Mercado Global

I’ve always been inspired by traditional methods of artisan craft. For  me, understanding background stories and heritage is as integral to design as the final product. I spent a large part of my childhood poring over my dad’s National Geographic collection in awe of the colors, stories and people, always fascinated by far-flung corners of the globe and the meaning of traditional dress. Since forging a career fashion design, I have sought to merge my passion for heritage with an approach that is relevant to the fashion world today.I’ve come to realize that in today’s world of rapid consumption, slow process and appreciation for fine craftsmanship is of true value.

While a lot of the world is just coming around to realize it, artisan
work is the way of the future and thus possesses a role in the
zeitgeist. Not only is artisan work becoming a valuable tool for
social progress, but also a mode of reclaiming age-old techniques,
paying tribute to identity through time-honored tradition. A
“slow-fashion” movement is on the horizon.

This is what I believe, at least.

My experience working with Mercado Global in the indigenous highlands of Guatemala was the perfect bridge between my prior travel experiences and fashion-designer background.  What struck me most was how enthusiastic everyone from the Mercado Global staff to the artisans were. There was a sense that “something good” was happening and people seemed excited about their role in it. The environment was enlivening in and of itself and I was furthermore inspired by the beautiful Mayan textiles I was surrounded by. Whether it was an antique huipil or a brocade swatch, I immediately saw potential for their uses. I discovered various dye and weaving techniques that I had previously only heard about offhandedly. A new world of color and pattern was constantly unfolding before my eyes. I often simply stood and stared at the textiles, creating mental color stories and concepts before jumping into designing the collections.

Mercado Global has been a new and thought-provoking adventure for me.
Having had the great fortune of extensive travel around the globe
witnessing indigenous populations, it’s been nice to finally put my
experiences to practice in a form that melds with my own identity as a
designer.