Known for its picturesque architecture, award-winning culinary landscape and stunning natural ecosystem, topography and wildlife, the Caribbean is layered with cultural richness; rooted in a diverse history that influences every fabric of eclectic lifestyles daily.
Beyond the world-renowned tagline of “sun, sea and sand”, however, this region prides itself on a fourth “s”: style.
The Caribbean fashion industry has spawned legendary talent throughout the decades. Dominican Republic’s Oscar De La Renta, Haiti’s Kerby Jean-Raymond of New-York based Pyer Moss and Barbadian-born entertainer-turned fashion and beauty mogul (and National Hero!), Robyn “Rihanna” Fenty are just some of those big names on the radar. It’s a clear indicator that the proof of our fashion success has been in the (Jamaican cornmeal) pudding – and with good reason.
With the region’s talent repeatedly disrupting the fashion scene the world over, here’s a look at 5 Caribbean Designers that are on our fashion watchlist, poised for global industry domination and celebrity collaborations – all coming to a runway or closet near you.
Treflè Designs – British Virgin Islands
Having arguably the greatest living entertainer request samples of your swimwear is not an accomplishment that many designers can add to their résumé. That seemingly impossible feat was exactly what Tortola-based designer Kristin Frazer was able to achieve in 2014, when Beyoncé appeared in a series of glamourous photos during a Mediterranean vacation wearing a gorgeous 2-piece swimsuit from Frazer’s label, Treflè Designs.
Since then, Treflè has showcased in a number of international opportunities – including the Olympic Games 2016 Opening Ceremony in Brazil for Team BVI, and a partnership with Verizon for custom-made phone cases in over 2200 stores across the US. Frazer’s delightful design aesthetic incorporates original fabrics and prints inspired by Caribbean living and her collections are size-inclusive – ranging from size 2 to 24.
When it comes to bridal wear excellence, Bahamian bespoke designer Phylicia Ellis is certainly becoming a Caribbean style MVP. The award-winning fashionista holds a simple ethos close: “Fashion has no rules once there is style.” From intricate, hand-placed beadwork to lacey luxury, her collections are inspired by the natural curves of island women who wish to compliment these figures with pieces that are flattering, modern and memorable.
It’s no wonder that the Nassau-based Ellis has gone wildly viral on social media on blog platforms such as The Shade Room and lauded by YouTuber and choreographer Aliya Janell Brison recently for her glamourous designs – wowing global fashion enthusiasts with her signature classic, timeless gowns.
Here’s a fashion ode to the eternal wanderlust who isn’t afraid to stand out. Hailing from the beautiful island of Jamaica, design house Jae Jolly has caught the eye of a number of influencers and celebrities – most recently, American actress Gabrielle Union-Wade, who was spotted in a striking orange jumpsuit number while on bae-cation on the island with her husband, NBA giant Dwayne Wade.
Janel Jolly’s latest ready-to-wear Resort 2020 collection, called San Basilio, is inspired by the Palenqueras – colourfully dressed Afro-Colombian women who sell fruits in the main squares of Cartagena and are known descendants of the first freed African Slaves originating from Congo, Africa. Bold colours, clean lines and hints of ruffled details are the order of the day for the Jae Jolly brand, which also dabbles in gorgeous swimwear options and statement accessories.
ADRIAN FOSTER – Trinidad and Tobago
An understated marriage between simplicity and effectiveness is the formidable point of view for womenswear designer ADRIAN FOSTER. Having graduated from the Caribbean Academy of Fashion & Design, Foster uses his profound technical knowledge to apply clean, modern lines to play with silhouettes in his collection, effortlessly highlighting the sexy in his clients.
In the Caribbean fashion scene that often conspicuously bursts with colour, Foster’s designs are a refreshing reset that leans into monochromatic palates with pops of hues that have been well-received during showcases at New York Fashion Week and London Fashion Week respectively. From rompers to pocket slips, minimalism with intentional textural use makes an ADRIAN FOSTER piece a practical, staple buy in any wardrobe for the woman on the go.
Born in Haiti’s capital city of Port-au-Prince to a mother and father who jointly owned a clothing store, David André has had lifelong experiences steeped in the fashion arena. After having trained at one of the most prestigious design schools in his native island, he headed to Paris, France to master the art of patternmaking and draping.
With a 100% Haitian based production, David André Collections mirrors the enchanting creative scene and flamboyant flair of Haitian culture. He is heavily influenced by French history and uses cottons and linens to bring quality garments at an affordable price point to consumers. The popular designer targets both men and women for his pieces, which range from bridal to costume to resort. To date, David André Collections has been featured on BBC, and is available in boutiques in Martinique, Guadeloupe and other regional locations. Additionally, the fashion house has graced international runways at Dominicana Moda and Berlin Fashion Week, among others.
