When your editor contacts you on a Monday and asks if you could be in Barbados by the end of the week to represent the brand at their Fashion Festival – you cancel all of your commitments, figure out what your wardrobe will be, and wait to receive your travel arrangements!  This is exactly what happened to me last week, and I’m still basking in the afterglow of the Caribbean sun!  I’m excited to write that I got the chance to spontaneously experience Barbados culture, and it was everything!   I can’t give you an extensive list on what eateries to visit or where to shop because I was there for only a few days on business.  However, I can give you the scoop on a fun activity to try, an interesting Barbadian artist you should know, and some Caribbean designers to add to your fashion list.  Check out a quick summary of my Barbados adventure below!

During the trip, I had the chance to experience snorkeling in the Atlantic Ocean. At first I was hesitant because I didn’t bring the necessary products to wash my hair. But after some convincing from my travel mates, I gave in.  If you are ever in the Caribbean, you must experience this adventure.  There’s nothing like observing sea life in its habitat – especially in clear blue water.

Picture Credit: @trevon_went

While on this Barbados venture, my travel mates and I had the wonderful opportunity of connecting with an indigenous artist by the name of Sheena Rose.  This talented, vivacious young lady births art that reflects her view of the world.  Her work reaches beyond the Barbadian culture, and if you ever have the opportunity to view her paintings, I guarantee she has created a piece that will speak to you.  Just ask tennis star Venus Williams who owns one of Rose’s paintings from her “Town” series.  Check out Sheena and some of her work below.

Picture Credit: @samjahiman

The fashion in Barbados is a mixture of Caribbean culture and urban swag.  The looks were infused with vibrant colors, modern fabrics, and classic patterns.  Check out some of my favorite fashion moments below.

Picture Credit – @photosbyakira/@komacphotography African print dress by @kimmysticclo

Picture Credit – @photosbyakira – Swimwear by @legenderesort

Picture Credit – @trevon_went – Bridal Exhibition by @kimmysticclo

Collection by @haus_rvr

Below are a few looks I donned while in Barbados.

Aafin Off-the-Shoulder top, available here.

American Apparel Swimsuit, available here.

What A Breeze Pants, available here.

Barbados was everything I thought it would be and more. The people were interesting, the seafood was fresh, the colors of the land were vivid, and the culture was intriguing.  I would love to thank my EIC, Claire Sulmers, for presenting me with this amazing opportunity, IFF Barbados and also my super cool travel mates, Sharifa Murdock of Liberty Fairs, Ouigi Theodore of The Brooklyn Circus, Ron Oppong of Liberty Fairs, and Danielle Cooper of She’s A Gent. You were all a joy to be around, and your good energy was undeniable!  I look forward to many more Barbados Fashion Festivals with you guys!

Picture Credit – @trevon_went

Peace and Blessings,

Samjah Iman