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JAM | Oct 11, 2024

Guinness Sounds of Greatness: Dancehall fashion clashes as boldly as the music

ABIGAIL BARRETT

ABIGAIL BARRETT / Our Today

Reading Time: 3 minutes
Guinness Brand Manager Nadine Hylton (left) and Neko ‘Bootleg Rocstar’ Kelly
(fourth from right) celebrate the eras of fashion with an unforgettable lineup of models. (Photo: Contributed)

Guinness Sounds of Greatness (GSOG) celebrates the exhilarating battle between sound systems and a fierce competition of style. In collaboration with the stout brand, fashion stylist Neko ‘Bootleg Rocstar’ Kelly curated looks that told the story of dancehall’s evolving fashion—from its early roots to its modern-day statement-making aesthetics.

“Style a style and style cyan spoil,” a famous line from iconic artist Buju Banton, rings true in the
Dancehall Sound Clash culture, where fashion is as much a part of the lifestyle as the music
itself.

Red-hot and ready to go! Model Renay Smith rocks a bold, leather halterneck
bodysuit layered with a corset and a mini skirt featuring metallic eyelet details, complete with
matching knee-high boots serving up the edgy sophistication of the 2020s. (Photo: Contributed)

With selectors and DJs leading the charge and known for their fearless approach to fashion,
these music icons have used bold outfits, custom pieces, and flashy accessories to express
their crew’s personalities. Furthermore, the sharply tailored suits and patent leather shoes of the
1980s to today’s oversized streetwear and luxury brands tell a unique part of Dancehall’s
cultural story throughout the eras.

Ultimately, GSOG has expanded beyond just music, incorporating fashion as a pivotal element
of the experience, acknowledging that dancehall is not just heard but also seen—its vibrant style
is as integral to the culture as the music itself.

The photo highlights:

Modelled by Jhenelle Hudson, this vibrant fuchsia bodysuit, paired with a bold black
and gold spiked bra, is a fun and fearless combination representing 2010s dancehall fashion.
The gold accents on her belt and bra add a touch of glamour to the look, while the figure-
hugging silhouette of the bodysuit ensures she’s turning heads. (Photo: Contributed)
This chic casual look with a touch of flair modelled by Camara Ellis features a light
blue denim set, highlighted by a fluffy, teal feathered halter top, bringing to life the early 2000s
era. The matching denim cap and large statement earrings tie the ensemble together, adding a
touch of street-style sophistication. (Photo: Contributed)
Model Sasha Lee dazzles in a head-to-toe gold ensemble that radiates the confidence
and glamour of 90s women’s dancehall fashion. The metallic fabric of her crop top and high-
waisted shorts, along with the thigh-high boots, exudes fierce energy elevated by her matching
accessories. (Photo: Contributed)
Model Antonio Newman serves up timeless style in loose grey pants with an argyle
sweater vest and a striped button-down shirt. A bold splash of colour from his red beret and
matching shoes adds a pop of personality, elevating this 80s-inspired look. (Photo: Contributed)
Model Adori Lewis is bringing the heat with a 90s dancehall-inspired look. This vibrant,
printed matching set pays homage to the legendary Shabba Ranks, while stacks of jewellery
add an extra touch of swagger and sophistication. (Photo: Contributed)

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