Barry’s Global Fashion Odyssey Jamaican Designer Goes Around The World

By Walter Greene

Jamaica’s premier fashion designer Barry Moncrieffe’s newest collection shown at Caribbean Fashion Week was a journey with his fashionable women who travel the world and take fashion influences from the exotic locations they visit. In a burst of vivid color and creativity, Moncrieffe unleashed a wearable collection that spoke volumes of his talents and knowledge of the balance and flow of fabric.

The journey started in the South of France and then to Monaco where his signature black and white came down the long catwalk in lush floral prints, bold black and white polka dots and wide stripes. His easy summer dresses were strapless and featured flared skirts. Jamaican model Rochelle Watson wore his original strapless top and pleated skirt that was highlighted by Barry’s keen polka dot intervals on the hemline.

Barry then took the audience on an African Safari with Rochelle easing down the catwalk in a Serengeti print complete with tribal jewelry. A loose tent dress of the same print was highlighted by a Maasi inspired gold necklace. The men were not left out when Barry dressed them casually in loose African print tunics and easy drawstring trousers. The Asian tour began with model LaToya in flowing chiffon Harem pants topped with a brief midriff.

The Caribbean was the last leg of the trip with wide tropical cotton skirts embroidered with indigenous floral accents. A sexy bra-top made of polished coconut shells completed the ensemble.

For evening drama, Barry dressed his men in long Indian inspired tunic shirts in black and silver, while his lovely ladies donned colorful sari print ankle length skirts and dazzling tops. Jamaican/Canadian model Danielle Bowen wore the green and red jeweled flared skirt adorned with Indian jewelry and embroidery. Barry closed out his collection with model Shevolee Bell wearing his glorious African Queen ensemble in sunrise orange with gold tones complete with elaborate embroidery and a gold headpiece.

Barry Moncrieffe has been a staple of the Caribbean Fashion scene for many years. A former principal dancer with the NDTC (National Dance Theater Company) Barry also doubles as the Associate Director of the National School of Dance in Jamaica. He noted that the fluidity of dance is reflected in his creations; “Yes! It is often observed in my clothes. I love movement and I believe that my clothes should be comfortable and that is why my second source of inspiration is fabric.”

Speaking of his clean and simple approach to design, Barry said: “I am not into all of the frills, thrills , puffs and lace. I believe they steal from the beauty of the complete outfit. Simple cottons and linens are my preferred fabric choices for daywear and soft georgette and knits are transformed into moving expressions for my more glamorous pieces.”

Barry’s collection in keeping with what he is known for remains focused. His ever-changing exploration of black and white is his signature, and, he injects that aspect of his creativity in all of his collections. His artistry is reflected in a disciplined, structured approach to fashion design. The result, Barry is always fresh, classic and wearable fashions.

Photos courtesy: Pulse International