From the islands of Trinidad and Tobago to the vibrant streets of Philadelphia, Carnival Season has arrived, bringing with it an infectious rhythm that pulses through every corner of the city. As the Trinidad Carnival 2025 approaches, the air is filled with anticipation and excitement. This iconic event is not just a celebration of music and dance; it’s a vibrant display of culture and color, creativity and artistry, and most importantly, stunning costume design.
Photo credit—Juup Schram (Unsplash)
These aren’t just outfits; they are masterpieces, stitched with history and woven with pride. Behind these breathtaking works of art are talented designers who pour their hearts into every detail. Designers like Honamic Designs and Touch by Nicole showcase the craftsmanship and creativity that goes into creating these stunning pieces.
The Lost Tribe, known for its innovative and culturally rich designs, has been a standout in Trinidad’s Carnival scene. Their costumes often blend traditional storytelling with modern flair, as seen in their themes that draw inspiration from Trinidad’s unique cultural heritage.
Photo credit—Juup Schram (Unsplash)
The Lost Tribe, a prominent Carnival band in Trinidad and Tobago, since its inception, has consistently explored a wide range of annual themes, each reflecting a unique aspect of Trinidadian culture and heritage. Through the years, they’ve had intriguing themes such as The Revolution (2016), Riddim (2017), Seven (2018), and Taj (2019) inspired by the grandeur of the Taj Mahal, blending Eastern elegance with Caribbean flair. There’s more…
Photo credit—Juup Schram (Unsplash)
The 2021 custom-themed Lavway, designed by Peter Elias, Jeneile MacCarthy, and Briana MacCarthy emphasizes the beauty of life through vibrant colors and textures.
In 2022, the Hope costume, designed by Naas Mohammed, was said to convey a message of resilience and optimism.
In 2023, Nathalie Fonrose designed 202WEA, a futuristic take on unity and community.
The 2024 costume, named Fly, inspired by the freedom and beauty of flight, was designed by Atiba Boede
This year, 2025 costume design by JP Richardson, themed Found is inspired by water and movement, featuring hand-dyed fabrics and watercolor effects. According to JP Richardson, “The costume has drips and splashes on it as if falling from the backpack… The overall effect is truly beautiful.”
Celebrities like Rihanna, who frequently attends Caribbean Carnival events, bring high fashion to the festivities. Her influence on Carnival-style is undeniable, and her love for the culture is evident in her stunning appearances at events like Barbados’ Crop Over. The Lost Tribe’s designs have even caught her attention, showcasing the global appeal of Trinidad’s Carnival scene.
Photo credit—Juup Schram (Unsplash)
As Trinidad prepares for its Carnival, other parts of the world are also gearing up for their celebrations. Did you know that Carnival is also celebrated in Calabar, Nigeria? This global phenomenon highlights the universal appeal of carnival culture.
As we look forward to Trinidad Carnival 2025, we want to hear from you. Who is your favorite costume designer? Are you attending any Carnival events this year? What are you wearing? Share your stories and photos with us; would you?
