La Pluma Negra -
Capturing the essence of Jamaica

If you could name one unpretentious clothing item in your wardrobe, the t-shirt would be high on the list. Wendy Lee Richards, owner of the brand La Pluma Negra, has taken the T-shirt's identity of understated practicality and has given it a new distinctiveness that merges Jamaican culture and sophistication with comfortable quality.

A small gap in the market and statements from discontented friends about not being able to find Jamaican tops that they could wear resulted in the birth of La Pluma Negra. It has since provided a line of clothing that would not automatically be associated with the tourism trade.

The typical Jamaican T-shirt is big, with the powerful and well-loved brand Jamaica prominently displayed. In some cases, however, this has led to some clothing lines that are exaggerated, loud, garish and explicit. They fail to capture the essence of Jamaica that both locals and visitors can appreciate.

Wendy Lee Richards explained that she wanted that Jamaican-ness in the name of her brand La Pluma Negra (which means The Black Feather) and even though she lucked out in claiming the name in English, this has not turned out to be a negative at all. She reasoned that the Spanish name not only acknowledges the Spanish heritage of Jamaica but adds an exotic chic when one states, "I'm wearing La Pluma Negra".

Wendy pointed out that the brand's popularity lies in its "quality and not having any controversial designs…keeping it clean and putting ideas on high quality garments".

They cater for everyone at home and abroad, boasting an online store at www.plumanegra.com, where anyone can buy from their line of T-shirts, hoodies and sweat suits for men and women. They also have their own special line for children called "Tickles".

Buyers can also look out for button down shirts for men as well as women. The line will also extend to La Pluma Negra accessories with locally branded bags and an urban line called "Black Patch".

So far, La Pluma Negra has achieved success in projecting the desired image of the owner. The brand conjures up images of palm trees, exotic birds and sipping tropical drinks as you take it easy in your La Pluma Negra outfit.

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