Wondering What To Wear To Notting Hill Carnival – Grazia’s Aaliyah Harry Has You Covered

For as long as I can remember Notting Hill Carnival has been a key event in my life. Like a birthday party – I’ve attended and celebrated every year without fail. There are memories I have of being perched on my dad’s shoulders at 4 years old, mesmerised by the colourful bands while soca music pumped through the streets of West London. I even remember stomping my feet to the rhythmic beats while bounding alongside the bands and floats, holding onto my dad’s hand.

Whilst it's a full celebration, full of vibrancy and fun, it's important to remember Notting Hill Carnival’s roots. First and foremost, it is rooted in uplifting the black community. After a series of racially motivated attacks on the West Indian residents of West London's Notting Hill area in August 1958, Trinidadian human rights activist Claudia Jones decided to create a special gathering in an attempt to unify the community: Notting Hill Carnival. What started off as an idea to keep the resilience of a small community alive has evolved into a space for millions across the world to come together.

Of course, now I can no longer have a bird's-eye view from my dad’s shoulders, but as I’ve got older, my view of Carnival has become even clearer. Now more than ever, Carnival means a lot more to me. Being of Caribbean heritage, the whole event is a celebration of my culture. The soca music lifts my spirit and as I wave my St Lucian and Dominican flag in the air I feel pride, joy and unity. Whether I’m on a float sporting a feathered costume or in the crowd dancing to the music with strangers – it makes me happy. The whole event reminds me of home – the Caribbean islands St Lucia and Dominica. If for just a weekend I can feel a sense of home, I will take it.

If like me, you’re not featuring on a float this year or have a custom costume on the go – here are some ideas of what to wear to Carnival. Especially if this is your first Carnival, you must be prepared. It’s a long day full of fun – but you will be exhausted after. Top tip: comfy yet stylish gets you a long way and will ensure you can really enjoy yourself.

SHOP: Carnival Essentials