Jawara Alleyne, born in Jamaica and raised in the Cayman Islands, is a London-based fashion designer whose work intricately weaves Caribbean heritage with contemporary design. After earning a BA in Fashion Design and Marketing from the London College of Fashion and an MA in Design from Central Saint Martins in 2020, Alleyne launched his eponymous label in 2021 under the Fashion East initiative. His designs are deeply rooted in identity, often exploring themes of masculinity, cultural mythology, and sustainability. Alleyne’s commitment to circularity is evident in his use of upcycled materials and deadstock fabrics, reflecting practices from his upbringing where repurposing was a way of life.
Alleyne’s signature aesthetic is characterized by deconstructed silhouettes, safety-pin embellishments, and a fusion of punk and pirate-inspired elements. His collections often feature draped jersey fabrics, slashed textiles, and vibrant color palettes that echo the hues of the Caribbean. Notable collaborations include partnerships with artist Alvaro Barrington at Tate Britain and a footwear collaboration with Timberland, integrating the brand’s iconic boots into his Spring/Summer 2025 collection. Alleyne’s designs have been donned by celebrities such as Rihanna, who has publicly praised him as her “new favorite designer,” as well as Shakira, for whom he created custom looks for her 2025 world tour.
Recognized for his innovative approach, Alleyne was nominated for the New Establishment Womenswear award at the 2024 Fashion Awards. Beyond his design work, he contributes to the fashion community as an educator at Central Saint Martins, nurturing the next generation of designers. Alleyne’s commitment to storytelling, sustainability, and cultural representation positions him as a distinctive voice in contemporary fashion, challenging norms and redefining modern masculinity through his craft.