Colors of Culture - by Amarissa Imoukhuede
Jamaica isn't just a destination; it's a rhythm, a vibe, and, notably, a style.
A couple of weeks ago, I found myself on the beach under the sun sipping rum punches on this beautiful island. It was a leisurely escape, no high-profile fashion events or designer shop visits were on my agenda. But you know what? Even though I didn't intentionally set out to look for it, I couldn't ignore the fact that Jamaican style— from the vibrant colors to its vast array of influences— is basically a big, lively celebration of life, all channeled through the clothes people wear.
The colorful and bold patterns reflect the warmth of the people and the beating heart of their culture. The attire, characterized by its vivid and loose designs, resonates with the overall comfort-oriented approach of the culture, mirroring the relaxed and easygoing vibe I experienced firsthand.
So, from one traveler to others, let me give you a glimpse of what makes this island so special, through the unique and colorful fashion of its people.
Jamaican culture boasts a rich tapestry of beauty and history, reflected prominently in its traditional clothing as well as everyday wear. Like many other cultures, Jamaican attire serves as a visual representation of their historical journey and the diverse influences they've encountered over centuries.
During my visit to the island, what struck me most about the locals I encountered was their vibrant and lively spirit, a characteristic that seamlessly translated into their fashion choices. In addition to lively colors, Jamaican style is a personal and unique fusion of natural fabrics and traditional garments. The locals embodied this fusion, wearing clothing that echoed the dynamic energy of the culture.
Jamaican clothing is a testament to the colors and energy embedded in their culture, similar to the vibrant fashion styles found in many parts of the African diaspora. It's as if it’s a universal language of expression, a symbol that speaks volumes about the people wearing it.
Bold patterns, frequently featuring red, yellow, green, and black are a common sight in Jamaica, each telling a story of cultural richness and individuality. The colors are inspired by the three colors that make up the Ethiopian flag. The Rastafarian culture is one of the most significant Jamaican cultural movements, developing in the 1930s after the crowning of Ethiopian emperor Haile Selassie I.
This fashion style serves as an expression of their cultural identity. Rastafarian clothing incorporates African-inspired elements such as loose-fitting robes, ponchos, and turbans, often complemented by the presence of dreadlocks. Rastafarian clothing inspires many designs we see today, from the colors to the styles. Elements of this clothing style are evident on runways, as seen in Theophilio's Spring 2022 ready-to-wear collection presented during NYFW. Additionally, brands like Christian Dior, Levi’s, and Tommy Hilfiger have all incorporated Rastafarian themes into their past collections.
While Rastafarian clothing has become a popular fashion style that brands often seek to emulate, it is crucial for these brands to understand the culture and the people from whom they are drawing inspiration. A notable example occurred in the early 2000s when Christian Dior's then-creative director, John Galliano, introduced a Rasta collection featuring red, gold, and green striped heels, bags, quilted snow boots, and even a snowboard.
This endeavor faced severe backlash for appropriating Rastafarianism without a proper understanding of the Jamaican culture or Rastafarian beliefs. This incident highlighted the consequences of cultural misappropriation, which is why it is so important to conduct thorough research prior to drawing “inspiration” from something and respect the sacred elements within a culture when drawing this inspiration.
In the heart of Jamaican fashion, you'll find threads spun from nature itself. Cotton takes the lead, a perfect match for the island's tropical warmth, while hemp, linen, and silk are also commonly used. But it's not just about the materials; it's the artistry. Imagine intricate embroidery, each stitch is a testament to handcrafted excellence, typically made by local artisans.
Let's not forget the accessories— straw hats and baskets, woven from local plant fibers, adding that perfect touch of island flair. Another standout accessory is the head-ties. Crafted from pure cotton and soaked in the boldest hues, because, in Jamaica, even the headwear tells a vibrant story.
In the past few years, I've discovered two brands whose collections celebrate Jamaican fashion and are both owned by designers with Jamaican roots: Theophilio and Diotima. Through fashion, these brands weave personal narratives, bringing to light the rich artistry embedded in Jamaica.
While Theophilio calls Brooklyn home, it was founded by Jamaican-born designer Edvin Thompson. This intrinsic connection explains why the brand effortlessly weaves Jamaican flair into its very DNA. This connection becomes evident in the brand's collections, seamlessly incorporating the themes I talked about earlier.
Theophilio launched in 2016 and is a modern ready-to-wear label that not only celebrates culture, community, and diversity but also pays homage to Jamaica's dancehall vibes and the urban energy of New York. From flared leather trousers to slouchy denim pants, printed T-shirts to colorful mesh tops, the brand offers staples that reflect a fusion of influences. What sets Theophilio apart is not just its style but its commitment to sustainability— each piece is crafted from sustainably sourced and upcycled fabrics. The designs showcase form-fitting silhouettes and vibrant hues reminiscent of the Jamaican flag, creating a harmonious blend of fashion and conscientious choices.
Diotima is a ready-to-wear womenswear brand born from the vision of Jamaican-born designer Rachel Scott. With a profound connection to her Jamaican heritage, Rachel founded the brand as a lively celebration of her roots. Infusing dancehall vibes with Caribbean-style vacation pieces, Diotima presents a luxurious take on clothing, resulting in creations that are both classy and alluring. What sets this brand apart is the incorporation of hand-woven crochet and macrame details, skillfully crafted by local Jamaican artisans. In doing so, Diotima not only produces exquisite pieces but also empowers the talented community back on the island. This fusion of fashion and community engagement establishes Diotima as a standout name in the world of contemporary womenswear.
I had the pleasure of meeting Rachel Scott at a NYFW showroom hosted by the Black in Fashion Council. Through her designs, Rachel offers a fresh perspective on Caribbean style. According to the designer, her goal is not to dwell in nostalgia but to instill a sense of newness. Her creations seamlessly blend historical elements with a modern touch, embodying a dynamic fusion of the past and the present.
After learning so much about Jamaican fashion and how it effectively depicts the culture, it got me thinking about what stories my wardrobe tells about my own journey and cultural influences.
What does yours say?
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