The annual Guyana Folk Festival, held during the pre-Labour Day festivities in Brooklyn, New York, got a fashion boost this year with Sonia Noel presenting her designs, alongside the three winners of Designers’ Portfolio 2012.
On Sunday, September 2, amid the buzz that comes with the Labour Day celebrations, all Guyanese, those of Guyanese descent, some Caribbean natives and Brooklyn well-wishers, gathered to affirm the presence of the Guyana flag in New York.
The strong display of Guyanese style headlined by Noel definitely caught the attention of the crowd.
Andy Cummings’ winning depiction of hassar curry kicked off the fashion segment in fine style. Shameeza Subrattie’s tribute to powerful mothers with her signature yellow, black, and green borrowed from the flag served as another fitting tribute to Guyanese identity. Mwanza Glenn followed with his accolade to Nubian pride, with his marriage of tropical glory and African majesty. The Designers’ Portfolio 2012 was well represented. “When I was invited to showcase my designs at the Guyana Folk Festival, I immediately thought of including the winners because if I am serious about the industry, I have to look at the big picture,” Noel posited.
The hallmark presentation came from the grand dame of Guyanese fashion, whose style speaks volumes.
Her classic Amerindian collage art applications were also prominently displayed with layers of seeds, beads and bamboo motifs. Noel never forgets to feature her interesting textile art through her unique tie-dye application.
The response was overwhelming as Caribbean fashion guru Richard Young rounded up the evening’s presentation for a very attentive and appreciative audience.