Caribbean Collections is part of a fashion showcase, established by the British Fashion Council, whose aim to is show international press and buyers the emerging talent coming from countries as diverse as Korea, Romania, Nigeria and the Caribbean.
The Caribbean Collections showcase featured 11 designers from across the Caribbean who, although established in their home countries, really want to make an impact on the international market.
Our favourite three were:
Julan (Jamaica)
Designer Juliette Dyke said her Resort 2012 collection was inspired the 1970s bohemian movement but in an updated and glamorous way. The Julan woman likes pieces that are free, liberated and cosmopolitan.
DrennaLUNA (Jamaica)
Arlene Martin named her line after her grandmothers and they would certainly be proud of what she brought to LFW. Her clothes are instantly wearable; immaculately cut and her use of fabrics – silks, jerseys and linen – are very flattering to the female form. Her dresses simply drape the body and come in a variety of gorgeous colours. Her evening gowns have a couture aesthetic to them and certainly wouldn’t look out of place on a red carpet.
Atelier Dore (Suriname)
This brand is home to some of the most stunning jewellery we have ever seen. Each item is handmade in silver and semi precious stones with only one of each design made so there’s no chance of seeing anyone else wearing your piece. The line wouldn’t look out of place in Harvey Nicks or Selfridges.
The point of the exhibition is to show the international community the talent that is in the Caribbean so if you like what you see – buy it, tell others, tell the designers. This is the only way the Caribbean can get a foothold in the extremely competitive international fashion market.
