Best Looks from Caribbean Designers
Despite a rainy New York Fashion Week, spring has sprung with vivid tropical hues that strongly echo Caribbean flair, thanks to the many designers among the Diaspora tapping into their island roots for some spectacular looks. Check out these Caribbean Designers at New York Fashion week, from Rihanna’s carnivalesque undies to Cushnie’s party ruffles, we’ve rounded up the best looks from the runways.
Pyer Moss
Artist and designer Kerby Jean-Raymond dived deep into New York’s African-American culture for his Spring/Summer 2019 collection, from creating vivid prints from portraits by artist Derrick Adams, to collaborating with FUBU for a special capsule collection. The result – cool and colorful sportswear and sleek evening pieces with a powerful message. The epic show closed out with a Caribbean barbecue, jerk chicken and all. We wouldn’t expect anything less from the native New Yorker, born to Haitian immigrants.
Savage x Fenty
Rihanna debuted her Fall/Winter 2018 lingerie collection in style, with a bio-dome of tropical splendor, artful choreography and goddess models of all shapes and shades. The same mood is reflected in the collection – colorful hues, gauzy panels, sleek lace and sexy, theatrical cutouts. Prints in animal spots and stripes continue the fearless vibe – perfect for carnival season, as well as the bedroom.
Cushnie
Following the departure of her partner Michelle Ochs, British-Jamaican designer Carly Cushnie launched her rebranded label with a bang, though keeping the sleek, sexy minimalism fans know and love. This collection was inspired by her Caribbean roots, filled with flirty ruffles, raffia, peek-a-boo mesh and saturated hues – the perfect de facto uniform for island girls everywhere. Also pree the stunning make-up look, a simple face and bold lip inspired by singer Sade.
House of Byfield
The Netherlands-based Jamaican designer Carmichael Byfield brought more of his flamboyant flair to his men’s and women’s collections, from festive peacock suiting to breezy summer dresses. Complex patterns are juxtaposed with strong blocks of sunny yellows, sapphire blues and hunter greens. Plus, don’t miss the his-and-her swimsuits, with matching patterns and daring, tight cuts.
Fe Noel
These ethereal dresses from designer Fe Noel (who has family roots in Grenada) are walking works of art, featuring prints from artwork by painter Harmonia Rosales. The silhouettes also tap into your inner goddess, with loose, flowing frames and ladylike ruffles. Noel also takes a feminine touch to her mint lacy jersey, inspired by basketball star LeBron James. The 23 logo is “a homage to her mother’s birthday and LeBron’s jersey number,” says the designer.
