Spotlight: Inside Karen Marley’s Fabulous Life

All too often, the lives of iconic figures provokes a curiosity in their kin almost as much as the figures themselves, especially if they follow in their parents’ footsteps. Take for instance famous babies- Nicole Richie, Sean Lennon (son of John Lennon & Yoko Ono), Zoe Kravitz (daughter of Lenny Kravitz & Lisa Bonet), and countless others who are all too familiar with the daunting reality of the public eye. But there are some celeb-kiddies– no matter how famous or even iconic their ancestors were– who have kept far away from the limelight. Meet Karen Marley, daughter of the late reggae music icon Bob Marley. Growing up among her many brothers (Damien, Ziggy, Rohan, Steve, Julian, Kymani, Robert) and sister (Cedella) everyday was about music. While all her siblings were following in their father’s footsteps pursuing careers in music, Karen went a different route, drawn to the beauty of design.

Part of Ms. Marley's stellar shoe collection

She started an interior design business and store in Jamaica, offering creative services and consulting. Later, she migrated to London where she attended Vidal Sassoon to amplify her love for chic aesthetics– a move that would ironically lead her to dabble in property development. In more recent years, she has worked with Cedella as assistant designer for Catch a Fire. Karen also represents the Marley legacy within various business dealings– Marley Coffee, House of Marley, and Cedella Marley Design. CMD is busy working with the Jamaican Olympic team designing the ceremony, podium and on-track uniforms for Puma, an absolute honor for the fledgling business. The next step for this Marley is a joint venture with good friend, Monique Aquino (AKA Dillon Delacroix)- the uber cute blogger we interviewed here.

Marley– who radiates her father’s unforgettable smile to a tee– invited us over to her gorgeous serene home to gab about things she loves, hands-on projects she is currently involved in, savvy shopping, and other insightful tidbits into her life. We couldn’t help but go through her fabulous wardrobe– which had us dying, reviving us back to life, and dying again. Yes people, it is that good!

What is the best thing about being a Marley? KM: It’s just being associated with such an iconic legend whose positive vibrations have continued for so long and still will continue. His messages have always been about peace and love, taking care of our youth and taking care of our mother earth even before the green movement was “cool” per se. Also, the fact that we are such a large tight-knit family. After my dad passed on, I went to live with my stepmom Rita Marley when I was eight-years-old, and she is and has been such a tower of strength and love and has always been a powerful influence on me. Love our family unit.

You pursued design and beauty versus music like the rest of your family, what is it that sparked that? KM: Well, first of all I can’t sing so that’s kind of a drawback!! I think our family is such an eclectic artistic bunch, it just seemed natural. But if I had to really think about it, I guess it started when I was really young and still living with my great grand parents and I would constantly bug them to help me move furniture around. Also, my great grandmother had a sewing machine and I’d always sit with her as she did her thing and ask her to make stuff for me. From there, I sort of just developed an eye for design, fabrics, furniture (old or new), aesthetics, color and it’s effects on mood. We then decided to open a design store that we added to the interior design business.

We hear you are opening a boutique with Ms. Dillon Delacroix of Buttons and Bows LA..tell us how that venture came about.

KM: Monique and I met a few years ago and one of our first conversations was about what we wanted to do in the future and we both had the same idea. We both wanted to own a store. It took a minute to manifest, but everything in good time. I feel like this is the perfect time. It’ll be a resale venture, but we will also have a buying counter.

What other projects are you currently working on?

KM: Well, right now I work for my sister Cedella of Cedella Marley Designs. We are currently collaborating with Puma to design for the Jamaica Olympic team for 2012. We had to do “on-track” which is what they will wear in competition, “podium” which they’ll wear to collect their medals, and “ceremony”, worn on the opening day before the actual competition starts. We’re really excited about this, we had our first fittings a couple weeks ago and that went well, just a few tweaks to be made, Cedella is busy doing all the press and interviews now as well.

What is currently playing on your ipod?

KM: Of course my Dad, I love my brother Stephen’s stuff so all his music is on there. Pretty much all my family. Gregory Isaacs, Adele, Amy Winehouse, Gnarls Barkley, Janelle Monet and just some other random stuff, a lot of house music especially if it’s disco. I don’t sing but I do dance my heart out.

If your friends were to describe your style, what do you think they would say?

KM: I had to ask Mo for this answer because I just usually like what I like. I don’t know if I would say I have a specific style. She described it as eclectic, understated, modern luxe with a somewhat classic feel. I try and buy stuff that I can keep forever.

Who are your favorite designers?

I have a bunch. Stella McCartney, Alexander Wang, and Helmut Lang, I like the timeless beautiful silhouettes and their clothing always seem timeless yet modern.

