6 Caribbean Fashion Brands Making Their Mark on the Global Stage

Learn how these designers blend tradition and innovation to create some truly remarkable products. 

Bene Caribe (Trinidad, Washington, D.C. ) 

Founded by Trinidadian designer Abby Charles, Bene Caribe is a conscious-fashion brand, and ethical consumption is embodied in each piece. Many pieces incorporate batik fabric, made using traditional wax-resist dyeing techniques. 

Carolina Socías (Dominican Republic) 

Before launching her namesake brand in 2013, Carolina Socías worked with Dominican lifestyle brand Jenny Polanco for 11 years. Her label specializes in durable, flattering swimwear and separates. Her goal, she says, is to empower her clients by emphasizing their strengths. 

Jam + Rico (Jamaica, Puerto Rico, New York City)

Established in 2016, Jam + Rico jewelry is known for its bold and colorful designs. The name Jam + Rico is a nod to the designer Lisette Scott’s roots in Jamaica and Puerto Rico. She and her team take annual trips to Caribbean destinations to find inspiration in the culture, music, and landscape. 

Shoma The Label (Trinidad)

The clothing from this Trinidad-based company is all handmade on the island, and each collection tells authentic local stories through fabric and design. The newest range, Casa Caribe, pays homage to the cultural intersection of Trinidad and Colombia. 

Tialani (Barbados)

This minimalist ready-to-wear brand is based on Barbados. Founder Tia Olton’s designs include swimwear, loungewear, and resort wear for both men and women in a neutral palette.

Paper Papayas (Trinidad, Las Vegas)

Since 2020, Trinidadian designer Shae Rogers has specialized in handmade clay-polymer jewelry inspired by Caribbean flora and fauna — and the bold, strong women in her family.

A version of this story first appeared in the December 2024/January 2025 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline “Island Style.”