She says the CPMC will not dictate which costumes should be designed and how revellers should dress.

This clarification follows yearly calls by certain members of the public demanding that carnival costumes cover more skin.

Gibson says such a mandate is not on the agenda of Carnival organisers.

“There’s never been a discussion on that because we think that is stifling creativity. The designers and creatives have the liberty to design costumes for everybody on-island. That is why one of our key pillars this year is inclusivity.”

However, she notes, the Committee will exercise its discretion in dress codes for the Junior Carnival activities. 

“So there are costumes for those who want to wear skimpy and there are costumes for those who want to wear more clothed and covered costumes; there are costumes for the kids and there are costumes for the more mature. It’s stifling people’s creativity - carnival is about being for all,” she said.

Gibson adds that registrants have the option of buying costumes they feel comfortable wearing.

“Each band has its target market and every band has options. Some bands have costumes that come in many variations. It depends on the individual who purchases the costume and is investing in the band to buy what they would like to wear.”