- Notting Hill Carnival's 60th anniversary takes place, drawing an estimated two million people in W10 and W11.
- Photographer Fabrice Bourgelle captures street-style looks, documenting classic characters, aunties, mas bands, and elder Rastas.
The Notting Hill Carnival, which began in 1966 as a response to the 1958 race riots, celebrated its 60th anniversary this weekend, attracting an estimated two million attendees. The event, rooted in Caribbean culture, showcases elaborate costumes, music, and community spirit.
Photographer Fabrice Bourgelle documented the festivities, capturing 50 standout street-style looks that reflect the vibrant contributions of Britain's Caribbean community. He noted, “In its 60th year, it felt particularly important to keep those communities – and the beauty and fashion they bring to the streets – firmly in focus.”2
The carnival's origins trace back to Trinidadian journalist Claudia Jones, who organized the first Caribbean carnival in Britain in 1959. It aimed to unite diverse communities in the wake of racial tensions. Over the years, the event has evolved, incorporating elements like masquerade bands and sound systems, which have become integral to its identity.
As the carnival continues to grow, it remains a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Caribbean diaspora in the UK, celebrating not just a festival, but a rich cultural heritage that has become a vital part of London's identity.
“Bourgelle's photographs document 'the classic characters, aunties, mas bands and elder Rastas bringing a spirit of togetherness and style,' he said. He added that in its 60th year, it felt particularly important to keep those communities and the beauty and fashion they bring to the streets firmly in focus.”
