Johanna Ortiz Pre-Fall 22 Collection INDIRA

As complex as she is graceful, our muse is drawn by the immense potential of a draped form. To layer and gather, to fold and knot is an expression of NATURAL ELEGANCE. She is innately sensitive yet passionately attentive to the cultural heritage carried in the manner with which a dress falls on the body. She is a tourist in her own land who is haunted by the rich smell of coffee.

The art of draping offers our most ancient sartorial tradition, one that conflates past and present across a multitude of cultures to a singular purpose - to celebrate the natural curves of the human form. Our silhouettes look to the symmetry of antiquity, the technical prowess of Madame Vionnet, and the sensual arrangement of the Indian saree with its varying translucence, unexpected cutouts, and loose ends gracefully swathed back to front. The result is satisfyingly versatile; sleeves are removable, straps are adjustable and a maxi dress instantly transforms into a refreshing mini.

“I was thinking of the gypsy sexiness of the 70s, with a touch of folclor from the tropics.”

On our road to sustainability, we worked with conscious cotton poplins, linens, viscose jacquards, and pima knitted fabrics. There are also classic textured silks beaded with shimmering gold and silver pailletes that give the clothes a sensual touch with subtle handmade spark.

Honoring our rich Latin American cultural heritage, we collaborated with the Argentinean brand Rocio G, known for their beautiful, artisanal leather work. The collaboration includes leather ornamented vests that are described by the designer as a “jewel top.” ARMOURS OF SHELLS mingle around the collection enhancing the ethnic touch of the Argentinian SOUTH AMERICAN FLAIR.

There are also hand embroidered shell necklaces that reflect the designers’ love for sea shells featuring around 160 hand stiched puka shells. Finally, there are handcrafted leather tote bags with the iconic JO handles in braided design cords, paired with emblematic fabrics woven by the Wichi indigenous community in Argentina, and Iraca pieces woven by “Las Juanas”, an artisan community in Colombia.

To create an eclectic imprint, we are experimenting with contrasting scale. Eastern ikat with solid dip ends, western stamped motifs and japanese floating floral are magnified and dilated, while tie-inspired palm print and tropical plant miniatures are delicately rendered in the style of a tropical chinoiserie.

Our palette this season is grounded in the vibrant solidity of the spice trade - carmine red, marigold, and juniper green. The unexpected colorways, a signature of our offering, are pleasing - pungent earth tones next to ecru and lilac; punchy fuschia and jade beside royal blue and the deepest black. A subtle and elegant nude, with the faintest hint of blush, balances the richness of the opening shades.

Handcrafted in Colombia, accessories include western belts with raffia finishes, Iraca palm shoulder bags, a bangle set made from Bejuco by artisans from Quindío. There are unique handmade LUXURY CRAFTS, always made from natural fibers such as the oversized beaded Iraca necklaces adorned with gold plated precious stones and the earrings which are woven in bejuco and natural stones. Gladiators sandals are back in nudes and metallic colors while goddess-like heels that wrap around the ankle are the perfect pair for a summer night out.