Caribbean Carnival Meets Haute Couture: Karen DeFreitas Redefines Fashion at Paris Fashion Week 2024!

Get ready to be blown away by the sensational tale of Vincentian designer Karen DeFreitas and her incredible fashion escapade at Paris Fashion Week 2024! This fashion prodigy, the creative mastermind behind SOKA, has dropped jaws and turned heads with her mesmerizing Spring/Summer 2025 collection, “Canboulay.”

Inspired by the vibrant Caribbean carnival culture, “Canboulay” embodies the spirit of resistance and freedom, drawing from the iconic heritage of the region. With influences from the awe-inspiring Moko Jumbies, this collection boasts daring designs, intricate textures, and audacious details that blend Caribbean folklore with haute couture.

But wait, there's more! This isn't just a fashion statement; it's a celebration of Vincentian craftsmanship. DeFreitas worked alongside a talented lineup of local and regional artisans, ensuring her collection is bursting with community spirit and sustainable innovation.

Make some noise for Melanie Hyman from Home by Melanie Hyman, who has sprinkled her signature macramé magic, and Natasha Frankov from Krafitti, whose crochet creations add an earthy touch to the collection. Accessories are no ordinary adornments; they're crafted by inmates under the Grow In Time Foundation, transforming rehabilitation into art. The exquisite jewelry? Courtesy of Trinidadian talent Crystal Williams of Ivy and Iona.

But it doesn’t stop there! DeFreitas views her ingenious designs as a narrative, weaving together tales of Caribbean culture and unity. Her goal? To showcase the beauty of both the islands and their people, celebrating the African heritage and the resilient transformation.

As Soka takes center stage at Paris Fashion Week, it undoubtedly amplifies the voices of Caribbean creatives around the world. The “Canboulay” collection isn’t just fashion; it’s a historical celebration—with the power to elevate communities through artistic collaboration.

Stay tuned and stay inspired, because DeFreitas is leading a revolution on the runway—one that spills over with culture, elegance, and unbeatable Caribbean vibes!