2024.11.29

[Not Yet Available in Japan] Celebrating Caribbean Traditions with "The Cloth": Weaving a Post-Colonial Narrative with the World's Rarest Cotton

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This September, "TRANOÏ," the only officially recognized joint exhibition during Paris Fashion Week, made its debut in Japan. Among approximately 150 brands showcased at "TRANOÏ TOKYO," the standout was the brand "The Cloth," deeply rooted in Caribbean traditions.

Founded in 1986 by Robert Young, the brand saw a new company established in 2017 when anthropologist Sophie Bufton joined Robert and took over as CEO. Since then, it has grown into one of the premier design brands representing the Caribbean.

The brand uses rare Sea Island Cotton, unique to the Caribbean, blending traditional "anti-fit" techniques with their distinctive appliqué style. It carries forward the Caribbean tradition as wearable art that reflects the culture of refugee communities.

In this interview, CEO Bufton shared insights into the brand's aesthetics and distinctive appliqué techniques.

PROFILE

Sophie Bufton

The Cloth CEO　
Originally from the UK, she became captivated by the culture of the Caribbean islands while conducting anthropological research, which led her to start academic studies. After meeting Robert Young, the founder of "The Cloth," she joined the brand and has since focused on preserving the tradition of "Made in the Caribbean." She advocates for establishing a 100% Caribbean-sourced value chain for Sea Island Cotton (WISIC).

Encountering the Caribbean—From Anthropologist to Fashion

How has "The Cloth" evolved?

"The Cloth" was born in 1986, long before I came on the scene. In 2014, I was invited by Professor Crystal Brown, head of the dance department at a small liberal arts college in the U.S., to conduct anthropological research on "masking" in dance and performance. She encouraged me to study anthropology at the New Waves! Institute, founded by Makeda Thomas in Trinidad and Tobago.