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I recently stumbled upon a captivating film titled “GARMS: Black Culture’s Influence on British Fashion.” Hosted by stylist and cultural commentator Ayishat Akanbi, this remarkable documentary embarks on a journey through the evolution of Black British fashion.
From the initial influx of Caribbean and African immigrants during the Windrush era and the 1950s, the film delves into the profound impact of culture, fashion, and style on the UK, shaping ideas of identity and influencing the inception of Black British culture.
Moreover, it explores how Black British culture has intersected with music, showcasing its role in defining design freedom, trend curation, and space creation. The documentary highlights its broader influence on the fashion scene, with brands making appearances on prestigious runways and forging impactful collaborations with personalities and other brands.
Paying tribute to trailblazers such as Trinidadian designer Althea McNish, Nigerian Amechi Ihenacho, and the esteemed Black British fashion icon Joe Casely-Hayford, the film features insightful interviews with notable figures including arts enthusiast and TV presenter Brenda Emmanus, musicians V V Brown and Lisa Maffia, and fashion designers Bianca Saunders, Martine Rose, and Foday Dumbuya. Streetwear CEO’s Mr Fully Paid and Clint 419 also lend their perspectives, adding depth to the narrative.
This documentary is skilfully crafted, offering a balanced perspective throughout. It provides valuable insights and is definitely worth viewing. Produced by BET International, the film is now accessible on My5, so be sure to tune in via your on-demand TV platform.
