On one of the busiest shopping days of the week, traffic on Broad Street came to a standstill as the ISLEstyle Fashion Show took over the heart of Bridgetown. The spectacle, part of the packed CARIFESTA schedule, turned the bustling thoroughfare into a sprawling catwalk.
The road was closed to all vehicles as top designers readied their models to strut in the blistering heat on Saturday. Eager city goers lined both sides of the street, waiting patiently for the start, which was delayed by an hour. When the models finally hit the runway, their resilience was tested not only by the sweltering temperatures but also by the long runway, which stretched from the Parliament buildings down to Bridgetown Duty Free. With faces adorned in Rihanna’s Fenty line, which sponsored the production, the models showcased bold fashion and the durability of the global brand.
One of the most memorable moments came early in the show when a model stumbled as her shoe strap popped. Remaining composed, she continued with determination, eventually switching to sandals with the vocal support of the understanding crowd. Only the most observant noticed the subtle change as she made her way back up.
Designers from across the region and beyond presented striking collections. Among them was Reni Folawiyo, Nigerian fashion entrepreneur and founder of ALÁRA, a Lagos-based concept store that curates African luxury fashion, design, and art. Her line, AlaraWorld, captivated the audience with an opulent line that exuded royalty, drawing gasps as models floated across the stage in intricately detailed pieces. Each creation stood out as unique, with colours that varied yet never diminished the regal essence of the collection.
From Earth, by Kered Clement from Grenada, evoked the ease of resort life, with crisp white dresses adorned with hand-painted designs and brimmed hats made from tree fibres, conjuring visions of vacation comfort.
Adding variety, Trinidadian designer Mark Eastman served up vibrant menswear in a kaleidoscope of colours, while the Alma and Costa, Colombian swimwear line presented flattering cuts for every body type.
Rhea Cummins-Jordan, local designer of Blac Flamingo Apparel, closed the show with an eclectic collection that heavily incorporated macramé. The earthy tones contrasted with bold colours, ensuring she ended the show on a high note with her striking designs.
The spectacle drew a large crowd, including Prime Minister Mia Mottley, who revealed that the idea to host the show on Broad Street came from local designer and fashion enthusiast Greg Williams. She used the occasion to reflect on the importance of the location and the symbolism of fashion.
Thanking the National Cultural Foundation for selecting the location between the ‘We Loyal Sons and Daughters All’ monument at National Heroes Square and the Parliament buildings, Mottley emphasised the historic significance of the event.
“We are not perfect, but the pursuit of perfection must never be the obstacle to progress, and today in Bridgetown, to celebrate the fashion of Africa on the very spot where Africans were separated, divided, and made instruments and objects for other people’s desire and profit, we have come so far. Three hundred and ninety-seven years after Bridgetown was established, it is my honour to welcome you, the people of the Caribbean, to Bridgetown and to this spot that carries so many memories but is now the place to admit, with so many possibilities.” (STT)
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