Impressions: Style and Fashion at Sting

Words by Jesse Serwer, Photos by Varun Baker—

The 30th anniversary edition of Sting was one for the ages. For our full roundup from the night’s performances, see our “Impressions: Onstage At Sting’s 30th Anniversary” feature here.

At LargeUp we know that Sting isn’t just about the performances. It’s also about the clothes—from the tailored pieces artists have crafted just for the show, to the street fashions worn by attendees. Clashes like Ninjaman vs. Shabba and Kartel vs. Mavado are remembered for those artists’ memorable costumes just as much as for their content.

The veteran-heavy roster (Sizzla, Super Cat, Ninja, Josey Wales, etc.) at this year’s show definitely brought their A-game, with Ninja rocking not one but three eccentric looks. Sting staple Kiprich (who lost his status as Sting clash champion to the more conservatively dressed Blak Ryno) donned the most outlandish outfit of the night, looking like a figure out of Where the Wild Things Are in a grass suit.

The crowd at this year’s Sting was more diverse than ever, with international visitors and corporate Jamaica joining the hardcore dancehall crowd in bigger numbers than years past. Despite the changes, dancehall fashions both new and classic could be found in their usual abundance, from leather batty riders to khaki suits. Here, LargeUp photographer Varun Baker brings us some of the most interesting looks.

Rising dancehall star Alkaline’s suit could best be described as “dancehall in space”

Wyclef, on his suit and tie sh*t.

Vendela and Binta from Sweden’s Blackout dancers rep their set

Nails and ting…

The crowd at Sting was more diverse than ever.

Tommy Lee Sparta, backstage with his minions.

Female deejay Stacious in clashing gear, and friend

Batty riders everywhere…

Beenie Man arrives…

Ninjaman and his gang of ladies, in a pensive moment before his set.

Ninja’s ring game tun up…

Lady Saw’s outfit showcased her million-dollar legs

LargeUp inquired about Lady Saw’s outfit, so she gave us a better view.

Lady Saw’s spiked boots

A closer look at those boots…

Is that Macka Diamond or Major Lazer‘s sister?

It wasn’t on his head, but Super Cat brought his signature red bandana from the ’90s

Sizzla Kalonji went for a classic look evoking the ska era in a checkered blazer. No, that’s not Rick Ross, it’s Daddy Biggs of Barrington Levy’s Platinum camp.

Ninjaman backstage, in dancehall samurai mode

Dancehall legends Burro Banton (L) and Major Mackerel (R)

Another look at Alkaline’s spaceman suit

Eyelash game tun up!