Many immigrants moved from the West India to London in the 1940S and 1950S, many settled in Brixton. The Caribbean music, style, clubs and culture they brought gradually became an integral part of Brixton today. The former president of South Africa Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela visited in 1996, reinforcing Brixton as the international African cultural center. It is where the newspaper ‘Voice’ and the radio station, ‘Choice FM’ are based. Brixton Academy (The biggest music venue in South London), The Fridge and independent cinema Ritzy are also some of the landmarks. But yet, unemployment rate, crime and drugs had long been alarming issues in Brixton, especially in the 1980S. Policemen and local residents were frequently in conflict in the 1970S, and then episodes reoccurred in 1981 and 1996.

Music, alcohol, women and gambling is the concept of Wacko Maria this season. After the ‘London’ A/W 2008 collection, Wacko Maria is taking the historical reference of Brixton as the backdrop of the latest collection, titled ‘Jamaican in Brixton — Pictures of Smoke’.

The jumper and satin jacket of this collection are already available in THINK SILLY store. Satin jacket features America pin-up girl embroidery and ‘Thank You Girl’ slogan at the back; Sweat shirt printed with ‘Rock Steady’ on its chest; Zip parka with Saint Mary emblem which is a signature of the label; Reversible parka in towel material with ‘Upsetter Guilty Parties’ slogan embodied at its back, a skull and Saint Mary embroidery on the chest. Wacko Maria clothing collection is known for being well made, its prints and material also bring constant surprises.

Text: BEBOP | Translation: dilettante
Photo: Kimio Ng
Update: 28 Apr 2009

THINK SILLY STORE
Shop 8, G/F, Block B, 18 Ka Yip Street, Chai Wan, Hong Kong.
+852 2898 2199