Jawara Alleyne is no stranger to the spotlight. After all, when THE Rihanna declares you as her
“new favorite designer,” the world is bound to take notice. In an interview with Interview Magazine, Rihanna casually mentioned how she’s “struggling with tops,” adding that Jawara Alleyne’s designs have been her go-to solution. That simple remark sent shockwaves through the fashion world, marking Alleyne as a name you need to know—and fast !
British Vogue
#TheDesigneroftheMoment
Born in Jamaica and raised in the Cayman Islands, Jawara has carried his island influences into every stitch, drape, and cut of his collections. His work reflects a mix of Rastafarian mysticism, pirate folklore, and London’s rebellious punk subcultures, creating a perfect storm of ideas that continues to shake up the fashion industry.
Just a few days ago, Jawara lit up London Fashion Week with his SS25 collection, ‘Island Underground’. For many in attendance, the experience felt like entering a world of both vivid colors and powerful emotions. As we witnessed firsthand at Voir, his runway didn’t just showcase clothes—it told a story, deeply rooted in his Caribbean identity and his ability to make something extraordinary from limited resources.
His show referenced the natural beauty of the Cayman Islands but also the devastation that hurricanes leave in their wake—a metaphor for the way life and fashion can be torn apart and rebuilt. The models, draped in rich fabrics and ombré-dyed looks, appeared like survivors emerging from chaos, symbolizing resilience and rebirth.
The color choices were as deliberate as his draping, with fabrics seemingly pulled from the wreckage and transformed into high fashion. His pirate-inspired designs, nautical stripes, and tin accessories all hinted at his roots, but with a modern edge that had the crowd on its feet. It was a blend of raw, island-inspired beauty and high-concept fashion, showcasing Alleyne’s talent for creating collections that are deeply personal, yet universally resonant.
Vogue Runway
#TheRiseofaNewVision
Jawara Alleyne, a graduate of both the London College of Fashion (Bachelor of Fashion Design and Marketing) and Central Saint Martins (Master of Design), is part of a wave of visionary talent reshaping the fashion industry. Alongside contemporaries like Ib Kamara and Campbell Addy, Alleyne has emerged from a fresh generation of Black designers who bring a unique, boundary-pushing perspective to the industry.
His breakthrough came when he launched his own brand through the Fashion East initiative in 2021. His work stood out not only for its bold aesthetics but also for its deep-rooted cultural and sustainable values. Coming from the Caribbean, Alleyne’s approach to design reflects the practices of his upbringing—where nothing is wasted, and everything is repurposed. This philosophy forms the core of his brand’s identity.
“Life in the Caribbean was always circular,” Alleyne said. For him, the concept of sustainability goes beyond trend—it’s cultural. His practice is a masterclass in reworking end- of-life garments and deadstock materials, a reflection of how Caribbean communities often reclaim and repurpose everything. His pieces are fluid yet structured, draped yet sharp, all while evoking an overwhelming sense of artistry and craftsmanship. “Circularity is an all- encompassing way of life,” he explained, reflecting his belief in sustainable practices that resonate deeply with today’s eco-conscious consumers.
#TheRihannaEffect
Of course, no article about Jawara Alleyne would be complete without highlighting his growing list of celebrity fans, most notably Rihanna. Her influence on the global fashion scene is unparalleled, and her endorsement of Alleyne’s work has brought him into a new level of prominence. Just last year, Rihanna was spotted in New York rocking one of his custom-made pieces—a draped chocolate brown silk dress that quickly became one of the most-talked-about looks from NYFW.
“She’s been my muse for years,” Jawara said, referencing how her confidence and daring spirit have been a guiding light for his creative process. There’s an undeniable connection between the two—one that’s seen Alleyne’s profile rise to new heights. His pieces, much like Rihanna herself, exude a sensuality that’s both empowering and transformative.
#TheFutureisJawara
As Alleyne continues to build on his successes, one thing is clear: this is just the beginning. With an ever-growing list of celebrity supporters, a dedication to sustainability, and a style that marries the past with the future, Jawara Alleyne is redefining what it means to be a designer in the 21st century.
Stay tuned, because if this summer and LFW have shown us anything, it’s that Jawara Alleyne is a name we’re going to be hearing for years to come.
Words By Noah Balou
