The Dominican Republic is reeling after a horrifying nightclub collapse at Jet Set in Santo Domingo claimed at least 113 lives and injured over 150 people. Among those who tragically didn't make it was fashion designer Martín Polanco, a trailblazer best known for his elevated take on the classic guayabera shirt.
What was supposed to be a lively performance by merengue legend Rubby Pérez turned into an unimaginable disaster when the roof of the iconic Jet Set nightclub came crashing down mid-show. Chaos. Screams. Darkness. In the hours that followed, many were reported missing, including Polanco.
Sadly, his family has since confirmed the heartbreaking news: Martín Polanco is among the victims.
Authorities are investigating what led to the collapse, and President Luis Abinader has declared three days of national mourning. Rescue teams are still combing through debris as the country mourns one of the darkest moments in its entertainment history.
Who Was Martín Polanco?
Martín Polanco wasn't just any designer. Known for turning the traditional guayabera into a global fashion statement, he brought Caribbean flair to red carpets and presidential wardrobes. He dressed big names like Daddy Yankee, Raphy Pina, and President Abinader.
But his journey wasn't easy. Polanco lost his father at just 12 years old. From then on, he and his brother hustled on the streets, selling clothes and slowly building the family's brand: Los Hermanos Polanco. When the Dominican Republic cracked down on the import of used clothing, Polanco pivoted. That's when his passion for fashion truly ignited.
From Streetwear to the Spotlight
Determined to go from self-taught to top-tier, Polanco enrolled at UNPHU to study tailoring, continued his training at the Mercy Jáquez Institute, and finished strong with design and art courses at Altos de Chavón, one of the most respected creative schools in the region.
A Fashion Icon Gone Too Soon
Polanco's impact extended way beyond the Caribbean. His fresh twist on guayaberas reached the runways of Europe, Miami's boutiques, and countless celebrities' wardrobes.
Many of his fans and friends remember seeing his designs on stage for the first time. In fact, Polanco once shared to Listin Diario that designing for Sergio Vargas' performance at Altos de Chavón made him realize his talent could actually change lives. From that point on, there was no turning back.
He built his lane in the fashion world, and along the way, schools were named after him, and he inspired protégés.
The Legacy Lives On
While the Dominican Republic continues to mourn, Polanco's legacy lives on through every stitch, every design, and every dreamer following in his footsteps. He proved that style can come from struggle and that the boldest fashion statements are sometimes born in the most unexpected places.
Rest in power, Martín Polanco. Your light won't dim.