On April 25, 2026, Portmore, Jamaica played host to a dynamic, sold-out celebration of style, empowerment and community at the 30+ Fashion Show and Expo, held this year at Club ALIV in Naggo Head. The multi-faceted event, which merged runway fashion, industry networking, motivational speaking and live entertainment, drew rave reviews from attendees, designers and participants alike, marking a major milestone for its founder and cementing its place as a signature cultural gathering for the Jamaican municipality.
Stephanie Elliott-Gunning, the creative mind and promoter behind the 30+ concept, opened up about her excitement surrounding the 2026 staging, which marked the third iteration of her event. After hosting the first two editions in other Portmore venues, she said the team has finally found their permanent home at Club ALIV, pointing to the space’s energy and accessibility as a perfect fit for the event’s growing audience.
A core mission of the 30+ Fashion Show and Expo has always been centred on celebrating body diversity, a value that shaped every element of the 2026 programming. Elliott-Gunning explained that Portmore was selected as the long-term base for the event as part of a larger vision to support the municipality’s goal of becoming the “Miami of the Caribbean” — a vibrant regional hub for tourism, culture and commerce. “You cannot build a world-class city without a thriving fashion scene,” she noted, hinting at the organizers’ next ambitious step: launching the first-ever Portmore Fashion Week, a regional gathering that will bring together designers from across the Caribbean. Early planning and discussions with regional design talent are already underway, she confirmed.
This year’s event raised the bar with a star-studded lineup of emerging and established Caribbean designers, including Bebie Powell Designs, Yanique Designs, Kool Klothes, Vashmar’s, and Tweedle Teews. Attendees got an exclusive first look at Bebie Powell’s upcoming summer bikini collection, while Tweedle Teews’ handcrafted swimwear designs stole the show, earning enthusiastic applause from the crowd for their unique craftsmanship and bold aesthetic. The runway also featured a roster of experienced, high-profile models, including current and former titleholders and contestants from major pageantry circuits such as Mrs Universe, Miss Universe and Miss Cosmos, bringing professional polish and diverse representation to the event.
Beyond the runway, the expo offered attendees meaningful programming that blended inspiration and entertainment. Renowned motivational speaker Patrice “Big and Boasty” Pinkney took the stage to deliver an empowering talk centered on “Becoming the Modern, Mature Woman”, resonating with the event’s focus on uplifting women over 30. Guests were also treated to show-stopping live performances from recording artist Delano McFarlane and beloved Jamaican reggae artist Lady Jo, keeping the energy high throughout the evening.
Participant feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with both first-time and returning designers highlighting the event’s supportive community and unmatched exposure opportunities. Nadine Pennicooke, founder of Montego Bay-based Rocking Kool Klothes, described her first experience at the 30+ show as transformative: “I was nervous at first, as this was my first fashion show, but I’m good now. 30+ was a hit. The exposure has been tremendous. I’ll be back and look forward to working again with these amazing designers and models.” Tashalee Richards Cooper, of Old Harbour-based Vashmar’s Designs, echoed that praise, noting that the event’s organized structure and professional, friendly models made for a seamless, rewarding experience. “I thank Mrs Elliott-Gunning for the opportunity and will definitely return,” she said. One attendee, Jody, summed up the guest experience, saying she left the event with a new perspective on maturity, a deeper appreciation for Caribbean fashion, and was already planning to share the word about the show with friends and colleagues.
As the 30+ Fashion Show and Expo continues to grow in profile and influence, it has secured key corporate backing to support its expansion plans. Elliott-Gunning announced that JN Small Business, Compass Communication, and FESCO have already committed to partnering with the event moving forward, with all three organizations prioritizing support for local and regional female entrepreneurs. With solid community support and growing industry backing, organizers are optimistic about the event’s future as a cornerstone of Portmore’s cultural calendar and a launchpad for Caribbean fashion talent.