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True to unique craft and functionality, Jenny Polanco displayed a lovely collection as part of the event, “Couleur D’ Ailleurs de Africa al Caribe,” organized by Sabrina Grazouille, president of Saint Domingue Accueil, the association of francophones in the Dominican Republic. The event sought to emphasize the ethical and aesthetic views of fashion as cultural and artistic forms of expression, with nod to African history and contemporary style.
Sara Díaz, design coordinator for Blue Country Jeans in the Dominican Republic lent part of her private collection for the show along with several other women who carry strong ties to Africa, and fashion designer Evelyne René-Corail Valleray, known for her French-Caribbean design style, also provided pieces for the exhibition.
During the Jenny Polanco show, models floated down the runway in lightweight garments ideal for summer that amicably revealed vivid prints and beautiful textures. These looks were accessorized with beaded necklaces in three distinct colors: black, white, and yellow. Models carried geometric clutches that paid devotion to Africa’s signature bold shapes.
Sabrina Grazouille said of the event, “The common history of the Caribbean brings us back to Africa, India and Europe. There have been different dress codes, techniques to tie handkerchiefs, music and culture that is not a copy of the countries of origin but the result of a great diversity that has built Caribbean identity.” Event attendees were able to participate in dressmaking workshops, how to use the African cloth and how to tie handkerchiefs, earlier before the runway show. A historic and poetic view of Africa displayed throughout the event.
The following collection of photos were taken by Yael Duval during the Jenny Polanco fashion show on Tuesday, May 24th at the Salón La Cúpula, Bellas Artes:
