Arawak Surf and Luna Boutique.
64 THE BODYGUARD
A-list glamour in looks by NAMI Resort & Swim, with private security at an unobtrusive distance from FLR Enterprises.
76 STOCKISTS PEOPLE
27 BEING ALI
The lady behind Beautiful By Jasanay, Alivern Smith-Harrigan is more than just a Fashionista.
64
38 A HERITAGE OF STYLE
Deputy Governor, David D. Archer tells us the story of how his stand-out style journey began.
62 TIMELESS STYLE
Stacy France talks to Irma Connor and learns that this classy lady’s effortless style shines from the inside out.
REGULARS
6 PUBLISHER’S LE TTER
10 IN THIS ISSUE
14 NEWS
Trends, Inspiration & Objects of Desire.
In this Issue
Thomas Lifestyle & Fashion Photographer
TheoOriginally from Jamaica, Theo moved to the British Virgin Islands when he was a teenager. After receiving a camera as a gift, he developed a passion for capturing people as they are, in their natural state and adding a unique, nostalgic style to the images, which stemmed from a feeling of joy that came from looking at old photographs. We would like to thank Theo for the excellent photographic work he has contributed for this issue.
Follow Theo: @theoxthomas.
Charlotte Brodie Director of Digital
Charlotte moved to the British Virgin Islands with her two children in November 2020. After her maternity leave, Charlotte decided there was no better time to start her own digital consultancy and Odyssey was born. In a matter of eight months she has partnered with some of the most influential local companies, to drive the digital landscape in the right direction. Her portfolio includes VIPY magazine (of course!), CocoMaya, Capriccio di Mare, Coldwell Banker BVI and Nora Hazel Point.
Follow Odyssey Consulting: @odysseyconsultancy_bvi.
Jareena Penn Miss British Virgin Islands 2022
Jareena is a student of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College. To continue developing her passion for the arts, she intends to transition her focus to Humanities study. From an early age, Jareena was taught the value of hard work, and this is exemplified in her commitment to community, sports, dance and academics. As a survivor of sexual abuse, Jareena is a strong advocate for raising awareness of abuse. Her nonprofit YANA (You Are Not Alone) is a space for victims to own their stories with the goal of shifting the paradigm. Follow Jareena: @jareena_penn.
$995,000
1 Pool
3 Bedrooms Breathtaking views
2 Wrap around decks
Luck HillPUBLISHED BY Parlance Media
WHATSAPP +1 284 346 1559
PUBLISHER
Erin Paviour-Smith erin@parlance.media
ART DIRECTOR
Emma Norton
SUB EDITOR
Nina Abbott
CONTRIBUTORS
Stacy France
Erin Paviour-Smith
READ OUR DIGITAL PUBLICATIONS issuu.com/alookingglass
@parlance.media @parlancemedia parlance.media
VIRGIN ISLANDS PROPERTY & YACHT (“VIPY”) is published six times per year (January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October and November/ December). 2023 Parlance Media Limited. All pieces reproduced in this issue are under prior copyright by the creators or by the contractual arrangements with their clients. Nothing shown may be reproduced in any form without obtaining the permission of the creators and any other person or company who may have copyright ownership. The publisher of VIPY assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the content placed in its publications. For avoidance of doubt, Parlance Media Ltd gives no warranty or guarantee in its publications.
TRENDS, INSPIRATION & OBJECTS OF DESIRE
News
Handcrafted with love in the British Virgin Islands
Ana Gada’s jewellery designer Brit Maxwell is inspired by the colours and moods of the Caribbean. From the tropical blues of the ocean, to the intricate patterns of our flora and fauna, you’ll find echoes of the Caribbean in all her pieces.
Each piece is handcrafted in Brit’s studio in Virgin Gorda and uses only the finest gold, gold-filled, silver, semi-precious gems and high quality pearls. Ana Gada’s signature discs and charms feature imprints of sea fans, corals and sand dollars found on the beaches of the Caribbean.
