Eco Fashion World

As the holidays approach, buying handmade is still more than ever on our mind. In the last issue we focused on the DIY aspect of handmade goods, this time, we explore how craftsmanship, valuing and preserving traditional skills, has the power to lift some of the world's most impoverished communities up the first steps of the development ladder or give a new boost to a country's artisans after a particularly trying time. Time honored traditions mix with modern design for the most stunning results, creating unique items that make amazing gifts for others or yourself at every price!

One of the best examples of traditional and modern fusion we've encountered is Taller Flora. Designer Carla Fernandez is as passionate about embroidery in rural Mexico and teaching street children basic skills as she is about creating edgy design that will change our perspective of what craftsmanship can produce, her words of advice to eco-fashionistas and designers to do us all a favor: “don't go hippie”.

Our store of the month also focuses on the artisans of a particular country, in this case Argentina. In the aftermath of the country's economic crisis, resourcefulness became the design community's motto, and the amazing recycled goods that have come out of their ateliers have since seduced the world.

To understand how powerful the trash to treasure process can be, don't miss our Fashion for Development story, an inspiring world tour of some of the best initiatives out there.

And to illustrate the two main advantages that finely crafted accessories and garments can have for the consumer (originality and durability) we've compiled some of our favorite things for women and men, keeping in mind the cozy spirit of the season.

So keep an eye out for the many craft markets to hit your area or take your inspiration from the online stores in our guide and become known as this season's best gift giver. Happy Holidays to all!

Raised by a mother who passed on a habit of clothes shopping involving both new and previously worn clothing and a father who worked as a director of museums at the National Institute of Anthropology and History, Mexican born designer Carla Fernandez, founder of Taller Flora, quite naturally developed a passion for fashion which merges old with new, simple with complex, and tradition with forward-thinking. Her father’s work required travel embarking the family on voyages all over Mexico, exploring different indigenous communities, their traditions, their homes, and most apparent in Carla Fernandez’ work today, their apparel. Her designs are comprised of geometric shapes, bold and beautiful colors, techniques born of heritage and culture, and clothing that truly tells a story with no end because for this designer, time is not a barrier and the sky is the limit.

Ans Designs, an online store which happens to be based in the UK, is the internet equivalent of taking a stroll through Buenos Aires’ trendy Palermo Viejo district. Featuring designs that are organically and authentically Argentine, the accessories shop runs the gamut from quirky and whimsical to modern and iconoclastic. The common thread is a wildly imaginative interpretation of design, a sense of experimentation and ingenuity, and economical craftsmanship in the use of materials.

An art-deco ballroom, hundreds of people on red plush chairs, big white balloons hanging from the ceiling like full moons on a dark night, camera people on the stage awaiting the start of the show. And then the music starts. Models in white outfits stride into the room. The light materials of the dresses, shirts and pants seem to flow around their bodies. The woven pleats and contemporary shapes of the garments give the simple organic cotton a transparent and chic appeal.

Simple cuts, luxurious materials and fine craftsmanship are a winning combination for these basics with a twist that should keep you cozy for many winters to come.

Traditional craftsmanship takes on modern shapes and colors for a winter wardrobe with an original twist. Whether it’s the fine artisanship of a pair of moccasins or handmade suede boots from one of the oldest ateliers in France, these items are made to last for many years.