Written by Kareem LaTouche
The salt-laced air of Sandy Bay, Hanover, still clings to my memory. Just recently, I was down that way, checking out the breathtaking views from the Mosaic Luxury Villa, and it’s easy to see why Robert Anthony, the man behind the RAAW (Robb Anthony Active Wear) fashion label, calls this coastal gem home. It’s a place that shaped him, a place he still holds dear.
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Sandy Bay Beginnings
Robert’s story isn’t one of instant glamour. “I lived a typical country life,” he tells me, his voice tinged with nostalgia. “We didn’t have much, but we were happy. I would play by the beach, pick fruits and give the type of trouble that kids give.” But even amidst the idyllic backdrop of Sandy Bay, Robert yearned for more. Opportunities were limited, and his creative spirit, his innate sense of style, needed an outlet. During his adolescence, he dabbled in fashion, creating pieces here and there, a seed of ambition planted in fertile ground.
A Cruise to Creativity
In search of a more viable economic route, Robert’s journey took an unexpected turn when he landed a job on a cruise ship. “In my younger years, I used to work in the tourism industry, so I was working on a cruise ship and there I got exposure to Europe.” This was his gateway, a chance to explore the world and witness the diverse make up of European fashion. He immersed himself in new cultures, even living in Switzerland for many years, learning the language and starting a family.
Today, his son Deron, 28, a quiet observer of our interview, beams with pride. It’s his second time in Jamaica, and he’s clearly captivated by his father’s work. “It’s amazing that I get to see my father work and create so many cool pieces,” Deron confesses, his eyes sparkling.
Between takes, father and son slip into fluent Swiss, a testament to Robert’s adaptability and thirst for knowledge. This same drive led him to learn German, a skill he added to his already impressive repertoire.
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Back to Roots, Back to RAAW
In 2003, Robert felt the pull of home, the irresistible urge to return to his Jamaican roots. He came back and in 2004, set up shop in Sandy Bay, selling his own creations. “I came back to Jamaica and set up shop in my home town of Sandy Bay in 2004, where I was selling shirts I created.” But the reality of running a business in a remote location soon set in. “Ideally I wanted to get to Kingston, but, one, I knew the rent was going to be high and two, I never knew anyone there, so I had no connections.” Sales were slow, and the dream of RAAW, Robert Anthony Active Wear, seemed distant. He eventually relocated to Mandeville, a stepping stone on his path to success.
The Hustle is Real
“At first I would do any job in fashion I could get. If someone wanted me to sew ah jeans, I would do it. In the early days it was really hard for me to get paying jobs.” Robert’s dedication is palpable. He points to a worn desk, a silent witness to his struggles. “That is what I used to sleep on,” he says, his voice filled with a mix of pride and humility. “I put a big sponge on it and took my nap. My room had no bed, tv, sofa you name it. It was just about sewing.”
He also pounded the pavement, handing out flyers, relentlessly promoting his business. Finally, a break. Someone saw one of his shirts and placed an order. “I was so excited. I couldn’t do the work on my own, so I had to get someone else. We sewed all night!” That single order ignited a spark. Fashion shows followed, showcasing Robert’s unique designs, and the orders started flowing in. “I have designed clothes for a lot of dancehall acts and tv personalities, so, basically one thing led to another.”
RAAW: A Jamaican Brand with Global Appeal
Today, Robert operates from a small but bustling factory at the Kingston Craft Market. The air hums with the whir of sewing machines, a symphony of creation. Fabrics in vibrant hues and textures spill from shelves, a feast for the senses. Leather, canvas, and colourful prints lie in wait, ready to be transformed into bags, shoes, shirts, dresses – all bearing the distinctive RAAW insignia. “I want to show the world that Jamaica can produce high standard goods that can be showcased on any stage.” He hands me a stylish knapsack, and I’m immediately impressed by the thoughtful design. “This blue lining is to easily identify where the laptop should go and the entire bag is lined, so if anything spills on the inside it is easy to clean,” he explains, his passion evident in every detail. Quality control, he emphasises, is paramount. “Quality control is the hardest aspect as we have to get everything right to the inch, so that every bag can be the same. It’s a tedious task but it is very important.”
From Camouflage to Crossbody Bags
The range of products is impressive: leather and duffle bags emblazoned with the red, green, and gold of the RAAW logo; female overalls in camouflage and floral prints; multi-colour crossbody bags with interchangeable straps. Robert’s creativity knows no bounds. Throughout the interview, Deron watches his father with quiet admiration, constantly offering assistance. Despite his success, Robert hasn’t forgotten his roots. “I can never leave out Sandy Bay,” he says. “I set up a display there every month end, right by the sea.” It’s a testament to his journey, a reminder of where it all began.
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Useful Information about Jamaica
Click to check Jamaica’s Foreign Exchange Rate.
What is the weather like in Jamaica
The climate in Jamaica is very warm, with an annual average of 32 degrees/ 89.6°F. It is usually warm to hot all year round.
What is the time zone in Jamaica
Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5)
Immigration/ Custom Form
Every visitor is required to fill out a C5 form before entering Jamaica
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