Return of the Rudeboy

As sharp menswear returns to the streets, Somerset House has curated an exhibition to celebrate where it all started in the Return of the Rudeboy. Brain-child of creative director Harris Elliot and Photographer Dean Chalkley, the exhibition is a celebration of the slick dress of Caribbean men in the 1980s. It captures modern-day men (and women) who have taken the Rudeboy style and attitude beyond a point of reference.

Vivid portraits show their flair in crisp jackets, pin-rolled trousers, pork pie hats and shoes so shiny you could see your face. Not to mention flourishes of floral cummerbunds, fresh air max, dazzling sock choices, and hats, again. Really, they’re everywhere. Also note: the cultural vibrancy is no longer exclusive to the Caribbean. See: Kanye-West-esque tunics by way of Africa.

Rudeboys are never boring and this exhibition isn’t either. Chalkley’s portraits hang inside vintage suitcases next to original photos from the 60s. Choice jackets have a pride of hanging place in rooms surrounded by sewing machines and pristine barbershop scissor sets. If that hasn’t got you putting on your shoes already, the fully-functional Rudeboy x CUTS Barbershop is essential to the fresh trim you will never see a Rudeboy without. 

Return of the Rudeboy is open for free at Somerset House until 25th August. Find out more here.

Images: Dean Chalkley.a

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