Tales and Textiles from Oaxaca

As a fashion designer, one of the first things I look at when planning a vacation in a new country are the local artisan traditions. When looking at the handmade crafts, jewelry and textiles available in Oaxaca, Mexico, I was beyond blown away. The indigenous groups take pride in their unique creations and are rightfully famous for their crafts.

Since I'm currently preparing for my Fall/Winter '18 collection for Paris Fashion Week on March 3rd 2018, Oaxaca was a natural destination for me to travel when I was in Central America this December. Beyond the beautiful architecture and unique landscapes, there is a plethora of art of culture, both old and new. The second I arrived (despite an unfortunate case of food poisoning for a papaya shake) I was at the markets, checking out what local vendors had to offer.

As I began collecting different pieces of cloth and embroidery, I started to think about how I was going to incorporate all of these colours and textures into a cohesive collection. Looking around me, at the colourful adobo buildings and and lively local people I was suddenly struck with inspiration. I love the way nature meets human in these Central American cities. There is a beautiful harmony that is created by the contrast of desert landscape and unique architecture that I want to capture in my clothing designs.