If you want to look and feel sexy on the beach, slip into one of designer Janel Jolly’s swimsuits.

The latest line of Jae Jolly swimwear graced the stage at 2018’s Yello-sponsored Collection MoDA runway. You’re sure to find many pieces to add to your wish list.

We stepped into the wardrobe with this talented designer.

How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style honestly depends on my mood. I can be plain Jane when I’m super busy with work and would rather be in something comfortable and easy. However, I do love dressing up, and when I do I gravitate towards bold, unique looks that make an effortless statement.

What’s your design aesthetic?

Vibrant, easy, flowing with a mixture of different colours, textures and patterns.

What was the process like moving your designs from concept to business?

I started making unique outfits for myself when I was in high school. In my early 20s, someone asked a mutual friend of ours where I shopped because she’d been eyeing my outfits. When she found out I made them she asked me to make her one the embellished shirts I wore. She came back and told me about all the great compliments she received. I then started making outfits for her friends which expanded pretty quickly to friends-of-friends, and in 2010 I debuted “Jae Jolly” at Caribbean Fashion Week.

Tell me about your creative process, where do you draw your inspiration from? When are you at your most creative?

Inspiration can come from anywhere or anything but mostly I’m inspired by things of nature. Most of my collections were inspired by places around the world I’d like to travel to like Morocco, Peru, and Brazil.

My creative process is a bit different from others, instead of starting with sketching then getting fabrics, I first source the fabrics then lay them out to inspire my designs. Listening to music or a specific song while working on the collection usually helps set the tone as well. I’m most creative in a relaxed, quiet environment. I spent a lot of time sketching at Strawberry Hill while working on this current collection.

What sets Jae Jolly swimwear apart?

The intricate detailing and mixing of different colours, patterns, and textures.

How do you want a woman to feel wearing one of your designs?

Sexy, confident and, most importantly comfortable. I try to create most of my designs with a certain ease that any body type can feel comfortable in.

Who are your style icons?

Solange Knowles for her unique eclectic vibe, Bianca Jagger for her classic elegant looks in the 70s and Grace Jones for her loud edgy style. She also bought a few of my pieces!

What’s your favourite style era?

The 70s. The birth of the indifferent, anti-conformist casual chic approach.

How important is an event like Collection MoDA for the local fashion community?

It’s very important as it helps with the discovery of new and emerging designers. One of the best attributes of the event is the MoDA Market which allows designers to showcase and retail products that was presented on the runway.

Can you tell me a little about the designs you’ll be showing at the event? What can people look forward to?

The designs are inspired by the colourful array of colonial buildings and the Palenqueras in Cartagena, Colombia. Can’t say too much about it but you can look forward to an Afro-Latin tropical-inspired collection.

Check out Janel’s fabulous Jae Jolly collection on her Instagram page.