London model Courtnie Ashman talks style, reconnecting with local roots
COURTNIE ASHMAN always saw herself as a fashionista. So, it came as no surprise when she strutted her way down the runway of a thriving fashion career. Speaking with The Sunday Gleaner, the London model, who is of Jamaican descent, talked about her style, cultural influences and the journey that led her to reconnecting with her island roots.
“I was always told I should model but didn’t try until I was in my mid 20s. When I was modelling, I got to travel, meet loads of new people and manage my own diary. It was great for my personal development,” she told Sunday Lifestyle.
Working with top brands like Rimmel, Benjamin Benmoyal, Sister Jane and Adelina Rusu, her favourite job to date was doing a campaign for Lelo. “I travelled to Croatia, rode a horse and looked fabulous whilst doing it,” she added with a smile.
She credited her Jamaican mother for nurturing her fashion sense, dressing her in vibrant patterns and hues for just about every occasion, despite having a great deal of black in her own closet.
“I used to go shopping at the local mall with my mum every Thursday and I think that ignited my love of fashion,” Ashman shared, adding, “I had a twig figure and mum always knew where to shop for the best pieces and how to recreate designer looks for less. She was always happy to dress me in colour and patterns. These days, I love wearing oranges, yellows, pinks and reds.”
Noting that her mother still has a big influence on her style today, Ashman considers her a personal stylist of sorts, still selecting looks that go with her aesthetics and body type. “If she sees something she likes for me, she will buy it and Walking into her purpose, the creative Courtnie Ashman has an air of confidence that is unparalleled.
I normally fall in love when I see it. I think she thinks I’m her own personal Barbie doll, but I’m not complaining.” These days, she describes her personal style as bold, bright, fun, sexy and unique. Recalling her life taking a stylish turn at 16 years old, Ashman has since gravitated to brands like Steve Madden, Alexander Wang and Zara as a young adult. “I’m a big fan of Steve Madden for shoes. I think that he always does fun collections that appeal to a wide range of people and you don’t have to break at the bank to look fashionable. For clothing, it’s Alexander Wang. I like his use
of embellishments in pattern and in print. And it’s also quite a modern aesthetic that appeals to me whilst also adhering to be sexy and cool which I like. Then for accessories, I would have to say [a] high-street brand Zara is great for jewellery and bags and is super affordable,” she highlighted.
As her life approached 30 year, the young creative decided that after being away from the island for almost a decade, it was time to return home to celebrate her milestone.
As part of the evolution, Ashman took her artistry to the streets, styling her costume to participate in this year’s Carnival in Jamaica Road March experience.
Explaining that she fell in love with the local designs, the fact that she didn’t have the time to try it on beforehand or make alterations if needs be challenged her to tap into her creative side at home.
Drawing inspiration from my love for bright fun fashion, she opted for orange leopard print and blue. “Orange is my favourite colour and I love a bit of leopard print... .Luckily I’ve been blinging up my clothes and accessories for years, so I knew it was something I could do and I’m happy with what I came up with,” she said, adding that she will most likely restyle it for Notting Hill Carnival back home this summer.
“Carnival was amazing and it was even better to do it with my best friend and my family. It’s nothing like I have ever experienced before. The energy of everyone involved is electric and you can’t help but catch on. The organisation of the events was unparalleled. I’m already planning my return trip for next year,” the first-time reveller revealed.
Bearing a striking resemblance to Grace Jones, Ashman looks up to the legendary Jamaica icon for her sharp haircuts, sharp suits and fierce, cutting-edge fashion. Ashman has styled many outfits after her, even dressed as her for Halloween. “I’ve seen her perform live three times and she gets better every time. She doesn’t care what people think and she’s unapologetically true to herself which is something I think everyone should hope to be.”
The five style essentials trending in Ashman’s closet include suits and co-ords; slogan T-shirts or hoodies; denim of all shapes, styles and colours; jumpsuits and hoop earrings, her go-to accessory.
With her sights set on real estate, her advice to aspiring fashionistas is to try new things and not be afraid to take risks or make mistakes. “Dress in a way that compliments your body type. If you dress in a way that flatters your body, you will exude confidence and also look more luxurious. And remember, trends change but style is forever.”