Fashion Fusion in Havana: Tradition Meets Modernity on the Runway
This week, sixteen young designers from across the Caribbean showcase their vibrant creations in Havana, blending traditional styles with contemporary Fashion under a UNESCO-sponsored training program funded by the European Union.
In the heart of historic Havana, at the National Museum of Fine Arts, a vibrant and electrifying fashion show titled ‘Fashion in da House’ unfolds, captivating an audience brimming with anticipation to witness the thrilling fusion of tradition and modernity. This event is part of a UNESCO initiative to boost the Caribbean fashion industry, supported by the European Union. The program includes workshops, mentorships, lectures, and visits to local fashion studios and boutiques designed to nurture the region’s budding talent.
Celebrating Caribbean Identity
The runway glows with the designs of sixteen young creators from eight Caribbean countries, including Cuba, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda, and Guyana. Each designer brings a unique blend of their cultural heritage and contemporary vision to the forefront, making ‘Fashion in the House’ not just a show but a celebration of Caribbean identity.
One of the designers, Ronelli Requena from Belize, is participating for the second time in Cuba. However, this visit is exceptional as she presents her “MEst-HIZO” collection. “It’s a tribute to my culture focused through embroidery,” Requena shares with EFE, highlighting how traditional crafts can play a role in contemporary Fashion.
The Dominican Republic is represented through young Mildred Henry and her debut Cuban collection, “Facare.” Henry describes her collection as embodying “strength, joy, quality, and even the relaxation that characterizes Caribbeans.” The collection’s name is a blend of words that evoke these qualities, showcasing how language and Fashion intersect to express cultural traits.
This vibrant display on the runway is part of the ‘Made in the Caribbean’ design contest, where UNESCO and the EU aim to spotlight the innovative spirit of these young entrepreneurs. Their creations, ranging from dresses and skirts to trousers and hats, are not just clothing but narratives woven from the threads of their diverse backgrounds.
Cultural Alignment: Month of Europe
The timing of the fashion show coincides with the Month of Europe, which began on April 9 and will conclude on May 9, aligning with Europe Day. This cultural alignment underscores the international support for Caribbean creativity, bridging continents through the power of Fashion.
The “Transcultural” program, under which this training falls, is a broader UNESCO initiative integrating Cuba, the Caribbean, and the European Union through culture and creativity. Backed by a €15 million grant from the EU, this program not only focuses on Fashion but also includes scholarships, virtual courses, cultural training programs, and a significant architectural restoration project—transforming the old Santa Clara convent into an educational center in Old Havana.
This initiative is critical for its immediate impact on these young designers and its potential to inspire sustainable development within the Caribbean fashion industry. By fostering talent and providing international platforms, UNESCO and the EU are helping to shape a future where Caribbean designers are recognized for their vibrant aesthetic and innovative contributions to global Fashion.
Moreover, the program addresses the Caribbean region’s broader challenges, such as economic diversification, cultural preservation, and international collaboration. Through Fashion, these young designers are given the tools to become artists, entrepreneurs, and cultural ambassadors of their respective countries.
Cultural Exchange and Community
As “Fashion in the House” showcases these young talents, it reminds us of the power of cultural exchange and the global community’s role in nurturing creative industries. The event is a testament to the resilience and richness of Caribbean culture, proving that even in a world dominated by large fashion capitals, there is room for diverse voices and stories.
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The fusion of color, Caribbean vibes, and dialogue between tradition and modernity on the Havana runway is not just a fashion statement but a bold declaration of the region’s dynamic potential. As these young designers return to their countries, they carry enhanced skills, exposure, and a renewed sense of purpose in their contributions to their local communities and the global tapestry of Fashion.