Brit also creates jewellery on commission, working with customers to capture their Caribbean memories in their very own Ana Gada design for weddings and other special occasions.
To view more from the collection and order see ana-gada.com.
Ana Gada is also sold in high-end hotels and boutiques in the British Virgin Islands.
Contact Brit Maxwell for more details:
(284) 541 7554
@anagada22
@anagada
Apparel for Your VOYAGE
Introducing VOYAGE Apparel: VOYAGE Charters’ meticulously crafted collection of practical, high quality apparel for your voyage.
Including UPF 50+ quick-dry hoodies, that provide sun protection in many captivating colours. Their fabulous Turkish towels are soft and elegant for any occasion. Stay ahead with trendy VOYAGE caps, koozies and handy travel mugs, perfect for your land and sea adventures.
Planning a trip to the British Virgin Islands? VOYAGE have got you covered! They ship within the BVI and will have your items ready upon arrival. No need to pack, just arrive and enjoy the convenience and comfort of VOYAGE’s premium quality swag.
VOYAGE Apparel believe in practicality without sacrificing style. Shop their exceptional collection today and embark on a charter-friendly fashion revolution.
Shop the full collection at voyagecharters.com/shop.
Follow VOYAGE Apparel for gamechanging surprises next season, including active wear, swimwear, resort wear, and more.
@voyage_apparel_
@voyageapparel
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP VOYAGE Sun Shirts are 100% microfiber polyester, UPF 50+ quick dry fabric, stain resistant. Lightweight, soft and luxurious turkish towels in a range of colours.
Vibrant Wearable Art & Bespoke Design
Bairiki by Jan Barwick features vibrant, wearable art pieces using the softest silk and poly-satin in an exclusive range of scarves, shrugs, sarongs and bags. Each piece highlights elements from Jan’s stunning original paintings that are a reflection of her memories of living in Africa, the British Virgin Islands, Cayman, Florida and The South Pacific.
Home Goods, Accessories & Bespoke Design
The finest Bairiki designs are printed onto a carefully curated portfolio of high quality home goods and accessories, custom boat canvas furniture, textiles, rugs and wallpaper. Talk to Bairiki about their product development service for clients wanting exclusive, custom-made pieces and installations.
Bairiki Island, within the Tarawa atoll in Kiribati where Jan grew up is the first nation that will be reclaimed by the sea due to climate change. Committed to the plight of our oceans, Bairiki is collaborating with the Association of Reef Keepers (ARK BVI) to bring attention to the decline of the hawksbill turtle and dying coral reefs.
Bairiki by Jan Barwick clothing and accessories are available exclusively from David Penn, Bairiki Distributor in the British Virgin Islands.
Contact David on WhatsApp text (284) 541 1212 or voice (284) 442 4544.
The Bairiki pop-up store is located within Stems Flower Shop, Wickhams Cay II, Road Town.
(284) 541 4422
bairikibyjanbarwick.com.
@bairiki_bvi
@bairikibvi.
Bright Eyes
Stop by House of Luxury to check out their latest style collection of luxury designer eyewear - The musthave fashion accessory for Summer including Bottega Veneta, Cartier, Chloé, Gucci, Mont Blanc, Saint Laurent and many more.
Available in store from House of Luxury at the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park, Road Town. Open Monday to Saturday, 11am to 6pm. (284) 443-3030
sales@houseofluxurybvi.com
@houseofluxurybvi
@houseofluxurybvi
We Celebrate Trèfle
Trèfle, led by Virgin Islands fashion visionary Kristin Frazer is in its 15th year. What an incredible journey it has been! From countless fashion shows to celebrity endorsements (who could forget THAT Beyoncé and Blue Ivy moment!) to major contract agreements. The 15th Anniversary collection called “The Agglomeration ” is a reflection of the BLACK Collection enhanced with the gorgeous new Paradise print. The Company’s branding has undergone a refresh with a new word and symbol logo that represents culture, heritage, legacy and evolution. We look forward to many more exciting announcements as Trèfle celebrates the #roadtothe15th!
