#173: Martine's Dream (Friday, April 23)

I am unbelievably excited with this week's Good Friday. It has been nearly two years in the making, I alluded to it in Good Friday #163, and now the site is finally here. I can share the work of one of my favorite people with all of you.

Martine's Dream is the creation of a great friend, Debbie (aka Martine). I absolutely love her. Besides the fact that we have a lot in common (Jamaican roots, love of the sun and the arts, etc.), she's just a beautiful human being with a wonderful spirit. Ok, I admit it, when I first saw Debbie's creations I was a little hesitant. Don't get me wrong, I LOVED her clothing...just not for me. I'd never been a fan of prints; I thought they made me look crazy. But Debbie changed my mind, and last year, I wore two of her creations almost everywhere and got an overwhelming number of compliments.

But Deb's not just about creating stuff; if you're short on imagination, she'll also give you ideas on how to wear her
pieces, based on your body type. Our typical conversation goes something like this:

Me: Deb, it looks amazing, but the print...
Deb: ...Is perfect for your skin tone. If you were a shade lighter it wouldn't work.
Me: But I'm bulky around the middle. It won't sit right.
Deb: You need to wear it on your waist, or with a belt...

Her style tips are always on point. So check out the long-awaited Martine's Dream at: www.martinesdream.com (be sure to read her bio!), and if you're in Brooklyn, drop by her store at the Brooklyn Flea on Saturdays. Here's to the children of Ililanga!

Be excellent!