Sèven Questions with Jerrick Gray on launching an accessories brand infused with cultural influences and technical expertise
Welcome back to the SèveN! This week we feature Jerrick Gray, the designer behind the freshly launched accessories brand Jemerie St. Croix.
Freshly launched brand Jeremie St.Croix emerges as a new voice in accessories —one that refuses to compromise on craftsmanship, material innovation, or individuality. Founded by Jerrick Gray, a designer with a deep-rooted background in manufacturing and a passion for statement-making design, the brand is redefining contemporary luxury with rich textures, unconventional silhouettes, and meticulous attention to detail. From his Caribbean heritage to his global journey through fashion capitals like London and New York, the brand’s founder infuses his creations with a vibrant mix of cultural influences and technical expertise. In this exclusive interview, he shares the story behind Jeremie St.Croix, the artistry behind each material, and the unapologetic, boundary-pushing spirit of the JSC woman.
First of all, congratulations on the launch of your own label! Can you share what led to the creation of Jeremie St.Croix?
As a consumer, I had noticed a decline in the craftsmanship of products in the market - even at legacy brands. I felt there was a significant gap between the price of products and their durability, especially in the handbags and accessories category. When the pandemic hit, it gave me the time to think about what I wanted to do next. I knew I wanted to challenge myself professionally and creatively. With over two decades of experience in design and manufacturing it was time to embark on a new adventure with a stringent emphasis on materials, quality and bold design. Launching Jeremie St.Croix was an outlet for me to create a brand where silhouettes are bold and non-conformist, colors are rich and surprising, and details beg for a closer look. For me it was about creating a luxurious experience down to the unboxing of my product. Above all, I'm an optimist and began this journey in the pursuit of creating a brand that offers the top-tier quality and fresh design.
Is it an eponymous brand? What’s the story behind the name "Jeremie St. Croix"?
The name is fictitious. “Jeremie” is a play on my middle name Jermaine. “St.Croix” pays homage to my mother’s motherland, St. Croix of the US Virgin Islands. I believe as creatives we offer a piece of ourselves with every creation. They say performers leave their essence on stage—for me, I’m infusing myself in every bag I design.
Jemerie St.Croix designs presented in Singapore You have Caribbean roots, grew up in Miami, and have lived in New York, London, and now Hong Kong. That’s an incredible cultural journey! Have these diverse influences shaped your inspiration and creative process?
Yes absolutely! I think, for all creatives, the influences we were exposed to seep into our designs. My designs are the sum of my experiences in a way I find really beautiful and liberating. Growing up in Miami with Caribbean heritage has definitely influenced me. I take inspiration in our music, entertainment, and nightlife. We embrace our sensuality and play with color in a really unique way! We love carnivals and parades, specifically the J'ouvert carnival. Traditionally, the celebration involves calypso/soca bands and their followers dancing through the streets in flamboyant costumes with elaborate embellishments. You can see this reflected in the colorways and treatment of the leather I use. I also lived in New York and London, which refined my sense of style and fuelled my quirkiness and experimental approach to design. Especially in London, it was all about freedom of expression. Now living in South East Asia, I’ve been exposed to new colors and embellishments, especially embroideries by the most skilful artisans. In Hong Kong, craftsmanship is really a driving force for the luxury consumer’s choice. Bags in particular are seen as investments and are presented as works of art. Life is a journey and mine has provided a wealth of inspiration for Jeremie St.Croix.
Growing up in Miami with Caribbean heritage has definitely influenced me. I take inspiration in our music, entertainment, and nightlife. We embrace our sensuality and play with color in a really unique way!
You come from a production background, which is quite rare. How has that influenced your approach to design?
It’s a strong advantage! I always go back to my foundation in manufacturing—understanding the end use of a product and how it holds value over time shapes my approach when building a collection. Early in my career, I developed the ability to commercialize conceptual designs in a way that makes them viable for production. Working with global brands and retailers gave me insight into what consumers consistently look for across different markets—functionality and durability.
That thinking is embedded in our designs. Our detachable straps have rotatable clasps, allowing them to be paired with multiple styles or even worn as a waist belt. Our protective metal feet are engraved, adding both function and detail. Durability is a priority, from structured handles that maintain their shape to reinforced bag bases that prevent collapse. Every element is designed with longevity in mind.
Your bags are all made of leather, yet each has a unique texture and finish. How did you develop the techniques that allow you to create such distinct effects?
All of our products go through a rigorous wear-and-tear review to identify the best finish for long-lasting wear. The Icy collection is made with a signature technique we developed in house. This material was also the most challenging to develop. I wanted to create a hybrid of textiles in leather form. After a year of R&D, we perfected the formula for our signature hybrid leather that's long-lasting and low-maintenance. We identified the best thickness for the cowhide to which we apply the glitter film, and then bond the patent film that acts as a protective cover. Temperature settings play a crucial part in creating this “hybrid leather”. The magic happens when a light source hits the bag: the effect is like a mobile installation of diamonds on the move - hence the name “Icy”. It's remarkably fabulous in its lane.
Leathers treatments for the Icy, Crocodile, and Metallic collections After a year of R&D, we perfected the formula for our signature hybrid leather that's long-lasting and low-maintenance.
The Crocodile Collection is made of embossed cowhide leather. We collaborate closely with our factory and leather suppliers to achieve the appropriate thickness and scale-to- ratio in proportion to our bags. This was critical to having the scale repeat in proportion with each panel.
For the Dual-Tone we first achieve the base color, and then the contrast color is manually applied with precision.
The Metallic Collection was achieved with a subtle distressed leather feel because who doesn't love a galactic moment?!
Each bag carries a female name - do they hold a special significance?
The names of the bags are actually an homage to black supermodels who have been instrumental in paving the way for a new generation of black creatives in our industry. I’ve named bags after Naomi Campbell, Beverly Johnson, Marie Borges, and Leomie Anderson.
Naomie Campbell with Naomie Icy Lime, Beverly Johnson with Beverly Croc Black, Marie Borges with Marie Taupe Croc, Leomie Anderson with Icy Champagne That’s such a beautiful tribute! How would you define the “Jeremie St. Croix” woman and is there anyone that you'd love to dress?
The JSC girl embodies the energy and charisma of a socialite and the elegance of the women who surrounded me growing up. She is unapologetically confident, resilient, bold, driven, independent, alluring, and dances to the beat of her drum. A testament to my mother, my muse, who migrated to Miami from the Virgin Islands as a child. The pieces are for strong, charismatic women who break barriers and defy odds. My bucket list is long, but here are a few women I’d love to dress: Doechii, JT from the City Girls, Naomi Campbell, The Knowles-Carters, Megan the Stallion, Cardi B, Coco Jones, Olivia Dean, Taraji P. Henson, Karen Pitman, Lori Harvey, Grace Byers, Lavern Cox, Ashley Park, Lalisa Manoban, Tyla, and Rita Ora.
A testament to my mother, my muse, who migrated to Miami from the Virgin Islands as a child. The pieces are for strong, charismatic women who break barriers and defy odds.
Jerrick’s mother and muse, Anna Robin We hope you enjoyed our conversation with Jerrick !
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