Jamaica-born designer Andrew Chuck, the talent behind DesignsbyDru, spoke about his latest line, GEMMA, as he responded to five questions put to him.

1) How did you get started in fashion designing?

I started designing at the age of 15 years old when I just relocated to Florida from Jamaica; mostly for carnival with the longest-standing carnival band in Miami – The Wassi Ones and I garnered over 12-plus years’ experience in carnival. So I was really excited to expand and explore swim and resort wear.

2) Where does your inspiration come from and how did Gemma come about?

During the beginning of COVID, I started a self-discovery journey and on that journey I learned about self healing and I discovered tools and things that made me feel good.

Now on this journey, I discovered that crystals are minerals that hold energy and we as humans are made up of energy. We can exchange energy with the crystal when we work with it.

It was at this moment of discovery that I thought of translating the healing and goodness of crystals and gemstones into wearable healing goodness. Thus Gemma was born, and with the beautiful array of gems I couldn’t resist creating this collection and sharing healing energy through clothing with the world.

3) Do you have plans to widen the range of your designs/offerings. Give us a hint of what that might look like?

Of course! You can expect classic and well functional designed swimsuits and resort wear for all types of people, shapes and sizes. I’ll be exploring new prints, and styles that are unique and that represent the culture well.

Representation is very important for me. I hope to inspire other Caribbean folk that look like me, to step out and go for their dreams.

4) How fulfilling has your career in fashion design been so far?

Honestly, it has been a journey and I’m so elated to have released this collection. We put a lot into making this possible. I’m also proud that I got to shoot my campaign in Jamaica and have all my swimwear made in Jamaica.

It has been a truly fulfilling experience so far!

5) How far do you want to go with DesignsbyDru, and how do you plan to achieve it?

I would like to take my brand as far as it can go, without limits. I love sharing my talents with the world and using it to build confidence and good feelings in others. I’d love to be featured in the most pristine of publications, one possible being Vogue. I plan to do this by empowering others through design, passion, creativity and gratitude.