Written by Jamila Powell
I unfortunately will not be making the flight across the big blue ocean to one of my most favorite events of all time, Trinidad Carnival. However, I do have some friends who will be whining on anything in my absence! With that said one of them is a newbie to the game, and I passed along some helpful hints, and thought huh this is some good info. So below are some critical tips in preparing for your carnival adventure!
Fete Attire: Rompers and shorts are your best bet! It gets super hot. So less is more, just let it be cute. Flip flops and flats are a must! Only wear wedges when you know the layout of a venue. I personally don’t like to wear wedges anywhere there is grass or a rocky surface. I wouldn’t suggest bringing any heels unless you plan on attending Brian Lara.
Jourvet Attire: Bring some old tennis shoes or buy some cheap ones. Wear some clothes (shorts and a shirt) that you don’t care about because you will get dirty. Bring a scarf or bandana to cover your hair and something to completely pin it up so it can be completely covered. It will get dirty!!!!!
Money: You may need to catch a cab to and from the airport. I think it’s about $25 each way. Most fetes have food. So get your money’s worth. I’d say $500 at the most and you will be good. On Monday and Tuesday you get snack and a lunch on the road. There really aren’t many options for food other then at the fete and hotel, specifically the hyatt. So be prepared for the Hyatt cost. Also bring money for airbrushing if you want to do something jazzy on carnival Tuesday.
Carnival makeup: A good resource is Youtube for ideas. Do some research now, so you are ready. Get your face jewels from Joanne fabrics. They can be applied with eyelash glue. If you plan on wearing lashes buy them and bring with you. If you are getting fancy lashes, order them now or buy them at the beauty supply store. (http://falseeyelashessite.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=2)
Panty Hose: You can get these from hooters. If you want to jazz it up buy a pair of fish nets and wear them under or over your hose.
Boots: This is your call. They aren’t the most comfy. If you decide to wear boots you may want to consider ordering them a ½ size bigger, buying gel inserts, and don’t forget socks. You don’t want them super tight but you don’t want your feet to hurt. You can also wear sneakers. If you want to decorate your boots consider the design. Typically we use a glue gun and glue our leg accessories that come with our costume to the front. Also bring a glue gun and glue. It can be helpful. There are tons of boot sites online. We typically order fromwww.carnivalkicks.com. Below are some other options.
***Do a search for a promotional code***
Example of a boot blinged out:
Here’s a site for ideas. This girl decorates boots for carnival:
http://www.bootsbyafrochic.com/
Items to bring: glue gun, glue, wristlet (you will need this for sure), sunscreen, glitter, bathing suits.
Monday wear: Some people wear their costume both days. I don’t. Some people create their own costumes which have a similar color or look as their actual costume. You will wear this on carnival Monday.
Some things to wear:
Bra tops always look cute or a bustier. You should be able to order your boots and Monday wear at the same spot.
FYI: www.trinidadcarnivaldiary.com is an awesome site for tips.
I hope this helps, and if you are going to the greatest show on earth, ENJOY!
