Michelene Auguste

Tell us a bit about yourself

Born and raised in Trinidad and Tobago, I’m Michelene Auguste—a storyteller, curator, model, and founder of Studio Dem, a vintage and Caribbean contemporary design store in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Studio Dem isn’t just a store—it’s a living, breathing space for community, culture, and creativity. A home for collaboration among Caribbean creatives and BIPOC artists, where fashion, art, music, and well “all kinda ting” come together.

Through Dem, I tell stories—each piece is a thread connecting past and present, culture and memory. Whether it’s a curated vintage gem or a handmade treasure, everything in the store is meant to preserve and celebrate heritage while creating space for new narratives.

Outside of Studio Dem, I model and work in fashion, always centering beauty, identity, and representation. At the heart of everything I do is the desire to uplift, celebrate, and make space for voices like mine.

How would you describe your style?

Cultural and story-driven—bold, expressive, and deeply rooted in heritage. I gravitate toward color, print, and statement pieces that feel personal and meaningful, whether vintage, handmade, or tied to my roots. For me, fashion is storytelling.

Words to live by?

At the heart of everything, it’s a love story—learning to love yourself, to love others, and to move through the world in the frequency of love.

What inspired you to start Studio Dem?

My culture, my family, and my obsession with vintage. I’ve always loved hunting for treasures and giving pieces new life. After leaving Trinidad at a young age to model, I found myself in a lot of predominantly white spaces, which made me even more determined to create something rooted in who I am. I envisioned Dem as a space that felt like home, like a living museum filled with stories, art, and Caribbean magic. A place to gather, connect, and shine a light on Caribbean artists and makers.

What do you love most about spotlighting Caribbean designers?

Watching people fall in love with the pieces and seeing how our stories resonate with people from all over the world. It’s beautiful to witness that connection.

Who’s your ultimate style icon?

The women I grew up with—my grandmother, my mother, and my cousins. Their style was always unique, fearless, and full of personality. They shaped everything for me.

Describe your perfect day in NYC

It starts with a cute outfit :p—I need to feel good in what I’m wearing! Breakfast a must! Then a walk with my dog, a coffee run, and heading to the store. I know it sounds simple, but for now heading to Studio Dem is still a dream to me, and I try to stay present and grateful.  Food-wise, I have sooo many! But my favorite Trinidadian places are Trini Girl in Brooklyn, Ali’s Roti Shop and  Trinciti Roti Shop or Singh’s Roti Shop in Queens.

What does feeling like the best version of yourself mean to you?

Showing up for the people I love, taking care of myself, and finding ways to give back. That’s when I feel most aligned.

What’s next for you? Any exciting projects?

I’m working on a small collection of unique pieces made entirely from recycled and found materials. It’s something I’ve been dreaming about—definitely a little scary, but I’m excited. I also hope to do something really special back home in Trinidad. The vision is still forming, but it’s close to my heart.

How do you stay inspired creatively?

New York always gives me something—its energy, its people, the fashion, the chaos. But going home or traveling resets me. The Caribbean is my forever muse.