Similar to their counterparts on the international scene, reggae and dancehall performers are lining up to get in on endorsements, as far as designer wear is concerned.
Celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Brandy, Tyrese, Shemar Moore, LL Cool J, Master P and Britney Spears have all endorsed various designer clothing lines. Locally, deejay Harry Toddler has donned the Tommy Hilfiger line, while the members of TOK have created a buzz with their Meoshe outfits.
Cooyah Designs, which is the brainchild of Homer Bair and his partner Susan Kreitman, was established in 1987. Consisting of mainly causal designs, Cooyah recently opened its very first outlet at 96 Hope Road in Kingston, Jamaica, right across from Campion College.
Local entertainers including Capleton, Bounty Killer, Freddie McGregor and Kymani Marley, are among the reggae and dancehall acts who are figured into Cooyah’s client roster. “Apart from local artistes, we also have Maxwell, Wyclef Jean and Whitney Houston, who have endorsed our products over the years,” Bair said recently. Staff members from Nike and HBO offices in the US, as well as Beaches, Marriott and Sandals chain of hotels are also included on Cooyah’s client roster.
Both avid reggae fans, Homer and Susan opened their retail stores in South Beach, Florida, Downtown Hollywood and across the Caribbean.
Homer who has significant experience in the T-shirt designing business is a graduate of the School of Visual Arts in New York. He envisioned sharing his art with the rest of the world, so he decided to do that through manufacturing his designs on clothing. His designs convey messages that people can relate to.
Susan has extensive retail experience. Prior to making the connection with Homer, she traveled throughout the US as a special events coordinator. Her professional background includes a strong emphasis on client relationships.
Cooyah’s 100% cotton designs, target men, women, and children alike. The urban clothing line ranges from T-shirts and tank tops, to sweaters, sweatshirts, short sets, dresses, bandannas, caps and hats.
The innovative designs bring about a cultural awareness, as it not only incorporates the Rastafarian art, but all aspects of the total Jamaican experience.
For more details on Cooyah’s roots wear, visit their website at www.cooyah.com.