London’s fashion scene wouldn’t be the same without this stylist to the stars

Stylist, dancer, movement director, model and so much more – we’re here for Ramario Chevoy. This multi-hyphenate artist always gets the street style bulbs flashing at London Fashion Week thanks to his experimental looks (the headscarves are a vibe) and he’s also in demand in music circles, working with everyone from anaiis to Nao. But closest to his heart is the personal project Island Bwoys, which addresses the lack of representation of Caribbean talents in the UK’s creative arts industries and a celebration of their influence, from the Windrush generation through to dancehall culture. Chevoy styles himself in this collaborative story with Sons of Craft and tells Nataal about his fearless approach to the fashion life.

Ramario wears Gucci full look, own jewellery.

 

Ramario wears Gucci full look, own jewellery.

 
 

Ramario wears Batch London suit, Gianfranco Ferre polo top from Cow London, Rob Zdero tie, adidas trainers, own jewellery.

What is an early fashion memory?

I remember being around eight years old and begging my mum to buy me these metallic Ruff Ryders denim shorts and matching gilet set that my uncle was selling in the back of his barbershop. Finally, my mum gave in and it became my favourite outfit for special occasions.

What was your route into styling?

I grew up in Nottingham, where I studied dance and would be in the dance studio sweating it out most of the time. But on the days I went into college for lessons I’d make an effort with my outfits and people always approached me saying they loved my style and asking to take my picture for their blogs. After a while, friends told me that they were seeing me all over Tumblr, which started me thinking. My two friends Payzee Mahmod and Charley van Purpz were respected stylists in London and so eventually their influence rubbed off on me and I decided to move down and start my journey as a stylist.

 

Ramario wears Bianca Saunders vest, Cow London trousers, Dr. Martens x Denim Tears shoes, own jewellery.

 

Ramario wears Bianca Saunders vest, own jewellery.

 
 

Ramario wears Bianca Saunders vest, own jewellery.

What have been some of your proudest professional moments?

So many. Going back to Jamaica to style, choreograph and feature in the video for Nao’s ‘Balance’ featuring Skillibeng. Choreographing and performing with Pauli the PSM for his opening set at a Harry Styles show at Wembley. Dancing for and styling Sampa the Great at Glastonbury. Styling Lila Ike for the Grammy’s. And styling Jamilah Barry for her Colors Studio performance, which I was over the moon about.

You started Island Bwoys in 2017. What’s the vision?

My mum is Jamaican and she made sure that I knew about my roots from a very young age, taking me to Jamaica numerous times. Jamaica has had such a huge impact on the world, from music to food to fashion. So, I set up Island Bwoys to highlight my culture and try to push it forward. The project spotlights Caribbean creatives in ways that the mainstream media won’t show you. I include people who model, sing, rap, skateboard, paint and much more, just to celebrate us. Plus, because I’m proudly Caribbean (my father is from Montserrat), I need people to understand that our experiences are different even to those of African descent. So far, we’ve shot four parts which have been featured by publications such as Aftopunk, Coy Culture and New Wave, and it’s ongoing. Initially I found more males than females to feature, hence the name, but the project is inclusive of all Caribbean creators of all genders.


“Always be unapologetically yourself”


How would you define your personal style?

One day I could be more masculine presenting, then the next day more feminine presenting – it depends on my mood, the weather and whatever I might have to do that day. And I love to experiment, whether that’s with textures, colours, patterns or silhouettes. That way, you can find a formula that works for you.

Ramario wears Herbie Mensah blazer, Bianca Saunders trousers, Kurt Geiger shoes.

 
 
 
 

Ramario wears Gant jacket, Bianca Saunders top, own jewellery.

 

What’s on your wish list right now?

Anything and everything from Bianca Saunders, Martine Rose and Wales Bonner. They are some of my favourite female British designers right now and even more-so because they are all of Jamaican descent.

What’s your advice for budding stylists?

I have a few lessons. Research stylists whose work you admire. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Have morals and standards, which is rare these days as people seem too quick to sell their souls just to be noticed. Don’t take things too personal, but know when things are personal. Be unapologetically yourself, work hard and go for it!