Grenada’s Creative Renaissance: How a ‘Spice Island’ is Building a New Luxury Model
Forget the outdated image of Caribbean economies solely reliant on tourism. Grenada is proving that cultural and economic sovereignty is within reach, and it’s doing so by becoming a surprising epicenter for sustainable luxury and Black creative innovation. The island isn’t just exporting nutmeg anymore; it’s exporting a blueprint for a future where heritage, craftsmanship, and global standards converge.
From Personal Vision to National Impact
The catalyst for this shift is Shannen-Kaylia Henry, founder of the Council on Sustainable Fashion & Design of Grenada (CSFDG). What began as a desire to see locally-made products showcased in Grenada’s luxury hotels has blossomed into a comprehensive ecosystem supporting Caribbean designers. CSFDG isn’t simply about aesthetics; it’s about rewriting the narrative around Caribbean creativity and establishing a viable, sustainable industry.
The Kaylia Couturier Program: Cultivating a New Generation
Central to CSFDG’s success is the Kaylia Couturier Program, a high-fashion skills training initiative backed by the Fashion Impact Fund. This isn’t just basic sewing; it’s intensive instruction in patternmaking, branding, and design, led by industry experts like Cuban designer Alejandro Barzaga. The program’s recent cohort produced stunning three-piece collections utilizing deadstock Italian fabrics and even incorporating Swarovski crystals – a testament to the program’s commitment to quality and sustainability.
This focus on sustainable fashion isn’t accidental. The program directly addresses the environmental impact of the fashion industry, a sector increasingly under scrutiny. By utilizing deadstock materials, CSFDG minimizes waste and promotes a circular economy, aligning with growing consumer demand for ethical and responsible brands.
Beyond Couture: A Holistic Approach to Design
The impact extends beyond high fashion. The CSFDG showcase featured a diverse range of Grenadian and Caribbean talent, including resort wear by Cocoberry Grenada, swimwear by Bahamas Mamma Swim, crochet work by Threaded by Siren, and professional suiting by designers catering to women across the islands. Jewelry designers representing the diaspora, like Ayana B Joy and Zulekha Designs, further highlighted the global reach of Grenadian creativity.
Shannen-Kaylia herself is challenging conventional aesthetics, presenting alternatives to traditional Carnival costumes that blend heritage with couture craftsmanship. This demonstrates a commitment to preserving cultural identity while simultaneously elevating it to a global luxury standard. The 2025 Hub’s theme, “Oceans & Essence,” further underscores this connection, positioning Grenada as a “Big Ocean State” deeply invested in ocean health and sustainability.
The Rise of ‘Slow Luxury’ and Local Sourcing
CSFDG’s initiatives – including Grenada’s first boutique hotel stocked exclusively with local products and a pop-up shop partnership with Silversands Beach House – are driving a shift towards “slow luxury.” This model prioritizes quality, craftsmanship, and local sourcing over mass production and fleeting trends. It’s a direct response to the growing consumer desire for authenticity and transparency in the products they purchase.
This approach isn’t limited to fashion. The success of CSFDG demonstrates the potential for applying similar principles to other creative industries in the Caribbean, from art and music to culinary arts and design. It’s about building a diversified economy rooted in local talent and cultural heritage.
A Model for the Caribbean and Beyond
As Sheena Butler-Young of The Business of Fashion aptly noted, Grenada is becoming a “testing ground for innovation.” The island’s success demonstrates that smaller markets, often overlooked by the global fashion industry, can thrive by connecting heritage craftsmanship with global sustainability standards. This model is particularly relevant for other Caribbean nations seeking to diversify their economies and empower local creatives.
The implications extend far beyond the Caribbean. CSFDG’s work offers a valuable lesson for Black creative economies worldwide: claiming a seat at the luxury table requires not just talent, but also infrastructure, visibility, and a commitment to preserving cultural identity. This is about building a future where creativity is a driver of economic empowerment and social change.
The future of luxury isn’t just about exclusivity; it’s about impact. Grenada is proving that a small island nation can lead the way in building a more sustainable, equitable, and culturally rich global fashion landscape. What are your predictions for the future of sustainable luxury in emerging markets? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