To learn more, see TrefleDesigns.com (284) 440 3006
@trefledesigns
@trefledesigns
Va Va Voluminous!
Irma wears a romantic, vintage-inspired look from Joslin’s Designs, available exclusively from NAMI Resort & Swim.
This pure white ‘Julianna’ dress is crafted from lightweight, cotton ramie fabric with pointelle detailing that has a delicate texture and is framed by beautiful voluminous sleeves.
Featuring an alluring open back with oversized ties that can be looped into a bow.
Perfectly accessorised with a crystal choker necklace and earrings with glass slipper stilettos.
Irma’s serene look is curated by Stacy at NAMI Resort & Swim, Romasco Place (opposite Social Security Board), Road Town, Tortola.
(284) 496-8989 (WhatsApp)
(284) 496-7788
@namibvi
HIGH STREET to the HILLS
Glamorous looks set against the dramatic Ridge Road Painted Murals - A rich and colourful backdrop of our culture and history.
Photography by Theo Thomas Styling by Alivern Smith-Harrigan & Marsha David Production styling by Erin Paviour-Smith Hair & Make-up by Akeema Crabbe & Jareena PennBEING ALI
Alivern Smith-Harrigan is a fashion retailer and stylist intent on supporting women with one sole purpose - revealing their beauty from the inside out.
By Erin Paviour-Smith • Photography by Kamaal LettsomeOn a sunny morning in Road Town, Alivern or Ali as her friends call her, buzzes about her fashion and accessories store Beautiful by Jasanay, putting together looks for our High Street to the Hills feature.
Accompanied by long-time righthand woman and store manager, Marsha David - the two match clothing and accessories with an unspoken ease.
The early years
Ali started out in the fashion industry over 35-years ago with Tropical Sunshine, a modeling group who performed at fashion shows locally and around the Caribbean. In the early 1990s she joined forces with Terry Donovan working with the Miss World British Virgin Islands pageant in a role that encompassed everything from caring for the contestants to securing sponsorship.
Fast-forward to the early 2000s when Ali began suffering from skin blemishes on her neck. “To cover it, I started wearing funky necklaces” she says.
The necklaces drew positive attention, so Ali began selling accessories from the back of her car initially just to co-workers and friends, but due to the consistently high demand she opened an accessories store. “The irony is that Beautiful by Jasanay began out of my insecurities” she continues.
Ali wanted to call the company
“Beautiful”, but husband and cofounder Glenn Harrigan suggested adding “by Jasanay”, a combination of their four childrens’ names - Jaida, Alyssa, Chanelle and Rayvern (Ja-san-ay).
In 2005, Beautiful By Jasanay opened at Village Cay Marina selling primarily jewellery and accessories. Village Cay management suggested adding clothing to the product line to generate sales from their guests. Ali was already traveling internationally to source inventory, so it was easy to introduce clothing to the repertoire.
To Ali’s surprise, the clothing wasn’t purchased by tourists, it was snapped up by the local community. “Customers began asking me to dress them for special occasions, events, weddings and even work and it just grew from there” she says.
A recent addition to the line-up is shoes, which make Beautiful By Jasanay a one-stop shopping destination that dresses ladies from head-to-toe.
A bigger purpose
“Our goal is to bring out the inner beauty and support women to be the best they can be - Tell us who, why, where and when and we’ll do the rest. We love to create looks, not just sell labels” she says.
Ali not only loves to help all women in our community to look and feel beautiful – including an annual commitment to support the Miss
BVI and Mrs BVI pageants, but she is also passionate about helping them improve their emotional and mental wellbeing via a series of conversation parties that address topics affecting women.
