#LCFBHM: Unique Moore - West Indies Diaspora
- Written byLubna Hussain
- Published date 12 October 2022
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The Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is known as the greatest street parade in the world. It began with slaves mocking their oppressor’s sartorial aesthetic as an act of defiance which turned into a liberated celebration. Slaves were banned from attending extravagant events held by the privilege, the carnival was then introduced as a place for those to come together and build their own ways of celebrating by wearing costumes, dancing, singing, and making fun of the people who held the masquerade balls.
We caught up with alumna Unique Moore who studied BA (Hons) Fashion Design Technology: Womenswear on her collection 'West Indies Diaspora'. Unique explores her Trinidadian heritage through references of Caribbean dancehall style in mergence with the mockery of British sartorial aesthetic (suits). She challenges the act of defiance and rebellion to western societies standard of ‘acceptable’ in homage to Trinidadian carnival.
What made you decide to combine 'ghetto yute’ / dancehall style with British sartorial aesthetic?
I wanted to combine the two styles as a form of rebellion to western societies standard of ‘acceptable’ in homage to Trinidadian carnival that started with slaves mocking their oppressor’s sartorial aesthetic as an act of defiance which turned into a liberated celebration.
You previously worked with GRM Daily on a Peng Black Girls Rated Awards Music Video in 2021. Tell us more about this, how was your experience working with Trinidadian and Ghanaian Costume Designer: Melissa Simon Hartman?
It was great! A very easy going and fun experience. Seeing her put the looks together on the artist and dancers was amazing as the budget wasn’t very big but she made do of things that you may not thought to use to create the amazing looks such as foil, wire, and earrings as footwear accessories.
What does being a black creative mean to you?
To me it means being proud, representing your culture and identity unapologetically in any way you choose to. I definitely would like to continue to incorporate more of my heritage in the work I do as I feel the most satisfied with my work when it has a deep meaning to me.
Did you encounter any particular challenges during the production of your final showcase if so, how did you overcome them?
Definitely; collections in general are just a up and down process as it’s a lot of trial and error which tests your resilience. I overcame them by positively reflecting on why I’m in the creative industry and why I want to continue being in it. "I want to help create space for people that come from backgrounds like mine." Whilst I utter the words of affirmation, I remember the joy it brings me.
What are your hopes and plans for life after graduation? Do you wish to collaborate with other creatives?
Since graduating, I have attained a job at Burberry as a Trim developer graduate which I’m extremely grateful for and excited to see what new things I learn and get to explore.
I definitely want to continue collaborating with creatives as that’s the best part about the creative industry in my opinion. Getting to work with others as you share ideas to create something magical is always a joy.
Gallery
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Models looking through shop window | Unique Moore
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Models dressed in Unique's clothing at night market | Unique Moore
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Model shown from behind with white studio background | Unique Moore
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Portrait image of two models wearing final garments in front of pan African coloured background | Unique Moore
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