On an evening that saw numerous North Americans put their creativity on display in the forms of unique, hilarious, mind boggling and often downright scary Halloween costumes, an event entitled, “Born in Brooklyn” sought to place a similar emphasis on the fashion arts but in another format.
DancehallSoca.com was on hand to capture each aspect as fashion designer Simon Duncan unveiled his new fall line.
The venue which was located in the culturally diverse borough of Brooklyn reflected a good use of space on the part of the organisers and provided a classy yet festive environment for the evening’s proceedings. Guests were seated on either side of a majestic red carpet which served as the runway and the décor was nothing short of “Halloweenesque” and featured dangling bats, skeletons and mummies.
The show itself highlighted Duncan’s new collection of fashion wear inclusive of shirts, tops, pants, skirts, gowns and accessories, which were worn by an eclectic mix of male and female models. The audience seemed to have a mixed range of feelings about the various pieces of clothing on display, however, judging from their reactions, the evening gowns, were indeed a crowd favourite.
One distinct element of the showing was the fact that not only was a multi-racial group of models used but that they all seemed truly excited to be a part of the show. After the show, the guests, members of the media and the events organisers got the chance to mingle during a chic after party. DancehallSoca took this opportunity to speak with some of the models involved in the event.
Model Rachel Herelle (who is also one of the new faces of Caribbean Airlines), stated that she was truly excited about being involved with this particular fashion event. She admitted that she loved all the apparel especially a beaded evening gown which she modelled.
Tracy Fortune, who also modelled, revealed that before the show began the excitement to display the outfits was in high gear in the backstage area. The Trinidadian-born model/singer told us that she felt fortunate (pun intended) to be apart of the extravaganza.
As the night progressed, and as all in attendance socialised, we were able to meet and greet with hair and make up design artist Jodi Llewellyn. When asked about Simon Duncan’s new fall line, Llewellyn assured DS that she believed that the collection will appeal to both American and Caribbean audiences. She added that she was impressed by the designs and looked forward to collaborating with Simon for her upcoming show.
The event saw many faces from the Caribbean entertainment fraternity who came in support of their fellow Caribbean arts entrepreneur. Such entertainment personnel included members of Bamboo Live TV, Kwasi Jones of the Soca/Reggae group “Southside”, entertainment manager Claudia Lyons, former H2Phlo vocalist Audie Hewitt and media personality Jeanille Bonterre.
Bonterre, a stylish, progressive, West Indian individual herself, offered this statement, “Simon Duncan represents true creativity and innovation in Caribbean couture”.
She loved that he kept it “real” and that he called the presentation, “Born in Brooklyn”. She also appreciated the fact that there were models of all ethnicities including Caribbean models represented at the show.
A very busy but content Duncan was indeed pleased with everything and stated that the team accomplished what they set out to do. He described the evening as a beautiful collection of decent people who came out to enjoy art.
DancehallSoca definitely enjoyed the art, the ambience and the people at the event and anyone wishing to view the line in person is free to check out Simon Duncan’s Studio at 964 Deane Street, Brooklyn, NY.
We wish to thank Simon, his event team and associates for the invitation to the show. Keep up the great art!!!
