The Dominican fashion world is in mourning after the confirmation of the death of designer Martín Polanco, victim of the collapse of the ceiling at the Jet Set nightclub.
The tragedy occurred in the early hours of April 8 during a concert by merenguero Rubby Pérez and left at least 79 dead and more than 160 injured, according to local authorities.
Martín Polanco was missing
Martín Polanco’s family initially shared a statement requesting information on his whereabouts following the collapse.
Sadly, hours later his death was confirmed.
His friend Raphy Pina expressed in social networks:
We are deeply saddened by what happened and we stand in solidarity with the families who have lost loved ones
Raphy Piña
Univision anchor Jomari Goyso also shared the news of the designer’s death on his social networks.
“How sad!!! I can’t believe it… I saw you a couple of weeks ago full of dreams!!!,” Goyso wrote.
“Because you were a great dreamer! Rest in peace Martín Polanco, what an honor it was to have crossed your path,” added Jomari.
“All your designs I keep them as a great jewel!!!!! Rest in peace maestro!!!”, concluded the presenter’s message.
An icon of Dominican fashion
Martin Polanco, a native of Villa Juana, Santo Domingo, was a key figure in Dominican Republic fashion for more than three decades, according to People en Español.
He began his career as a self-taught designer at the age of 17, revolutionizing men’s design with the use of non-traditional colors and cuts.
His innovative style has led him to dress celebrities such as Daddy Yankee, Raphy Pina and President Luis Abinader.
His work not only shone on local runways, but also on international stages such as the Mercedes Benz Fashion Show in Miami, Caribbean Fashion Week in New York, and the Spring Colors Fashion Show in Boston.
These events positioned her vision as a major force in Caribbean and Latin fashion globally.
Commitment to training and social impact
Buzzy
In addition to his creative achievements, Martín Polanco was a passionate mentor.
In 2021, in alliance with the Municipality of Santo Domingo East and the National Foundation of Caribbean Art and Design, she founded the first municipal school of design and sewing in the country.
The institution offers training in haute couture, tailoring and costume jewelry, and has been a breeding ground for young talents from vulnerable sectors.
In 2022, the Dominican Senate recognized him for his contributions to the development of fashion and for his social work. On that occasion, Polanco emotionally declared, “We have designed a dream, overcoming every obstacle. When you want to, you can.”
Ongoing research
President Luis Abinader declared three days of national mourning and guaranteed that the causes of the collapse at Jet Set, an iconic Dominican nightlife establishment, will be investigated.
Emergency teams such as 911, Civil Defense and firefighters continue to work in rescue and assistance to those affected.
Martin Polanco’s departure leaves a deep void, not only in fashion, but in the heart of a community that saw him as a mentor, innovator and defender of Creole talent.
His name and his work will live on in every design he inspired, in every student he trained and in the pride of bringing Dominican fashion to the world.
