Let's chat Carnival footwear. Trinidad Carnival 2027 band-launch season is upon us, so this is a timely discussion.
If you're reading this thinking you cannot stand in your most comfortable heels for an entire night out (three-plus hours), then go straight for the flats of your choice, boots, sneakers, whatever. You're a comfort queen and that's fine. A major part of the road experience is being comfortable in whatever you're wearing.
Even with flats, here's top-tier advice: get your shoes at least a week before and wear them around the house. Thank me later.
Marie Collette crossing the stage, Trinidad Carnival
Hot gyals, assemble. Whether it's "beauty is pain" or you're genuinely comfortable in heels, here's the advice: block-shaped heels are a better fit for the road (unless you're a thin-heel girl, in which case you must be God's favourite). Don't go for an exact fit, go half a size up. A block heel handles the road surface and potholes far better, so you stay balanced. Avoid closed-toe heeled boots; a peep-toe bootie breathes better. Friction plus heat from your toes rubbing inside a shoe is not the vibe. For the same reason, skip leather or that transparent plastic material, heat and those don't mix.
A heel with a bit of a platform at the front also serves you well: while chipping down de road, your feet get an extra layer of protection from the impact.
Kalista in black Monday wear, Trinidad Carnival
If there's a way to do both, half the day as a hot gyal and the final half in flats or sneakers, that is the absolute perfect option.
Either way, sis, you're a queen. Most importantly, once you have the time of your life on both days, that's all that matters.
Guest blogger: @mary.esdelle