Fashion $ Dancehall
The red carpet is considered the fashion runway for some of the biggest award shows. From the Grammys to the Oscars, not to mention the MET Gala. Some of the biggest names in Fashion and show business, grace our red carpets, wearing the hottest styles and trends.
These events are highly anticipated by spectators around the world. They watch in awww as each individual take their turn walking the red carpet, showing, off who/what they’re wearing.
Since the early 90’s Fashion has been “HIGHLY” publicized in dancehall. I was just a teenager when Shabba Rangs debuted his video for “Trailer load a girl”, And I can remember just staring at the television in admiration. The designs were outstanding! Sequins outfits, bodysuits, and uniquely designed statement pieces, it was amazing to watch. “I’m pretty sure I watched that video over a hundred times”
When we think of fashion, we think of runways, fashion shows and top-notch designers, but on the contrary the dancehall scene has evolved into its own fashion gala.
For more than a decade, dancehall events have been imitated around the world, and no one would disagree that dancehall originated in Jamaica. As more Jamaicans started to migrate to different parts of the world, they formulated their own dancehall fraternity, hosting some of the most elaborate events, much anticipated like the Grammys/ MET Gala.
There is much to be said about the dancehall fraternity in Toronto. Dancehall events are much bigger than the music, in fact most of the events that are taking place these days are fashion focused, with titles such as “fashion statement/ dress code/ designer & bottles, just to name a few. There are at least 3-6 dancehall events taking place every weekend, and party patron decide which event(s) they will be attending, however there is always one event that is highly anticipated and that is usually where you will get to see all the dons and Divas and top fashionistas.
Fashion in dancehall has become a profitable market for Toronto Fashion designers. The average cost for a statement piece ranges anywhere from $300-$600, sometimes more, depending on the designer, and party goers are making a statement with their outfits. Some of the hottest names in dancehall have certainly earned titles such as fashionistas and trendsetters. One in particular is Toronto’s very own, Nikki Hype, who is not just a party goer, she has made a name for herself as an international host, and in my opinion, one of the most diverse individuals on Toronto Fashion/Dancehall scene, when it comes to fashion. She is one of the top hosts for many of the dancehall events in Toronto, and she is always on point.
High fashion in dancehall is nothing new, however it is wonderful to see where we came from and where we are today. The Met gala has recently released the dress code for 2025. “Superfine tailoring Black Style” ,As a black designer, that focuses on creativity and the art of fashion, I am super excited about the 2025 Met Gala.
Dancehall will forever be fashion focused, however we have added style and class to the dance floor over the years, and as a long time dancehall patron it is really beautiful to see.
So, weather you’re wearing a custom, statement piece from an independent designer, or a piece from an affordable retail brand, I think we all can agree that fashion is the forefront of dancehall.
