The legendary Notting Hill Carnival is just around the corner, and if you're planning on hitting up the annual celebration of Caribbean culture, let's talk outfits!
In the past we've seen huge celebrities and fashionistas take to the streets for the festivities including Jourdan Dunn, Cara Delevingne, and Lily Allen looking amazing in their ultra-vibrant, carnival-ready outfits.
© GettyMaking it even easier for you to have the best experience this year, the official Notting Hill Carnival app is free to use and you can download it for a live, GPS-tracked map showing all of the floats and their locations on the August Bank Holiday, plus food vendors, toilets, transport links and sound systems. You can also post in-app to meet fellow carnival-goers and vote for your favourite bands.
When is Notting Hill Carnival?
The carnival, which began in 1966, traditionally takes place during the August Bank Holiday, and this year is no different. The festivities start on Saturday 24th August and finish on Monday 26th.
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© GettyWhat do you wear to Notting Hill Carnival?
Feathers, sequins and neon brights are firmly on the agenda for the street festival. The vibe is celebratory and playful - great news for people who like to drop a dose of dopamine into their outfits. You can't also talk about Carnival without mentioning the one and only Rihanna, whose appearances at the Crop Over Festival in her native Barbados are legendary. If in doubt, channel your inner Riri.
© Instagram/@badgalririHow we chose the pieces:
- Colour: We've scoured the internet's top fashion sites for pieces in fluorescent, metallic or just general larger-than-life shades. The procession is filled with colour and glitz, and so we've searched for both high street and designer picks that will help you put together a seriously high-octane ensemble, bound to get you noticed.
- Texture: This plays a key part in carnival costume - feathers, sequins, beading and the like. We've included pieces that champion crochet, chainmail-effect meshes, fraying and super shiny finishes.
Annie's Ibiza Boot Electric Blue
Terry de Havilland
The Details
- Composition: Leather
- Sizes: 37-42
Editor's Note
Comfort is key for bopping around carnival so we'll be eschewing heels in favour of spotlight-stealing yet comfortable cowboy boots such as these.
Fun fact: detailed pattern here is inspired by a vintage Terry de Havilland boot that is currently in display in the V&A Museum in London.
Naima Crochet Top
Agua Bendita
The Details
- Composition: 100% Cotton
- Sizes: S-L
Editor's Note
Crochet is a carnival staple, and this itsy bitsy bikini top (and matching skirt £148) is perfect fare.
Agua Bendita is a Colombian label are known for this statement swimwear and lustworthy summer pieces.
Tommy Beaded Faux Leather-Trimmed Satin Shoulder Bag
Staud
The Details
- Composition: Leather & Satin
- Sizes: One Size
Editor's Note
As beautiful as a work of art, and roomy enough to stash all your Carnival essentials.
Embrace colour-clash and team this beaded beauty with eclectic hues and neon tones.
The Pink Mercury Trousers
Hildur Yeoman
The Details
- Composition: 78% PES 22% EA
- Sizes: XS-L
Editor's Note
Icelandic brand Hildur Yeoman specialise in eclectic, conversation starting pieces that we want to wear all year round.
There are also two different styles of matching top available. Add to cart, at once!
Eneidao Fringed Denim Shorts
Isabel Marant
The Details
- Composition: 80% Cotton, 20% Hemp
- Sizes: FR32-FR44
Editor's Note
Micro-denim shorts are a must have for Carnival, and these cute itsy bitsy pair also come in a Mid Blue denim.
We love the wispy fringing that tickles the hem giving a cute retro feel.
Arizona One Piece Swimsuit
Oceanus
The Details
- Composition: ECONYL® Lycra
- Sizes: XS-XXL
Editor's Note
For instant Caribbean beach energy, Oceanus' embellished swimwear is a perfect choice.
Team with an itsy bitsy mini skirt and platform sandals and get dancing.
Small Kensington Hobo Puff Bag
Kurt Geiger
The Details
- Composition: Patent Leather
- Sizes: One Size
Editor's Note
We adore this bright orange shade, but also clock the brass eagle head and crystal detailing too.
Comes in three other colours, but this is the only hue we want to sport come Carnival weekend.
Parklife Candy Crochet Low Back Dress
Elsie & Fred
The Details
- Composition: 100% Acrylic
- Sizes: XS-L
Editor's Note
Designed with a low back to showcase your shoulders and little cap sleeves, this dress isn't just a fantastic fit but is comfortable, durable.
The beauty of this dress is that is that styling is a doddle - let it be the star of the show and team with pared back accessories.
Endless Summer Bracelet - Coral Reef
Maya Brenner
The Details
- Composition: Watermelon tourmaline, gold fill beads
- Sizes: 6" with a removable 2" gold fill extender
Editor's Note
Don't forget the perfect finishing touches to any outfit, some gorgeous beaded jewellery.
Each Maya Brenner piece is handmade in sunny Los Angeles, for a touch of California cool.
Yumi Faux Suede Laser Cut Skirt - Red
Kai Collective
The Details
- Composition: 95% Polyester, 5% Spandex
- Sizes: XS-3XL
Editor's Note
London based brand Kai Collective make bright pieces in super silhouettes that we want to wear all year round.
The glory of this laser cut faux suede skirt lies in its versatility - team with a baggy t-shirt up top, or whack over a pair of jeans for casual Carnival vibes.
Jamaica String Bikini Top
Etsy
The Details
- Composition: 82% Microfiber, 18% Spandex
- Sizes: XS-XL
Editor's Note
Ah, a Carnival classic, the Jamaican flag inspired bikini top. Pair with a denim mini skirt and hit the streets.
Also available in a jazzy gold option. We'll take both please.
The Fara
Jimmy Fairly
The Details
- Composition: Acetate
- Sizes: One Size
Editor's Note
Just because you're having lots of fun doesn't mean that you can neglect your sun protection. These sweet sunnies protect your eyes and look lovely too.
Available in 3 coloured lens combinations, we're mad about this green acetate and pink gradient lenses combo.
Why you should trust me?
Working in fashion is simultaneously the best and worst thing that’s ever happened to me because spending all day surrounded by gorgeous pieces and trends lit a fire under my (already substantial) shopping habit. I love to shop. I live to shop, and summer ensembles are my jam. In a previous life, I worked in Personal Shopping, and I’m the person to take out with you if you want to be wholeheartedly talked into a purchase.
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