Mark Anthony Scott living his grandmother’s fashion reality

Mark Anthony Scott, the chief executive officer of Mark Anthony Collection, credits his sojourn into the world of fashion to his grandmother, Ernita Wallace, who had ignited his passion for clothing and fashion through her subtle encouragement.

Eventually, Scott came to realise that fashion was his calling when he relocated from his home in western Jamaica to serve as an apprentice under his uncle, Neville Wallace, a master tailor, who was an integral part of the family’s sewing legacy. Under his uncle’s guidance, he learned the rules and tricks of the trade, which ultimately prepared him for the success he enjoys today.

“I have been working in the field of fashion for over 20 years, 25 years to be exact, and what drew me into fashion was my grandmother,” said Scott.

“My grandmother was the one who forced me to do fashion designing because her son, who is my uncle, is a fashion designer. I referred to him as a master tailor.

“My grandmother thought it would’ve been a great idea for me to learn the family trade by partnering with my uncle.”

Scott has collaborated on projects with reputable corporate brands such as Red Stripe, Johnnie Walker, and Heineken Jamaica.

While, initially, he realised that it would not be easy to make a name for himself, the ambitious Scott was smitten by the desire to create a brand capable of competing with established fast-fashion brands such as Temu and Amazon.

“There are times when I felt like packing up, it’s rough,” admitted Scott.

“A lot of times when I have difficulties, I will reach out to my uncle and he will encourage me, teach me some more stuff and I’ll bounce back from that.”

In reflecting on the journey to where he is today, Scott believes his enduring passion for the craft, which keeps him highly motivated, alongside him travelling and going to different boutiques and stores, is what is keeping him on top of his game.

When I walk into different stores, I touch and feel fabric and I get inspired, I get motivated, I get new ideas, and it reminds me why I love what I do, so even though the environment may be stressful, that love just keeps propelling me,” said Scott. “I think it is the commitment, the love and the passion, that has brought me to this stage, where I am now revered as one of Jamaica‘s best.

“Having good customer service and offering quality products helps as well, and if you run into problems, you have to be able to communicate. You have to know how to handle difficult situations when it arises.”

Having found success in the fashion industry, Scott thinks it would be a good career path for the younger generation. However, he thinks one must have ‘a passion for fashion’ if they hope to succeed.

“My advice is, you must have a passion for what you do, and it’s not just only in the field of fashion, but whatever you do, whatever area of expertise, make sure that you have a love relationship with it,” said Scott, as he continues to flourish as a respected name in Jamaica’s fashion industry.

Tashay East is a final-year student at Northern Caribbean University. She is pursuing communication studies.