This feature is in our Oct. "Style" Issue. Click here to subscribe.

Fe Noel opened her store during Caribbean Heritage Month in June 2023. PHOTO BY ITAYSHA JORDAN

Brooklyn-based, Grenada-born designer Felisha “Fe” Noel continues to celebrate her heritage with a new shop in Brooklyn’s historic Little Caribbean neighborhood. She discusses the significance behind the store with EDITION below.

I’d love for you to describe how your clothing makes customers feel, as the vibrant prints are a reflection of our vivid and rich Caribbean cultures.

I think to get a real answer for that we might have to ask my customers, but my intention is to make customers feel seen. I want the clothes to give my woman the confidence to take up as much space as she desires.

Inside the Fe Noel Little Caribbean experiential boutique PHOTO COURTESY OF FE NOEL

“MY INTENTION IS TO MAKE CUSTOMERS FEEL SEEN.” –FE NOEL

Most designers would flock to the city to open a brick-and-mortar store, but I appreciate that you intentionally chose Brooklyn’s Little Caribbean. Can you discuss the significance of having your shop in that location?

I chose Brooklyn’s Little Caribbean as my first store location because I’m committed to safeguarding Caribbean artisanship, neighborhoods and heritage. I was raised here, started my business here, and I knew in my heart this was the right place. Although not a physical store, Fe Noel has a presence in Manhattan with our offices and ‘ by appointment only’ showroom being based there. Our time will come to open a brick-and-mortar there as well, but for now, meet us in Flatbush!

Reception by Fe Noel spring/summer 2023 runway collection Puzzle chiffon dress PHOTO BY HAO ZENG FOR FE NOEL

What are some of your favorite places to eat or visit while in Little Caribbean?

Places like Labay Market for coconut water and fresh produce, Allan’s Bakery for the bread and currant rolls, Veggies for my juices and smoothies, Aunts et Uncles for brunch, Rogers Garden to dance and hang—just to name a few, but so many others.

What’s your favorite way to unwind when visiting Grenada?

It’s always the beach for me. I land and immediately head to go hug my grandmother. She’s usually at her restaurant, and then it’s straight to the beach.

Reception by Fe Noel spring/summer 2023 runway collection Anansa cage gown. PHOTO BY HAO ZENG FOR FE NOEL

For those who may be unfamiliar with Grenada, how do you choose to celebrate your culture through your designs?

By creating original prints inspired by the island’s rich history and traditions while using the right mix of textiles and tones. One of my most popular prints is of a nutmeg, which is Grenada’s main spice export. I a lso develop silhouettes that have movement and f low, simulating the carefree island breeze. Dropped shoulders nod to a relaxed, slower pace, and accentuated pant hems made with airy fabric are all reminiscent of the magnetic spirit of my beautiful island and its people.

Can you discuss the importance of having a reliable community among Black designers in an inclusive fashion industry?

The importance is the power in numbers. The larger the community, the more knowledge and resources [become] available. ‘Each one teach one’ is the best way for us to win.

“THE IMPORTANCE IS THE POWER IN NUMBERS. THE LARGER THE COMMUNITY, THE MORE KNOWLEDGE AND RESOURCES [BECOME] AVAILABLE.” –FE NOEL

The designer wants to continue expanding her clothing and lifestyle offerings. PHOTO BY SUSAN BOWLUS

What else can the industry do to support Black designers and Black-owned businesses?

Intentional and continuous support. Support comes in many forms, but one of those forms must be to continue spending your dollars with Black-owned businesses across all industries.

Your brand is celebrating its 10th anniversary. What are some of the biggest business lessons you’ve learned thus far?

1)Feel the fear and uncertainty and do it anyway. 2) When you build it, they will absolutely come. And I have a third one: Always, always be a student.