Queens

The costume design collection for an “alternative Queens Jubilee” critically examines royal regalia through a postcolonial lens, deliberately juxtaposing traditional British monarchical elements with Afrocentric and African Caribbean diasporic references. The pieces deconstruct and reimagine the power dynamics embedded in royal dress, combining the look of luxurious textiles and established royal symbolism with fabric elements and imagery that reference the Black British diaspora, as well as my preference for repurposing DIY materials. This intentional hybridization creates a powerful dialogue between historical pageantry and a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, interrogating questions of power, representation, and cultural identity. Through the selection of opulent fabrics and cultural signifiers such as cowrie shells, the collection serves as both a celebration and commentary on royal representation, demonstrating how ceremonial wear can not only embrace diversity but also challenge traditional hierarchies while honoring diasporic traditions.