Ten Questions with Deedre Turner

Jamaican born and Toronto based, Deedre Turner is a stylist creative whose work bridges strategy, identity, and self-expression. Her corporate experience in Human Resources has shaped her ability to understand people, build relationships, navigate complex environments, and think strategically. Drawing inspiration from music, culture, street style, fashion history, and her Jamaican upbringing, she sees personal style as more than simply what we wear. It is about confidence, individuality and how we choose to show up in the world.

I caught up with Deedre for ten questions about personal style, fashion influences, trends and what is currently inspiring her.

Which city or country has had the biggest influence on your creativity, and why?

Kingston, Jamaica. Growing up in Jamaica has had a huge influence on my personal style, my outlook on life and my creative instincts. The music, the landscape, the vibrancy of the people, the language, it all shaped how I see and experience the world. There is a natural boldness and energy to Jamaica that shows up in how I create.

What details do you notice first when looking at someone’s outfit?

The first thing I notice is not an article of clothing, but rather the way they carry themselves in their clothing. Confidence and “how” you are wearing it is the first thing I notice.

If you could style anyone, past or present, who would it be?

I would love the opportunity to dress Rihanna, Shenseea or Lizzo! They each have such distinct personalities and points of view, so there would be a lot to play with creatively.

What is one fashion rule you love breaking?

That certain colours or tones are only to be worn in specific seasons. I wear white all year round.

What is one trend you hope never comes back, and one you think deserves a comeback?

One trend I hope never comes back is oversized white tees to the knee. Let us keep that in the early 2000s, please! One trend that I think deserves a comeback is braids with beads from the ’80s and ’90s. That era had the best trends!

Traditional runway shows or immersive/performance fashion shows? Why?

I like both. There is something clear and uniform about a traditional runway that is comforting. We are primarily here for clothes, but I love theatrics, and I love when a designer allows themselves to create a world in which their designs function and welcomes you into that world. So, both!

Which designer, stylist or fashion icon has influenced you or your work the most?

Designers: Marc Jacobs, Vivienne Westwood, JPG, Mugler, Virgil Abloh

Stylists: Misa Hylton, June Ambrose, Karla Welch. Fashion icons: Tracee Ellis Ross, Rihanna, Kelis, Grace Jones, Gwen Stefani

What is one trend everyone seems to love that you just do not understand?

Micro short lingerie dresses and boots in July! Are you hot? Are you cold? I am so confused! Lol.

If you were not working in fashion, what would you be doing?

I have always been an outgoing right brain/left brain girlie, so I think I would still be doing something corporate, and people centered while also having a creative outlet. I really like that duality, being able to move between the strategic and the creative. I think I would find a way to do both no matter what industry I was in.

What are you currently obsessed with; fashion/style wise?

I am currently obsessed with African designers, the Black goth scene in Jamaica and mermaidcore. Yes, random, but also, if you know me, it makes perfect sense.