Entertainment
“Times Square Goes Tropical: Islander Swim Collection’s Stunning NYC Billboard
The Islander Swim Collection made a bold statement yesterday, February 13, lighting up a Times Square billboard with its signature Caribbean luxury. More than just a fashion moment, this feature put the British Virgin Islands on the global stage, blending high-end design with the rich culture and beauty of the Caribbean.
Displayed at 1560 Broadway in the heart of Times Square, the ad ran every hour for a full 24-hour period, ensuring that thousands of visitors, fashion enthusiasts, and industry insiders saw the brand’s designs in one of the busiest locations in the world. This milestone marks a major step in the brand’s journey to international recognition.
The timing of the Times Square debut was no coincidence. “It was perfectly timed to catch the New York Fashion Week audience,” Andrea Wilson the visionary behind the brand revealed. “This is one of the most important weeks in the fashion world, and having Islander Swim Collection on display at such a high-profile moment is a strategic move to introduce the brand to industry leaders, buyers, and fashion enthusiasts from around the globe.”
The feature highlighted breathtaking images of models from the British Virgin Islands, including Ariella Oliver, crowned Miss Junior BVI 2023. Oliver was photographed wearing pieces from the latest collection Eruption, at the Islander Swim Collection store at Hannah’s Bay Marina. Meanwhile, Stacey-Ann Bob and Kiami Frett showcased designs from the Islander Wave Collection, featuring sleek rashguards, in a captivating beachside shoot by Kelvin Titley at Dawson Beach, Beef Island.
The Times Square showcase also a photoshoot at La Casa del Camino in California during OC Fashion Week, where the Eruption collection’s elegance was complemented by men’s swimwear designs from Luciano Muller.
The Islander Swim Collection is already familiar with New York’s fashion scene. The brand’s pieces were previously available for sale at Flying Solo, a luxury boutique on West Broadway, solidifying its presence in the city’s high-end fashion landscape.
Wilson expressed her excitement about this milestone. “I consider the Islander Swim Collection a luxury swimsuit and resort wear brand of the Caribbean. However, for 2025, I’m focused on taking the brand to the next level—solidifying my name internationally. This year is all about expanding into new destinations while continuing to represent the British Virgin Islands with pride,” Wilson stated.
She further emphasised the importance of the brand’s global outreach. “Having our designs displayed in Times Square is a dream come true. It’s more than just fashion—it’s about sharing the vibrancy, resilience, and elegance of the Caribbean lifestyle with the world.” Wilson also hinted at future projects, including expanding into high-end retail markets and collaborations with international stylists.
“I’ve already signed the contract to do a full simultaneous campaign not only in Times Square, but also in Las Vegas, LA, and Miami, 2025 is going to be Epic!” she added, signalling even bigger moves for the Islander Swim Collection.
Entertainment
Caribbean Baking Awards to Stream Live on JTV – Watch the Region’s Best Bakers Compete
Some of the best bakers from across the Caribbean are gearing up for the Caribbean Baking Awards (CBA), a two-day event celebrating creativity, skill, and the flavours that make Caribbean baking unique. The competition will be streamed live on Jahphix Television (JTV), so viewers from across the region and beyond can watch the action as it happens.
Bakers from across the Caribbean will go head-to-head in various categories, putting their skills to the test in front of expert judges. The competition will feature teams from:
- Virgin Islands (US) – Team Hibiscus Sweets
- Trinidad and Tobago – Team Trini Cakes Revellers & Team Flavour Masters Possé
- Jamaica – Team Sweet Success & Team The Dynamic Duo
- Antigua and Barbuda – Team The Glass Jar & Team Sweet Art 268
- Virgin Islands (BVI) – Team Bombshell
- Dominica – Team Donmnik Dou
- Guyana – Team Sweet Secrets
- Barbados – Team Bimstars
- Saint Lucia – Team Fruit Boss
The event takes place on February 21-22, featuring live baking, expert judging, and special guest appearances. Chef Kareem Brooks from Saint Martin will be one of the judges, while hosts Julie Mango and Ricky “Daphox” Bertie will keep the energy high throughout the competition. The celebration will wrap up with an After Party on February 22, featuring a live performance by Onyan and the 3 Cylinder.
Viewers can watch live on JTV and be part of the excitement as bakers compete for top honours.
Tickets to attend in person are $10. Secure yours today and don’t miss out!
For more details and to watch the live stream, visit https://tinyurl.com/CBAwithJTVchannel55
Lesley and Lestene Maduro of LSL Bakery in Virgin Gorda will be among the bakers competing at the Caribbean Baking Awards, set to take place in the British Virgin Islands.
LSL Bakery, a well-known establishment in Virgin Gorda, has been serving pastries, cakes, and other baked goods for years. Founded as a family business, it has grown into a recognised name in the local culinary scene.
The Caribbean Baking Awards bring together top bakers from across the region, with teams representing the British Virgin Islands, the US Virgin Islands, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Barbados, and Guyana. The competition includes categories such as Best Buttercream Cake, Rising Star, Cake Hero, and Best Cupcakes.
The awards ceremony will culminate in the Masquerade Awards Gala Dinner on Saturday, 22 February, at 5:00 PM at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Road Town, Tortola.
The event will bring together bakers, industry professionals, and guests to celebrate Caribbean culinary craftsmanship.
Voting for the awards opened on 7 September 2024, allowing the public to support their favourite bakers.
The event will also be streamed live on Jahphix Television (JTV).
Unable to attend the event in person? Enjoy the two-day action by securing your tickets for just $10. Click the link below to purchase.
St. Lucian pastry chef Ronald Estephane, the head of Fruit Boss, will participate in the upcoming Caribbean Baking Awards.
Estephane, known for his fruit carvings and pastry designs, previously won the title of Pastry Chef of the Year at the 2024 Caribbean Baking Awards. His work focuses on transforming fruit into edible art, earning recognition within the Caribbean culinary industry.
The event is scheduled for February 21-22, at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, bringing together bakers and pastry chefs from across the region.
This year’s competition will feature participants competing under the theme “Rum Fun.” The event will also include the “Ultimate Bake-Off: Celebrity Grudge Match – BVI Artists Edition,” where local musicians Boss, Jugo and Brent Hoyte will compete in a baking challenge.
The Caribbean Baking Awards continues to recognize professionals in the region’s culinary industry, highlighting innovation and craftsmanship in baking and pastry arts.
Caribbean Baking Awards to Stream Live on JTV – Watch the Region’s Best Bakers Compete
Lesley and Lestene Maduro Represent the BVI at Caribbean Baking Awards
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