Cocktails With…
Designer Carly Cushnie (of Cushnie et Ochs) is on The Rock catching up with big sis Leisha Wong and her hubby Brett; here’s what she has to say in-between sips of Moët.
What’s your favourite cocktail?
Champagne is always on the top of my list, but if not I will have a Grey Goose and soda. And when in Jamaica, rum and coconut water.
How has your vacation to The Rock for the holidays been so far?
It has been great, as per usual. I have been spending time with my sister Leisha and been going to parties and having fun. I went to the Maiden Cay party the other day and had a blast, that party is like no other.
Socialite or homebody?
I guess socialite. But I just moved into a new apartment in Manhattan, so I plan to be spending a lot of time there when I get back.
Flats or stilettos?
In Jamaica flats, and in New York stilettos. Flats in Jamaica because, well, there are a lot of hills, grass and mud at times. Plus it’s kind of nice to give my feet a vacation with flats while I am here.
How would you describe yourself?
Outgoing, ambitious, easygoing and friendly.
What’s your style?
My style reflects a lot of what I do in my life. I wear a lot of black. Clean lines. Nothing too fussy or complicated, but definitely sophisticated.
What’s in your handbag/clutch?
To be honest I don’t carry a bag in Jamaica. Whatever I need to carry with me when I am out, like my wallet, BlackBerry and lipgloss, I just give to my brother-in-law Brett. It’s what he’s here for (laughs).
Who does your hair?
I wear my hair natural and it’s pretty easy to maintain, but for my cuts I go to Eric at Spree in NY and Mary-Lou at Panyc colours my hair.
Who does your nails?
I rarely do my nails because my job is hands on, but when I do I go to Spa Belle in Soho because it’s open until late and fits in with my hectic schedule.
What perfume are you spraying?
Lanvin Rumeur. I have been wearing it for a long time and just came across it one day at Sachs.
TV or a good book?
TV. I love Dexter and Gossip Girl.
You’re a designer, what’s the best thing about pursuing your passion?
My job is great because I get to go to work with my best friend and designing partner Michelle. Designing allows me to express my creativity and give my own point of view through a collection. And I should also add that it’s good that I get to make my own hours and be my own boss.
What’s your obsession?
Well, I just moved into a new apartment so I have been indulging in furniture shopping and decorating the apartment.
What’s in your car stereo?
I can’t drive so I take cabs or the subway.
What’s on your iPod then?
A little bit of everything. Jay-Z, Hot Chip, Lady Gaga, dancehall and soca.
What’s your idea of the perfect man?
(Pauses) He should have a sense of humour, be ambitious, sensitive, (laughs) and taller than me in heels.
What turns you off?
Arrogance and selfishness.
What’s your best character trait?
My intuitiveness. My friends tell me I am always right about people.
What’s your worst?
I have no patience whatsoever.
What are your current projects?
Right now I am working on my next show which is slated for February 11, so things will be hectic for me when I get back. Also, Full Frontal Fashion and the Sundance Channel are filming a documentary on top 10 new designers, which my partner Michelle and I will be a part of. The documentary will be shown during fashion week on the Sundance Channel.
What’s your new year’s resolution?
To get back in the gym. I love to eat.
And 10 years from now where do you see Carly Cushnie?
Hopefully still happy and healthy and growing successfully. For the company I hope for an established and recognised name for the brand.