Ali thanks her valued customers and team. Supporter of over 17-years, Marsha David, Angelle Cameron and Kareem-Nelson Hull for Promotions and her biggest supporters, husband Glenn and their four children. •
BOARD MEE TING
Cut out from the office and head to J-Bay for a surf in the latest swag from Deep Bay Watersports and Arawak Surf.
Photographed at Surf School BVI, Josiah’s Bay, Tortola
Photography by Theo Thomas • Styling by Erin Paviour-SmithA HERITAGE Of STYLE
Erin Paviour-Smith talks to Deputy Governor of the Virgin Islands, David D. Archer and uncovers the story behind his standout personal style.
David, tell me about how and when your personal style journey began? As a young boy, aged 10 or 12, my mother (Mrs Janice Stoutt) always had Spiegel catalogues around the house and I would skim through them. As my Mum did also, she would say “David, I am going to order something. As you have done well in school, would you like something too?” That is when I began to aspire to have clothing that was different from everyone else. That’s when I first remember getting into style and fashion.
How does culture play a part in your personal style? My Mum’s family have an innate sense of style. Right now my Mum is favouring African prints with matching wraps for her hair, which make a statement. My paternal Grandfather, the late Prince McDonald Stoutt - a Member of the House of Assembly, liked to wear hats and walked with a cane. As it happens, I also like to wear hats and collect walking canes. One day I took a walk through Cane Garden Bay and when my Mum saw me, she said, “Did you know your Grandfather always walked with a cane? You twirl the cane in the exact same way he did.” So that is something special. My Grandfather’s brother (my Great Uncle) was the late Hamilton Lavity Stoutt - the first and longest serving Chief Minister of the Virgin Islands. I remember that he always wore tailored suits, with a stylish tie and pocket square.
Are there any other influences on your style? I am an avid thrifter. It may seem like I shop in regular stores or online, but I don’t! I love the idea of having a piece of clothing that was part of someone else’s history that I can make my own. Also, the cut of jackets are different these days. I love the way vintage jackets are tailored and have collected quite a few!
What are the top three words that best describe your style? Courageous, classic and intriguing.
Please tell me who your favourite fashion designers are? Ralph Lauren Purple Label and Tom Ford. Because both of these designers transcend time.
Tell me about one of your most favourite ‘go-to’ looks. One of my favourite ‘go to’ looks is a pair of Bermuda shorts, blue blazer and based on the occasion, teamed with a pair of moccasins, trainers or dress shoes, then topped with a hat and based on the occasion that could even be a baseball cap.
What are your favourite colours to wear? Blue and red.
Do you have any grooming secrets for gentlemen reading this? Starting with clothing, everyone should own a tailored jacket and pants, as well as a suit. When buying off the shelf, take it to a tailor and have them fit to your
body. For grooming, don’t wait until you go for a haircut, buy yourself a shaving kit and keep yourself shaved, unless that is the look you are going for.
Erin: What is your signature fragrance? David: Virgin Island Water by Creed. The notes capture the tropical scent carried in the trade winds through the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Creed is my go-to for special occasions. For every day, I found an after-shave at Old Navy that I originally purchased to spray my car! It’s just $14 and smells great.
Finally, what are your top tips for any ladies and gentlemen reading this who may want to become more style savvy, but may not know how to start? I think the two things I want to encourage people in the BVI to do is, 1) don’t be afraid to stand out. 2) if you feel good and the clothing represents your character, go for it! •
VACAY VIBES
Some like it hot! Summer fun as friends vacation in some of the hottest resort looks and colours of the season, sourced locally of course!
Photography by Theo Thomas • Photographed at Long Bay Resort, TortolaCLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Cream bohemian crochet tank, $56 & skirt, $80 from Latitude 18º. Echo knit polo dress, $119 and brown gauze dress, $139 paired with EB Design necklace, $45 all from Taino Boutique. “Feriado Nacional” palm leaf button through maxi-dress, $167 from La Boutique. Havianas “Pareo Tropical” wrap, $29.95 from Taino Boutique with straw hat and earrings from Latitude 18º.
