ARISAR Representing Caribbean Luxury on a Global Stage x UNESCO Creative Caribbean Program

ARISAR Represents the Caribbean at Coterie New York in Collaboration with the UNESCO Creative Caribbean Program

From February 17th to 20th, 2024, ARISAR proudly participated in Coterie New York, one of the world’s premier fashion trade shows for luxury and artisanal fashion. Held at the Jacob Javits Center, just steps away from Times Square, this prestigious event brought together a curated selection of international fashion brands, renowned buyers from stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Anthropologie, and Shopbop, and emerging voices in global resort wear.

ARISAR’s presence at Coterie was made possible through a collaboration with the UNESCO Creative Caribbean Program, a regional initiative supporting Caribbean creatives to expand their visibility and commercial opportunities worldwide. Represented by Nikita Weir, the brand’s founder and designer, and Leona Khazali, ARISAR carried the Caribbean’s story of craftsmanship, heritage, and innovation into one of the most influential spaces in the fashion industry.

Inspired by the intersection of Caribbean and Indian heritage, ARISAR’s luxury resort wear blends bold femininity with artisanal techniques—all handmade in Barbados. As one of the only Caribbean labels present, the brand stood as a beacon of creative excellence from the region.

While the original goals included meeting specific industry stakeholders and securing wholesale placements with international retailers, the experience proved invaluable in other meaningful ways. ARISAR connected with buyers from Rhode Island and Mexico, exchanged insights with fellow global designers, and gained firsthand knowledge on the scaling of production, branding, and international wholesale operations.

“Being in a room with brands like Alemais, FARM Rio, and Miss June was both inspiring and affirming,” said Nikita Weir. “It was a reminder that Caribbean design belongs in these spaces.”

Beyond the business, the participation of ARISAR at Coterie signaled a larger narrative: Caribbean fashion is ready for global expansion, and with the support of programs like UNESCO’s Creative Caribbean, designers from the region are positioned to grow, connect, and compete on an international scale.

The experience has laid the foundation for deeper exploration into production and wholesale opportunities, and it marks a significant milestone in ARISAR’s journey toward global luxury recognition.