New York-based Theophilio directed by Edvin Thompson continued with a theme of tapping into his Jamaican heritage for the label’s spring 204 collection. Titled “Out of Many, One People,” Jamaica’s national motto celebrating its diverse culture, the collection touches on island vibes especially as informed by dancehall in particular music creative Sean Paul’s 2002 “Gimme the Light” visual.
More than just the island, the collection speaks to Thompson’s own cultural journey, shaped by his residences in Jamaica, New Jersey, and New York.
Commenting on the collection in a press release, he wrote, “When I embarked on the journey of sketching and sourcing fabrics for this collection, my mind wandered back to when I was 14, residing in New Jersey, and envisioning the world around me. My fascination with textures and prints took center stage, shaping how I aspired to present myself in this vast world. There were moments when I found the courage to express my style confidently, even as I navigated the challenges of understanding my own identity amidst the opinions of others.”
“This collection, I believe, is a continued celebration of identity. It represents the subsequent chapter following the homecoming theme, still carrying the banner for urban cities, along with the opulent sands and serene blue lagoons of Jamaica. I hold onto those nuanced memories as I ride the city bus to school, frolic in the park with my siblings, trace train tracks, and venture into suburban neighborhoods to admire those who enjoyed greater affluence than us.”
Check out some looks from the collection below photographed by César Buitrago.
