In this month’s Emerging Latin Designers I Love series, I’m excited to feature a handful I’ve recently been wearing; embodying the spirit of adventure, sophisticated design and Latin heritage. Some create swimwear, others make sustainable handbags…all of which I love and am happy to share with you.

Blazer: MM6 Maison Margiela Pants: MM6 Maison Margiela Blouse: Equipment 

Earrings: Oscar de la Renta Sandals: Schutz Clutch: Vintage

Bahia Maria Swimwear

A luxury swimwear brand, made in Colombia, takes beach chic to a new level. Having worn this brand for 3+ years, I am constantly blown away by their line as seen on my recent trip here. Their swimwear is sophisticated and elegant with the right amount of Latina ruffle that makes this brand beautifully striking. (So beautiful, you can wear their swimsuits with jeans and skirts!)

Valena Handbags

Established in El Salvador in 2016 by mother-daughter duo, Valeria Silva de Nieto and Carmen Elena Esteves de Silva, Valena remains a conscious, ethical handbag brand. I love that their collection consists purely of timeless pieces with the purpose of transcending seasons (big fan of this!). Not only are the bags handcrafted using high quality materials, but the making of it has little to no impact on our environment. I’ve been wearing  this Eva Basket Bag quite a bit!

Waimari

It’s the perfect wardrobe to vacation in…and one of my top choices this summer.

I loved strolling around the pastel town of Bermuda in this dress. 

Waimari emerged from Colombia’s Caribbean coast in 2015 by sisters, Stephanie and Catalina, and has redefined the idea of resort  chic (think: from beach to dinner with ease). Because one of their main values is to empower women through their clothing (not only those wearing them, but the ones behind the scenes too) they choose to employ mostly single mothers or sole providers for their family. Even the seamstresses at Waimari train women from their neighborhoods/communities to activate change and help give more women greater opportunities (this is amazing!). 

Moda Zeta

It all began when Claritt Zighelboim Mishaan, graduated from Miami International University of Art & Design, moved to Colombia with her husband…and created Moda Zeta in 2012. Her designs are proudly based out-of and made in Bogota, Colombia with an emphasis on event/party attire. However, each collection still offers many chic, versatile pieces with a full range of functionality. I especially adore the structured twists and finishes of her design as seen in some of my latest #ootds here and here. I’ve been wearing Moda Zeta for years…

Mi Golondrina

One of my most recent discoveries is Mi Golondrina founded by Cristina Lynch. 

Her inspiration is deeply rooted in her culture, childhood memories with her family while listening to Mariachi. Each piece represents the beauty and traditions of Mexico that she knows, loves and shares; I fell in love with the vibrant colors, soft fabric and the art of embroidery within her designs. These handmade pieces have really touched me and I, of course, had to wear it on my recent trip back to Mexico here! 

Xo, Stephanie