Metallic pink Louboutin oxfords are a staple, of course!

Where are your favorite places to shop?

KM: Des Kohan is definitely a favorite of mine. Net-A-Porter, Barneys (I love having lunch there, then shopping after, you need energy to shop), Pixie Market, Painted Bird, Opening Ceremony, La Garconne, ASOS and American Apparel (here you can get all your staples at reasonable price), I love it all!

Your neighborhood (Mid-City proper) seems very up-and-coming, what spots do you frequent?

KM: I have a few faves. There is a little french bakery that has the best little fruit tarts La Maison Du Pain. Another fave is Bloom– I love this place because it’s about time we were offered healthier choices in our neighborhood. They do have fresh juices and I love the cleanser. Also, the owner of Bloom owns Chic Wine Bar which is awesome because it is a wine bar and their menu is pretty decent as well. Both also deliver which is also a plus. Wi Jammin is a Jamaican restaurant within walking distance from me and it’s perfect because I can get my Jamaican food fix while reminiscing about home.
What staple piece would you advise every gal to have? KM: A really awesome statement necklace because that can dress up anything. I am big on accessories, as you can tell. I love Annie Costella Brown, Gabriela Artegis, Hoorsenbuhs. Marni usually has awesome stuff, Lanvin as well.

Let’s talk shoes..oldest pair, newest pair, most comfortable pair, and finally, a pair you are obsessing over?

KM: My newest is Miu Miu polka dots platforms, they are such fun. My oldest is probably my silver wedges by Prada and most comfy I will say all the Marni’s. And lately, I’m obsessing over Pierre Hardy.

Tell us about your most recent shopping purchase?

KM: I scored big time with an epic Lanvin feather necklace for less than $200, as well as my cream crochet top from Painted Bird that was about $20.

In your travels, what do you find always makes it into your suitcase?

KM: Jeans and an awesome pair of shoes for those unexpected parties or dinners.

Where will you be jet-setting to next?

KM: I think New York to attend some business meetings for Marley Coffee…any reason for a trip to The Big Apple I am down.

What are 4 things you can’t live without?

KM: My son Nesta’s love and support, Water, Kamboucha and my phone.

What do you remember most about your father? Which of his songs make your heart pitter patter?

KM: I don’t remember much because I was only 8 but I do remember one story in particular. I was spending the day with him and when it came time to eat he was sitting with me. Some sort of spinach soup was in front of me and I did not want to touch it with a ten foot pole, but he sat there after everyone was done eating to make sure I ate it. I probably took a few bite, but I was a stubborn little girl, I’m not sure who won that standoff! It’s funny to think of this story now because I love food so much and really love to cook. My son also loves to cook. Our family is really big on family time which usually revolves around food and cooking.

When it comes to my dad’s music, I honestly can’t pick just one song, I really truly love them all. The one that does get me a little emotional if I had to choose is No Woman No Cry (if I had to choose one).

: Marley & Aquino

Images Courtesy of Social.Experiment

11 Comments on "Spotlight: Inside Karen Marley’s Fabulous Life"

Dillon September 7, 2011 at 4:30 am · Reply

love this!!! she is fabulous!
tchung September 7, 2011 at 5:01 am · Reply

Proud of you Karen Bless up!!
Jessica September 7, 2011 at 6:03 am · Reply

SO COOL!!!!
Francesca September 7, 2011 at 6:06 am · Reply

i die for that Lanvin necklace..how the heck did she get it for $200?!
Mary September 7, 2011 at 6:15 am · Reply

This is awesome! Love the hints of art, nature, and culture that resonated through her wardrobe and overall vibe.
Archie Lee Bell Jr. September 7, 2011 at 9:45 am · Reply

I am a bit slow to the starting line sometimes, but I was so proud of myself when I did connect the dots of who you were? I was like “I knew she was extra special”! I met you through Kerry, and the spirit shined so bright in both of you!, namaste
cardon September 7, 2011 at 3:47 pm · Reply

She is so cultivated and at ease to talk! Is she the intello of the Maley family? If so why isn’t SHE the boss of their empire?
Elizabeth ODonnell September 7, 2011 at 6:07 pm · Reply

Karen – You Go Girl ! cho MUST BE PROUD !!!!!!! – <<<<<<>>>>>>
thuy September 12, 2011 at 9:51 pm · Reply

I’ve salivated over Karens shoes and bags in the ebay store. keep your eyes peeled ladies- you’ll definitely come across some gems from her closet!
chung April 28, 2012 at 2:41 pm · Reply

Hey KM u go girl Blessings always. Peppaseed