XVIBES/JC – Photos: JERMAINE CRUICKSHANK
The energy surrounding Carnival 2026 has officially ignited, and leading the charge is none other than YUMA, who unveiled their opulent presentation “LUXE: A Lavish Escape” at the International Waterfront last Saturday. The event set a new benchmark for band launches in Trinidad, blending high fashion with cultural authenticity and Caribbean flair. From the moment guests entered the transformed venue, it was clear YUMA was offering more than a costume showcase they were delivering an immersive, elevated Carnival experience.
A dazzling cast of models took the stage in luxurious, jaw-dropping designs that reflected the heart of Trinidadian identity. What made the presentation even more powerful was the band’s bold move to cast 90% fresh faces — a decision that highlights YUMA’s commitment to authenticity and opportunity. “For our 2026 presentation of LUXE: A Lavish Escape, 90% of the models we featured on stage were fresh faces discovered through our casting call. Many had never walked a runway before, and a lot of them had never even played mas. It was a conscious decision rooted in our commitment to giving opportunities to emerging talent and helping to discover the next wave of creatives in the industry,” said Tanya Gomes, co-director of YUMA. These new models, she added, will continue to grow with the brand as it evolves.
YUMA didn’t just stop at costumes they curated an entire experience. With premium bars, stylish décor, and an effortlessly chic layout that allowed for clear stage views and quick access to refreshments, every detail was crafted to provide comfort and luxury. Patrons came dressed to impress, mirroring the theme of indulgence and escapism that ran through every element of the launch. The mood was celebratory, elegant, and unmistakably YUMA.
Musically, the night pulsed with the sounds of Carnival thanks to an expert DJ lineup that kept the energy soaring even after the final model left the stage. Designers delivered exactly what the people wanted costumes that fused style with wearability, appealing not just to sleek, high-fashion revelers but to everyday masqueraders looking to make a statement on the road. With LUXE: A Lavish Escape, YUMA has once again proven why they remain at the forefront of the Carnival movement setting the pace, raising the bar, and redefining what it means to play mas in style.
