Meet one of Jamaica’s hottest new costume designers, Sherice Dixon
Behind the scenes, Carnival in Jamaica 2024 is probably in full effect. Designs are being submitted and the bands are planning how to blow our minds once again to get us to part with our money!
One of the newest designers on the scene is Jamaican born and raised Sherice Dixon. She is a prolific designer with a hunger to succeed. I caught up with her the other day to ask some questions.
When did you first decide to start your carnival costume design journey and what drove you to that decision?
I got into making carnival costumes in 2018 during college. It all started when I joined Xamaica International, a carnival group, in 2017. Working there introduced me to the carnival scene and how costumes are made. The music and the whole carnival vibe clicked with me, and I knew I wanted in.
How did you get started? Did you have training, mentors etc?
My time at Xamaica taught me a ton. The folks who were experienced in production taught me a lot, especially about feather placement. Once I had that down, everything else fell into place because I already had a creative background in fashion. I didn’t have a formal mentor, but I’d ask people for their thoughts on my designs from time to time. I was super motivated to keep creating and learn from each design I did.
How do you try to set yourself apart from the pack?
What makes my designs different is that I follow my own vision. Inspiration can come from anywhere, but I often get it from fabrics. When I find a great fabric, I dive into researching a lot and aim to do better than my previous designs. I’m not concerned about what everyone else is doing.
Which of your designs is your favorite?
Picking a favorite design is tough since each one I’ve done so far has something special that excites me. But I think my actual favorite hasn’t been released yet. Among the ones that are out, I’d say ‘Bush Viper’ for the New York carnival is my top pick. Even though I’m fond of the Belvedere costume for Miami, the backpack, headpiece, and the mix of gems and colors in ‘Bush Viper’ give it an extra edge
What are your future plans and goals?
Looking ahead, my goal is simple: get even better at what I do and become one of Jamaica and the Caribbean’s finest costume designers.
We look forward to a day where Jamaica moves boldly to create its own mas, distinct and unique. It starts with things like choosing local! We look forward to what Sherice will design for Jamaica carnival and beyond.
