Happy New Year!!!!
This year I am aiming to post *at least* once a month. I’m saying it here for accountability but if it doesn’t happen, it is what it is. Who are we to question God?
Band launch season has begun.
For those who are new to mas life, band launches are when mas bands (definition here) release their costumes for the next coming carnival. Just in case anyone is unclear, I’m a Londoner and so I’m referring to Notting Hill Carnival – 25th-28th August 2023.
If you’re interested in following the launches, I’d highly recommend following iLoveCarnivall on Insta.
The costumes
Let’s start with the basics. All costumes have the same starting point –
bodywear – The clue is in the name, it’s what you wear on your body
MONOKINI
Think of it as a one-piece swimsuit. It offers full body coverage (mostly) and is a great starting point for new masqueraders. In theory they should be easy to put on but there’s usually bare attachments which can make it a two man job.
Two Piece
A full coverage bra and standard panties. The bottoms can sometimes be upgraded.
This option is also quite popular with newbies. Don’t get it twisted though, this option is still just as intricately designed as the others
Wire bra
My personal fave. Wire bras make your boobs look FANTASTIC. They usually come with a standard bikini bottom, but most bands let you upgrade to a thong option for those of us who enjoy skinning out
However, wire bras come with quite a few strings which is great for security but can get a little confusing if you’re new to it.
For the mandem
Lads you haven’t been forgotten! You guys are offered shorts of varying lengths, with option to show off your chest or be modest and wear a vest. The shorts are usually pretty plain, so you’ll have to top it up with added extras
fEAthers – The real show stopper
Headpiece
(Yes it’s me) They sit on your head like a crown but come with strings to tie round the back of your head for security
Pros: They look good. Because of the height, you worry a little less about people with no feather etiquette. They also leave your shoulders and arms free to move about easily
Cons: It doesn’t matter how much foam the band attach to that front piece, you will end the day with a dent in your forehead and a crazy headache. If you’re a 6;30 and don’t look back kinda whiner, be mindful that you don’t topple over 😭
Backpack
(Yes it’s me, again) Backpacks sit on your shoulders, hence the name. They have strings that go under your armpits and tie behind your back
Pros: They’re my preference because of the drama they bring. Real stripper peacock vibes (iykyk).
Cons: They are HEAVY. Make sure you book a massage for the Tuesday because you’re definitely going to need it. You also have to consider the impracticality of them if you end up with a full bladder. If you’re a Frontline Franny, your feathers aren’t fitting in a portaloo
In both of these pictures I did frontline, which is why the feathers are so extravagant. Backline feathers are just as beautiful but smaller in stature. Some bands also offer leg feathers
Other
In addition to bodywear and feathers, costumes often come with some added pizzazz. Arm and/or thigh and lower leg cuffs, dripping in gems. They add a little jenny seh kwah to your costume. Howeverrrrr I am not a fan of leg pieces because I spend half my day pulling them back up and getting someone to retie them for me
Top tips
So now you know the different parts of the costume, here are some tips for choosing the right one for you
- Know your bank balance: There are bands selling costumes for £1,000 and there are bands selling costumes for £500. Don’t get yourself into debt over a carnival costume, it’s never that deep. Only buy what you can truly afford. Here in London we are lucky enough to have some incredibly talented designers who create beautiful costumes that won’t cost you a kidney, take advantage of that! Also keep in mind that all costumes require a deposit, the amount varies, but set aside at least £100 just in case
- Shop around: This isn’t super easy as there’s no set period of time for launches. They range from November till April which is a little frustrating. But don’t let bands scaremongering get to you, yes some sections may sell out quicker than others but no one sells out in a day.
- Pick a costume you love: This may sound obvious but I feel the need to say it anyway. The life of a masquerader isn’t cheap, if I were to calculate how much I’ve spent on carnivals I’d probably vomit blood. I say this to say, if you don’t absolutely love your costume the money spent will feel like a huge L. When you put on your costume you should feel beautiful (yes mandem, you can feel beautiful too x). Make sure you pick a costume that will make that happen
- Be aware of additional costs: Costumes have a base price, upgrading to wire bras or adding certain types of feathers/jewels may come at an additional cost so be prepared for that.
- Go to launches! Many are online but if a band is holding one in-person I’d highly recommend that you attend. No offence to mas bands and their photographers, but pictures can lieeeeee. Fabrics look different in person, you can see the detailing in the feathers. And honestly, the vibes are unmatched. Band launches are also a great way to meet new people, a lot of the folks there will probably be on the road, it’ll be nice to see a familiar face.
- Don’t get stressed: Easier said than done, I know. But carnival is meant to be a joyful experience, don’t let this first hurdle overwhelm you too much. There are plenty of carnival pages you can dm for advice (cheeky plug for iLoveCarnivall again), mas bands are super friendly on social media/email and are always happy to help. And of course, the lovely me!
I hope this has been helpful!
Until next time
HD x
theislandsuntold.com 