SEA SIREN
Sporty swimwear looks steal the scene this Summer in bold colours from Arawak Surf and Luna Boutique.
Photography by Theo Thomas • Styling by Erin Paviour-Smith Photographed at Oil Nut Bay Marina Village, North Sound, Virgin Gorda THIS SPREAD Bond-eye “Madison” one-piece in Coral Tiger, $235 from Luna Boutique.XXXXXAD Constellations
boasts not only a stunning, unique and very private hoe and very private hoe and very private home but also its own little white sand beach.
TIMELESS STYLE
Stacy France sits down with Ms Irma Connor, and learns that this classy lady’s effortless style shines from the inside out.
Tell me about how and when your style journey began? I was born with a passion for fashion!
What are your biggest style influences? My style is influenced by my mood. Being in a good mood always sets the tone for amazing style.
How does culture play a part in your personal style? I was born and raised in the BVI where my parents always allowed me to be free with my sense of style. No matter where I go in the BVI, I take into consideration the environment I am in, but I remain true to my individuality. Growing up I was never afraid to stand out and that remains true to this day.
What are the Top 3 words that best describe your style? Unique, classy and comfortable
Please tell me who your favourite Designers are in BVI or overseas? These can be men’s and/or women’s designers. I consider myself to be designer-free. As long as the piece is comfortable and unique, I would definitely go for it.
Please tell me about one of your most favourite “go-to” look. My
Irma loves!
favorite look is semi casual; a dress, high heels and accessories.
What is your favourite colour to wear? White.
Who are your favorite style icons? Singer Rihanna, Actress Eva Marcille and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex.
What is your signature fragrance? Good Girl by Carolina Herrera
And finally, what are your top tips for any ladies reading this? It does not matter what you wear, as long as you have confidence. Don’t be afraid to make a statement with your outfit. •
Photographs by Theo Thomas for NAMI Resort & SwimThe BODYGUARD
OPPOSITE
Photographed on location in the heart of the North Sound of Virgin Gorda, the Little Bay Estate is one of the finest waterfront properties in the Caribbean. The property spans 7-acres and has nearly 2,000 feet of incredible water frontage directly onto the Sound. For more see: thelittlebayestate.com.
THIS PAGE Linen maxi dress with covered buttons and lattice trimmings paired with show-stopping white lattice hat. Hunter one-piece swimsuit in crimson.Stockists
Arawak Surf Boutiques
Nanny Cay & Sopers Hole, Tortola
Spanish Town & Leverick Bay, Virgin Gorda 284-494-5240 arawakvi.com
Beach House
Rosewood Little Dix, Virgin Gorda 284-852-5500
@beachhousevg
Beautiful By Jasanay Village Cay, Road Town 284-443-7000 beautifulbyjasanay.com
BVI E-FOILS & Deep Bay
Watersports
Oil Nut Bay Marina Village, Virgin Gorda 284-542-7484 bviefoils.com
HiHo
Moorings Marina, Road Town 284-494-0337
HiHo at House, Wickhams Cay II, Road Town go-hiho.com
House Wickhams Cay II, Road Town 284-494-1920 housebvi.com
La Boutique
Cyril B. Romney Pier Park, Road Town 284-443-9944 @la_boutique_bvi
Latitude 18˚
Romasco Building, Road Town & Myett’s, Cane Garden Bay 284-494-7807 latitude18.com
Luna Boutique
Oil Nut Bay Marina Village, Virgin Gorda 284-494-5240
@lunaboutiquebvi
NAMI Resort & Swim
Romasco Building, Road Town 284-496-8989 namibvi.com
Taino Boutique
Cyril B. Romney Pier Park, Road Town 284-443-0012 tainoboutiques.com
Trèfle 284-440-3006 trefledesigns.com @trefledesigns