The Windrush generation: 70 years of Caribbean fashion

June 22nd 2018 marked the 70 year anniversary of the Empire Windrush arriving on British shores. Jamaican-born fashion designer Lorna Holder’s new book, Style In My DNA: 70 years of British Caribbean fashion, beautifully captures the fashion and lives of Caribbean people from the 1940s onwards. Below are exclusive images illustrating the trends and styles of Caribbean people over 70 years.

1940s

Due to the wartime rationing, women’s clothing was of the Utility style, which was practical and used less fabric. Cinemas were very popular in the Caribbean. The Zoot suit was often worn by Caribbean men, inspired by African-American musicians. It consisted of high waisted, wide-legged trousers, worn with a long jacket.

1948 Jamaicans on board the Empire Windrush copyright Illustrated London News LtdMary Evans — *1948: Jamaicans on board the Empire Windrush, copyright Illustrated London News Ltd. Mary Evans*

*Late 1940s: Jamaican wedding, image copyright Beverly Provost OBE*

*Late 1940s: Caribbean Andrews Uncle Noel Billy copyright Margaret Andrews archives*

1950s

The rise of synthetic materials proved very popular in the 50’s as clothes were now more crease resistant and easier to look after. Fashion was often influenced by the cinema, as that was one of the few places Caribbean men went for entertainment in the UK.

*Late 1950s: Jamaican studio picture- great grant mother and young uncles, copyright Vida Harris*

*London, 1956: West Indians in Southam St., North Kensington*

1960s

Knitting became a prominent pastime for Caribbean women; this meant lots of garments, including jumpers, cardigans and twin sets, were created. By the late sixties, fashion was becoming less conservative – hot-pants, tight trousers and mini skirts grew in popularity.

*1960s: zip front cardigan worn with open front shirt, copyright Yvonne Bell*

*Early 1960s mod outfits: white collar woollen check suit-short sleeve pleated front dress, photographer Esmel May Woma, copyright Tuareg Productions Ltd. Mary Evans*

1970s

Student protests and The Civil Rights Movement both in the UK and America had a massive influence on fashion. Activists such as Angela Davis from the Black Panther Party and revolutionist, Che Guevara were often found on t-shirts.

*Late 1970s: camel tailored jacket full skirt, leather bomber jacket turtle neck sweater- flared trousers, copyright Tuareg Productions Ltd. Mary Evan*

*Mid 1970s: London Combination of scarves and accessories, copyright Tuareg Productions*

1980s

By the 1980s, clothes were loosely fitted and Kangol hats, trainers and Jheri curls were on-trend. Jamaican singer and actress, Grace Jones had a massive influence in fashion with her androgynous style and geometric hair.

*1980s: pretty frilly look, copyright Root Magazine lookbook*

*London, Mid 1980s: Lapaz promotional image -sports look flat top hair cut, copyright Tuareg Productions*

1990s

Caribbeans were experimenting and spending more money on fashion, beauty and hair. Trousers were often high waisted and circular sunglasses were on trend. Pan-Africanism meant fabrics and garments often from West Africa were worn as a way to reclaim and connect to the continent.