Nail the carnival look with finesse for the return of London’s biggest – and most fiery- street party.
Since 1966, the British Caribbean community has illuminated the streets of London with a parade of dancing, mouth-watering food, a plethora of live music and beautiful outfits on the August bank holiday weekend.
Taking place every year, the all-important event celebrates the vibrant culture of island life. One can’t help but be starstruck by the captivatingly vibrant-styled women wearing sparkly ensembles embellished with feathers and sequins.
Suppose you’re looking to party the weekend away in a typically ambitious fashion and mark the end of a long, hot summer. In that case, there’s no better way than to embrace the beguiling brilliance of Carnival style.
Since three years have passed since the last event, the atmosphere is likely to be more electrifying than ever – with people excited to be back on west London’s streets.
Less is More
While pastels and florals are ground-breaking for spring, to mark the end of summer, cut-outs and neons are in full spirit this carnival season, and these celebs are rocking streetwear, dressed in bright-hued shades. Any outfit can be made festival-ready with pops of colour here and there.
A Caribbean island’s garments resemble its beautiful lifestyle. The clothes represent the nation’s tropical environment from the blue hues that evoke the warm waters to the bright yellows that reflect the radiant sun.
Here are some outfits we just can’t get enough of…
Glowing in a fitted cut out co-ord, Maya Jama looks empowered in a handmade in London ensemble that perfectly fits the vibe for Notting Hill Carnival. The slash skirt and vest combination from independent company Tit4Tat is created from fabrics that show off the silhouette. Tropical colours like khaki and yellow go well together, especially not to overpower the cutout details of the outfit. This piece is truly reminiscent of the Caribbean sun.
Wolf & Badger- COCO BUSTIER
Wolf & Badger- TROPIQUE PANTS
A contemporary dose of trend inspiration
Posing with her orange iguana on her left arm, the ‘Sweetest Pie’ singer shows off her layered beaded necklace and silver hoop earrings in a Jean Paul Gaultier three-piece set. The fashion house’s signature ‘Billet de Banque’ print features island-inspired patterns using a variety of colours.
Continuing the colours and cutouts trend, Latto is wearing a Balboa Island maxi dress that is surrounded by beautiful patterns. If there’s one thing other than bright colours that stands out in the traditional clothing of the Caribbean, it’s the inevitable designs and patterns. Paired with a metallic lambskin quilted Chanel bag, the vibrant nature of this outfit will shine during the August bank holiday.
If you’re not ready to say goodbye to summer just yet, this eye-catching matching bandeau and skort duo will sure turn heads this season. If you’re hoping to dazzle among the dancers, this combo would suit both a daytime street fiesta or an evening soirée and accessorising the outfit with some flowers in your hair gives off those sunny beach vibes.
Who says red and pink clash?
Already ready for a festival, Dua Lipa looks pretty in pink wearing a barbie inspired baby pink crop top along with short shorts (both pieces featured a holographic buckle on the hem and waistlines) pictured with her friend, Sarah Lysander, wearing a casual vest layered with a vivid red shirt and red and black tie-dye skirt.
Zara – SATIN CROP TOP
Prada – Pouch belt shorts
Words by Chanelle Jassim
Header image: @mayajama
