Courtney Washington Designs on Fulton
The Courtney Washington Store has been a staple of Fulton Street for many years. Influenced by his West Indian heritage, Designer Courtney Washington’s collection of lifestyle clothing was conceived and created for the everyday sophisticated modern women, sizes 4-24. From the office, to cocktails, to traveling, the collection is not only fun, but functional and versatile. With a flair for style, and having emigrated from Jamaica herself, Georgia Gayle, Creative Director at the Fort Greene store at 674 Fulton Street (S. Portland), seems the perfect person to bring this clothing line to Fulton Street.
FAB: How long has Courtney Washington been on Fulton Street?
Georgia Gayle: Over sixteen years. Courtney got started designing for his sisters in Jamaica. He studied at Pratt and FIT and has been designing couture for over twenty years.
FAB: How did you get started in the business?
Georgia Gayle: Courtney designed for both men and women; but now focuses on the everyday sophisticated modern day women. He was my father’s tailor. I remember being in high school and following my dad to see Courtney. It was then that I decided I wanted to work in the fashion industry. I started with shipping–executing client orders–then accounts payables and receivables, and then I became his executive assistant. By observing Courtney and his interactions with customers, and by getting a feel for customer needs I became a fashion expert.
I continued to work with him on weekends throughout undergrad and graduate school. Having worked in the traditional corporate environment for a number of years I decided the political games and red tape necessary to succeed was not for me. Thankfully, Courtney presented me with an opportunity to take over the Courtney Washington franchise on Fulton Street.
FAB: So Courtney selected Fulton Street for Courtney Washington, but what keeps you here?
Georgia Gayle: The neighborhood is just what we need for our sophisticated clientele. We’re not a fad store. We’re classy, chic, and timeless.
FAB: What do you like about the area?
Georgia Gayle: I love the diversity and cultural aspects of Fulton Street. Walking down Fulton, you can experience just about anything. Every step of the way you experience something different, unpretentious, flavorful.
FAB: What would you recommend to other businesses in the area to help them succeed?
Georgia Gayle: Customer service is key. At Courtney Washington, it is essential that every customer feels important and appreciated. Furthermore, we want our customers to feel like they are at home–like our store is their own giant closet.
People value sincerity. It creates a good feeling, loyalty and trust. Customers are very sensitive and they always know whether or not you really care about them. Take the time to thank every customer; the simple acknowledgements can go a long way. If you do that, and you have a good product, you can succeed on Fulton Street.
FAB: What would you like for the community to know about Courtney Washington?
Georgia Gayle: We enjoy giving back to the community. We mentor local adolescents. We participate in programs that show young adults different aspects of the fashion industry and introduce them to people in other industries. We educate on how to write business plans and give them other tools to aid with becoming entrepreneurs. And when local organizations are looking for space to hold events, we’re more than happy to accommodate.
Mostly, it’s just extremely important for us to be a part of the community, and we are always looking for new ways to connect.
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Courtney Washington Fashion Studio
674 Fulton Street (between S. Portland and S. Elliott Place)
Fort Greene, Brookyn
