We talk about the origins of the black and white suit in ska fashion, tracing it back to the early 1960s in Jamaica where ska music was born. The sharp, tailored look of the Jamaican dance scene reflected the 'rude boy' style, with suits, thin ties, and polished shoes being a way to demand respect and show pride. When ska was revived in the UK in the late 1970s, the black and white checkerboard pattern became a symbol of racial unity. Bands like The Specials, The Selecter, and Madness made this