“Not My London” is a conceptual collection focused on portraying the authentic experiences of growing up in London’s ethnically and culturally rich areas.
This collection aims to shed light on political issues such as gentrification, which threatens the cultural authenticity of these areas, and the lack of diversity in predominantly white spaces. It also highlights the aspects of British Caribbean culture. Despite the discomfort these topics may evoke in some, I believe that it is vital to engage in this conversation, and it starts with “Not My London.”
Designed by a Black British, West Indian Londoner, this collection explores the themes of nostalgia, reflecting on my cultural upbringing in the city. Each piece in the collection is named after a significant London area from my childhood. These locations also informed my research and were some of the final shoot locations.
This collection is my story.
Let me tell you about my London.
THROUGH THE LENSE OF A LONDONER.
This is my story of being Black British growing up in London. ‘Not My London’ explores the topics of politics, British Caribbean culture, gentrification, the importance of diversity within white spaces and so much more.