The Best Caribbean-Inspired Fashion Trends of 2018

The Caribbean is an eclectic mix of races and cultures. This unique mix inspires our fashion designers to produce vibrant clothing; memorable conversation pieces that highlight the beauty of those who wear them. The 2018 Caribbean fashion trends are evident in the designs of the Caribbean’s leading fashion designers including:

Before discussing these trends, it’s important for us to reflect on the influences on Caribbean fashion. This background will help you better appreciate modern how Caribbean fashion was molded.

The Influences on Caribbean Fashion

Caribbean fashion is driven by the history of our people. Slavery resulted in people from Africa, Europe and Asia inhabiting the Caribbean islands. These cultural influences have shaped our designs. For instance, some designs may have elements of Chinese fashion, but will also display our unique Caribbean touch.

Niamh Tuft, in an article entitled Fashion Caribbean published on the British Council’s website, describes the history of Caribbean fashion as “a distinctive and unique part of [the Caribbean’s] culture and capable of assimilating and transforming international influences.” Our Caribbean designers know how to reimagine existing international fashion trends.

The Caribbean-inspired fashion trends listed below are just a few of the things that make our clothing uniquely Caribbean. Our clothing is more than just loose-fitting, easy resort-wear. It has a voice that screams from the mountaintops, “Hey! I’m pretty awesome!”

Bold Colors

Caribbean natives don’t shy away from bold colors. Red, yellow, green, orange…you name it, we have an outfit that represents it. These bold colors are reminiscent of our tropical environment and vibrant people. We’re too awesome to limit ourselves to boring pastels!

Unique Patterns and Prints

The highly successful Black Panther movie encouraged many Caribbean designers to go back to their African roots. Unique and captivating African prints have become increasingly popular. Check out Jamaica’s EtAl storeto see some of these unique prints.

Another growing trend is mixing patterns. For instance, a floral pattern is mixed with a striped pattern. Mixed and matched prints add even greater punch to the Caribbean flair. Check out Sha Sha Designsto see some of this in action.

Statement Pieces

More people are becoming bolder with their accessories. From Africa-inspired chokers to chunky bracelets and textured bags, statement pieces add a bold touch to any outfit.

Fringes and Tassels

There’s a growing obsession with the Pocahontas-inspired tassel and fringe look. There are tassel earrings, tassel shoes, fringe dresses and skirts…you name it and it’s probably already been tasseled or fringed.

Introducing Caribbean Fashion Week

We can’t discuss Caribbean fashion without mentioning the highly acclaimed Caribbean Fashion Week (CFW). This annual event has become the go-to event for seeing the latest fashion from Caribbean designers. CFW began in 2000 and is the brainchild of Kingsley Cooper, founder of Pulse Entertainment, a Jamaican modeling agency and fashion company.

Designers across the Caribbean showcase their designs each year at this highly respected event. Details about the 2018 haven’t been published. However, you can stay on track with what’s happening by visiting the website.

Caribbean fashion has made an indelible mark on global fashion. It reflects the bold and vibrant personality of our people and our rich history. Check out some of our unique designs when you vacation on one of our picturesque islands.

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