The Cooler Edition

This is the second installation of our carnival wardrobe capsule. Two weeks ago, we looked at outfit options for the all-inclusive fete, which basically entailed bringing your styling “A” game to the party. This week, we’re taking a slightly different approach. Now this is not to say that your “A” game is not going to show up, but we’re shifting the focus from making a fashion statement to dressing for ultimate fete enjoyment. Welcome to the Cooler Edition!
The cooler fete for the purposes of this article, refers to the original fete. You remember what that is, don’t you? The fete from which ticket prices did not break your bank account; hair and make-up was not required; and your feet only hurt from “jumping up” as opposed to “jumping up in heels”. The entire atmosphere was one of sheer abandon. Enticing, isn’t it? Well, let’s go!

I can’t think of any item of clothing that is sexier, edgier, more chic to attend one of these fetes than a pair of denim shorts. They pair well with any style of top and look absolutely smashing with sneakers, boots or sandals… footwear necessary and guaranteed for maximum enjoyment. The added bonus is that most of us already own a pair of denim shorts… This outfit option saves you money.

Now don’t think that I did not take into consideration that there are some of us who are not comfortable with baring legs, whatever the reason may be. In this case, I will suggest that wearing a pair of jeans, which most of you already own. And yes, I know that you wear jeans for many a casual occasion but we are focusing on comfort, aren’t we? Trust me, coupling your favourite pair of jeans with a sexy top and completing the look with comfortable wedge heels; loafers or flat sandals will give you just the right amount of effortless chic needed for any one of the original fetes.

Speaking of original fetes, there is one that stands out in my mind, even as I explore these outfit options with you. One of the parties that has survived the evolution that the fete scene has undergone in our country and is still emerging as one of the more popular events on the carnival calendar, is no other than Army fete. The very survival of this event, especially in the wake of deaths to original fete greats such as Licensing, Fire and WASA, I thought it only fitting to touch on options specific to this affair. Seems that I am on the same page with the Army Fete 2017 promoters, since they have come up with a line of T-shirts that are on sale as we speak. T-shirt line withstanding, you can’t go wrong with army green, so use it as your base and build your outfit from there.

There is another type of original fete… one original cooler fete that beats back all in this category and has also stood the test of time, and this event is Panorama semi-finals, otherwise known as Pan Semis. Every carnival enthusiast knows that this event is not to be missed, whatever the attire. Where the goal here is strictly to enjoy this whole day savannah party, when it comes to outfit selections at Pan Semis, a new culture has emerged. Within recent years, groups and organizations have branded themselves at this event, in the form of group T-Shirts and Tops. If you belong to such fun bunches of individuals, half of your problem is solved. My advice to you, therefore, will be to put your own spin on your group ensemble. Whether you cut, tie, or wrap your tee or top, do so for maximum comfort and effect.

Lastly, I must touch on the cooler party that is conceptualized around water. Whether this fete takes place poolside, by the beach or on a boat, the emphasis and focus is on beach wear. They key element to putting together an outfit for this type of event is striking a balance between beach casual and party glam, all while taking comfort and your maximum enjoyment into consideration. The two gorgeous individuals in the image below perfects this balance perfectly.

Could you tell that the cooler fete; the original fete holds a special place in my heart? This is because there is absolutely no pretence, no posturing, to be had at this type of party. Everyone attending has the same goal… to free up and enjoy! What say you? Will you be joining us? Yes? Well put on your comfortable chic, my girl, and just rock and come een!