Traditional Techniques & Modern Fashion - Carla Fernández

Carla Fernandez's Pom Pom dress from her Spring-Summer 2017 collection. (Photo Credit: Hermosa Journal)

   It’s no secret that we are big fans of Carla Fernández’s creations.  The designer makes beautiful avant-garde clothing deeply intertwined with Mexico’s vast indigenous artistic legacy.  Fernández helps preserve this rich creative history by incorporating the craft of talented artisans (like foot wool felting or mud dyeing) into her designs.  The collaboration between ancient indigenous techniques and Fernández’s modern designs result in stunning, wearable pieces of art.

A classic Fernández bracelet inspired by a traditional Mexican molinillo. (Hermosa Journal)

The bracelets come in various sizes and there is a new color per season. (Hermosa Journal)

Photo credit: Hermosa Journal

  This fusion between old and new helps modernize the artistry while bringing awareness to the craftsmanship to ensure it will be enjoyed for years to come.  We love Fernández’s work because it is rooted in a cause we deeply care about: the celebration of culture (and we also think the finished results are beautiful).  With several stores in Mexico (from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende) and designs available via her website, you can now buy Fernández’s work regardless of where you are located.  Her newest collection will be available late August 2017.  So, next time you are looking for clothes that are unique and rooted in tradition, start with Carla Fernández.

Squares are a common pattern in Fernandez's designs. (Hermosa Journal)

Fusing Heritage & Fashion - B. Yellowtail

Photo credit: B.Yellowtail

   Bethany Yellowtail, a Native American designer based in Los Angeles, is making waves in the fashion world.  Her creations incorporate native elements (think ancestral motifs and patterns) and contemporary designs.  A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Design and Management, Yellowtail started her eponymous brand in 2014.  Since then, the designer has developed a loyal following who crave her fresh take on native inspired products.  

B.Yellowtail summer 2017 designs.  (Cameron Mackey)

   While it is still rare to find clothing designed by Native Americans in the mainstream fashion world, Yellowtail is working hard to shift this reality.  The designer is achieving this goal by creating sought after clothing rooted in her heritage.  Yellowtail takes another step toward changing the fashion landscape by giving back to her community.  In an effort to support other native artists, she started the B.Yellowtail Collective which features heirloom quality work by Native American artisans.  Changing an industry isn’t easy, but Yellowtail certainly seems up to the challenge.

The Indigenous Women Rise scarf by B.Yellowtail. (Hermosa Journal) 

   The purchase of a B.Yellowtail product is deeper than just consumption, it is a way to change the status quo and to celebrate a community.  A designer with a mission to empower her community and killer designs?  No wonder her recent Hollywood fashion show and pop-up were a total success.  Interested in sporting her creations?  Yellowtail releases a new design monthly and her 2017 summer collection is now available through her website.

Shoulders, Shoulders, Shoulders - Johanna Ortiz

A classic off-the-shoulder Ortiz top worn by Nausheen Shah.

   Colombian designer Johanna Ortiz, largely credited for igniting the off-the shoulder craze, is adding wedding dresses to her design portfolio.  Ortiz has recently teamed up with Moda Operandi to launch her debut bridal collection.  Brides-to-be can choose from 12 looks in off-white colors and natural fabrics - all of which ooze femininity.  Ruffles, plunging necklines and a lot of shoulder (of course) is what a bride can expect from Ortiz’s newest designs.

Photo Credit: Moda Operandi

Photo Credit: Moda Operandi

Photo Credit: Moda Operandi

The Zendaya Show - Met Gala 2017

Credit: Pop Sugar

   We are crazy about Zandaya’s look for the 2017 Met Gala.  From the print on her Dolce & Gabbana gown, to her makeup, to her gorgeous hair - simply epic.  On our next night out we’ll be channeling Zendaya’s go big or go home moment.

Makers Galore - Echo Park Craft Fair

Credit: Nancy Neil 

   Mark your calendars!  The spring installation of the famous Echo Park Craft Fair will be taking place May 13-14th at the Mack Sennett Studios in Silverlake, California.  Started by the talented Rachel Craven and Beatrice Valenzuela, the two day fair showcases expertly curated makers.  With creations from ceramics to food (and, almost everything else in between), you'll definitely want to attend this exciting event.