Fashion Trends: Caribbean Streetwear Brands

For decades  Caribbean natives solely relied on international clothing brands to satisfy their stylistic needs. From Nike, ZARA and H&M to designers wear like Gucci, Ralph Lauren and Louis Vuitton. All have been staple brands in Caribbean closets. But young Caribbean creatives have started to change that trend! How? By creating their very own clothing brands. So whether you’re into an edgy, minimalist look or an iconic statement or logo design, they’ve got you covered! Here’s a list of Caribbean streetwear brands that are adding their touch to the Caribbean Fashion Industry.

BootlegRocstar Merch

Bold and edgy epitomize RocMerch. The collection started with the owner and Jamaican Neko Kelly’s iconic ‘…hun’ phrase attached to his social media captions. Then spiralled into catchy, tell it like it is statements he has made. For example, ‘Skin Chrome like Google,’ ‘Mood: Cyaa bloodclawt badda,’ ‘Bruk Gyal bruk Mi Vybz’ are among the captions written on the merch. A visit to the website revealed that RocMerch has just  released its 2019 collection – ‘Righteous Rebel.’ This collection exudes a spiritually uplifting vibe. RocMerch is definitely a brand pushing the ideals of individuality and inclusiveness all while being unapologetically you. 

BAAD Clothing

BAAD is short for ‘Brickhouse Authentic Apparel Designs.’ It was established in 2017 in Trinidad. The line produces a series of fashion-forward t-shirts and other apparel. “The name signifies a rebellion I was going through in my personal life,”  Baad owner, Tamar Watson commented. This brand is definitely leaving its mark by encouraging the movement- Be BAAD [push through and be you]. Baad is also looking to increase its online presence and host its very own fashion show!

Studio 27

Studio 27 is also a custom clothing brand suited for the stylish minimalist. The brand has been in existence for over 2 years and produces a series of simple yet trendy streetwear. The mastermind  behind Studio 27 is Maya Angelle, an artist and curator who is always willing to collaborate with other like minded creatives. This streetwear brand  gives its customers the opportunity to  ‘rep’ their home country not only in their hearts, but on their clothing. It’s cut out of  countries’ maps is definitely one of its unique pieces. Watch out for Studio 27 as it “breathes life into your home!”

YINK TT

Streetwear brand YINK was created in 2012 by a Trinidadian creative. YINK  is “the symbol of home; the symbol of Caribbean.” This brand pushes the ideals of patriotism and style. From embroidered to screen prints on t-shirts, caps and pants, YINK provides a wearable piece of home, wherever that is in the Caribbean.

Slang Teez

If there is a trending slang in Jamaica, you’d definitely find it on Slang Teez! This Jamaican custom clothing brand was established by Kirk Allen in 2012. ‘Rude Gyal,’ ‘Ruff,’ ‘Vibe’ and ‘Sauce’ are just a few of the Jamaican slangs imprinted on the t-shirts. But if you’re not into t-shirts, its other apparel like sweatshirts and pants, biker shorts and swimsuits can do the trick. Slang Teez is undoubtedly a ‘mood’ and fashion-forward brand.

Payne 

Payne is a series of original graphic tees and other apparel from St. Vincent. This line has graced both local and regional runways. “When I started Payne in 2011, I wanted to fuse my love for fine arts and painting with fashion,” says owner, Jeremy Payne. And he did just that! In addition to adding its touch to St. Vincent and the Grenadines fashion market, Payne took part in the Commonwealth Fashion Exchange in 2018. But it didn’t stop there, its hand-painted Eco Dress graced the halls of Buckingham Palace, London. Payne also became a Pitch@Palace Alumni. What’s next? Jeremy said, “my plate is full and I am grateful.” Payne is definitely one to watch out for!

TVFF Apparel

TVFF is yet another Jamaican streetwear brand that exudes an Afro-centric vibe. Its vibrant yet symbolic choice of colours and signature ‘TVFF’ logo imprinted on its collection is a statement piece. TVFF also has Rastafarian roots as displayed on its contemporary headgear. The lion symbol on the  collection is one of its signature  pieces. If you’re looking for a contemporary yet deeply rooted streetwear brand, then TVFF is the brand for you. 

Up – and – coming Brands

There are definitely more Caribbean clothing brands that can be added to the list. However, two that have been pushing through to leave their mark are Black Creationz and Been Blocked.

Black Creationz

Black Creationz [BC], is the brainchild of Grenadian Corey Mark started in 2017.  BC is a series of logo design tees that push everything black. Black culture, Black-owned businesses and the ideals of being black. Apart from the layered block design with Grenada’s national colours: ice [red], green and gold [yellow], BC recently launched another logo design featuring the letters ‘BC’ juxtaposed.

Been Blocked

While BC pushes black culture, Been Blocked started a social movement in St. Vincent. Been Blocked is a statement t-shirt that re-enforces the need to block out negativity. Because of the positive vibe, it exudes, Tevin Burnett, brand owner said persons are supporting the brand.  Wondering how to combat the negative social slurs? Then ‘Been Blocked’ got you!

Undoubtedly Caribbean street wear brands are leaving their imprint on West Indians at home and in the diaspora. Other brands like these exist. Find one near you. Support local and help build our Caribbean Fashion Industry.