Man's suit
Brand
Wales Bonner
Designer
Grace Wales Bonner
(born 1992)
Spring 2017
Wool, metal, pearl, and rhinestones
Museum purchase
Object number2016.86.1
Grace Wales Bonner states, “The aim with Wales Bonner is to bring Afro-Atlantic spirit into the idea of European luxury and elevate Black representation within fashion." This tuxedo is inspired by the Pan- Africanist leader Haile Selassie’s crowning as emperor of Ethiopia in 1930. The design melds British tailoring, Ethiopian history, the Akan people’s Adrinka symbology – the Duafe (comb) motifs embroidered and beaded in pearls represent idealized femininity in the menswear ensemble – and also points to Wales Bonner’s Jamaican roots. Selassie is a central figure in Jamaican Rastafarianism.
DescriptionMan's off white wool evening tuxedo suit with silver bullion wire embroidery in a leaf and vine pattern, pearl and rhinestone fringe embellishments; collarless cropped jacket; narrow cropped leg pantsExhibitions