Hey my trendy teens, did you know that during the three hundred-plus years of slavery, the only time our ancestors were given new fabrics to make clothing was at Christmas? They didn’t have the privileges we have today, to shop online or to walk into a boutique and pick up a dress. So we honour our ancestors who fought for both our emancipation, our independence and our right to shop as we celebrate Jamaica 53, ‘Proud and Free’.

It’s the beginning of the holiday week, and tons of events will be taking place, what to wear to these events is a yearly issue we all face. Below are a few examples of events fit for the holiday week and what to wear to such events. This is your weekly dose of Rash-On Fashion:BeachFamily Reunion/BarbecueFamily Fiesta/Amusement ParkGrand Gala

A lot of people use Emancipation and Independence Day as an opportunity to catch up on sun, sand and sea. If you are one of those persons, then a monkini will be perfect for you as it is more conservative, but still has a flirty edge. Pair it with a kimono made by a Jamaican designer, preferably in Jamaican colours also to show of your patriotic side.

Public holidays are the some of the few times family members are able to gather. Many persons will be having family reunions and barbecues. These events are less formal so the simpler you look, the better. A versatile high-waist denim shorts and a lace crop top would be perfect for such an occasion. Pair it with gladiator sandals and make all your cousins jealous.

The holidays are a perfect time to take fun trips to an amusement park or a family fiesta. Even if you are only baby-sitting the smaller ones, it is important to look good. Rock a romper or jumpsuit, a cute lace one would be perfect. Pair this with espadrilles wedges and you are good to go.

Celebrate Jamaica’s 53 by attending Grand Gala on August sixth. This is a day to deck out in your black, green and gold. However simple cotton t-shirts are somewhat tacky. Be fashion forward by rocking a custom made, water colour maxi dress. This dress should either be tie and dyed or hand painted. Add a pair of flats and celebrate the struggles of our ancestors.

Enjoy ’emancipendence’, Jamaica 53; proud, free and fashionable.