What is a Jamaican mayor's professional attire?

by Yadiza
(Manchester, Jamaica)

ANSWER: by Wellesley Gayle
Hey Yadiza, big thanks for reaching out with this wonderful question! 🇯🇲
It’s not every day that someone asks about the official look of our mayors here in Jamaica, so I really appreciate you bringing it up.

What Does a Jamaican Mayor Wear?
In Jamaica, mayors typically have two main types of attire depending on the event:
Regular Civic Attire and Ceremonial Attire.

On regular working days — like council meetings or community visits — a mayor will dress just like any professional. That usually means a formal business suit for the men, and a tailored suit or professional dress for the women. It’s clean, polished, and sharp — but still fairly regular.

But when it comes to official ceremonies — trust me — that’s when they really step out in style!

What Is the Ceremonial Attire Called?
The formal outfit is referred to as the Civic Robe or Mayoral Robe.

This is a beautiful, flowing robe, traditionally in red, burgundy, or black, often trimmed with white fur or fancy embroidery around the edges.
And to complete the look, the mayor wears a heavy Chain of Office — a big, bold gold or silver chain symbolizing their authority and position.

It’s a very regal and eye-catching outfit that shows respect for the occasion and the office they hold.

Different Types of Mayor’s Attire in Jamaica
I would categorize them in basically three types...

• Business/Professional Attire:
  This is the everyday suit and tie, or a smart business dress, worn for regular duties and meetings.
  
• Ceremonial/Civic Robe:
  The traditional flowing robe worn at special events like inaugurations, parades, award ceremonies, and national holidays.
  
• Special/National Dress:
  Sometimes, for things like Independence Day celebrations, you might see the mayor blending in some Jamaican flair — maybe wearing a suit with the national colors or a more relaxed tropical formal look.
  

So, for example, when the Mayor of Montego Bay (or Mandeville - since that's closer to you) is attending an official ceremony like a city awards event, you’ll usually spot him in the bright red robe and gold chain, standing tall and proud - see pic above. But if they’re hosting a back-to-school drive or visiting a hospital, you’ll see them in a regular but very neat business suit.

I hope this helps!

P.S. Do you have a question as well? Submit it to us here! With We've answered well over 2,700 questions answered, so chances are we can help you :-)

Back To The Top Of This Page

New! Get My Latest Book👇🏿

See The Best Of Jamaica - In Videos!

Read More ...

---

---

Back To The Top Of This Page

NEW! JOIN MY PATREON COMMUNITY! Click Here For Details.