7 Fashion Designers From Colombia That Should Be on Your Style Radar

Pepa Pombo is a Colombian ready-to-wear knitwear brand, created in 1978 by designer Pepa Pombo. This family run business has been run by Pepa’s daughter Mónica Holguín since 2002, who has continued with the rich traditions and beliefs of the company. Pepa Pombo strives to use intricate unique fabrics, each thread and weave carefully considered to create distinct, multi-functional and versatile products.

Mercedes Salazar is upping Colombia’s accessories game, with her tropical-chic ear rings. Her designs range from star shapes to more recently birds, all handmade using traditional techniques and materials; each piece is detailed and handcrafted. Mercedes believes that all her designs tell stories and that jewellery connects people together, with these beliefs she has created collections with carnival, animal and amethyst themes. Mercedes designs have famously been worn by Sofia Vergara and Katy Perry.

Silvia Tcherassi is one of the most acclaimed figures in Latin American fashion, she was the first Latin American designer to be invited to both the Milan and Paris fashion weeks. She was also awarded the title of ‘Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters’ by the French. Her collections are known for being classic and effortless, made with luxurious fabrics and materials, creating unique looks and styles. Silvia believes “fashion has no age or nationality”, which she shows through all her designs and in her family run company Alameda S.A.S.

Adriana Castro is a Colombian handbag and accessory designer, creating exotic, timeless and discreet pieces. Adriana’s collections are inspired by her personality – fearless, unique, feminist, delicate, refined, regal and independent. Adriana strives to create products which are the “magic wand” of a women’s wardrobe. Her designs have been worn by Jennifer Lopez, Eva Longoria, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Kardashian and Shakira among others.

Lia Samantha is a Colombian designer, who is changing the Afro-Colombian fashion industry for the better. Lia was previously a successful musician, who turned her love for fashion into a career. Her designs stand out from the crowd with a variety of African prints and fabrics. Lia aims to bring cultural awareness, a refreshed and vibrant style to the world, while bringing as African influence to the modern day.

Carlo Carrizosa is changing the way women’s fashion is created, by structuring men’s tailoring while keeping the mainly feminine sensibility. His ready-to-wear women’s brand is created using fabrics handcrafted by artisanal Colombian textile communities.

Johanna Ortiz is not only a high profile fashion designer, she is also an ambassador for Colombia. Cali born Johanna strives to work with and create awareness of indigenous Colombian communities. Her collections are both elegant and enhance femininity, as well as being fun and colourful. Each garment is handcrafted finely with exquisite material. Johanna’s statement pieces include her staple exuberant ruffles, fun colours and unique fabrics.