The city of Buenos Aires has one of the most innovative, inspiring, and eclectic fashion industries in the world, and an important new element to the BA design scene is the movement in sustainable and socially conscious clothing and accessories. Some of the most original work in the city lies hidden in showrooms and petite boutiques where independent designers are utilizing ethical work processes and natural materials to craft products we can all feel good about buying.
The delightful ambiance at Alejandra Gottelli’s Cubreme (Godoy Cruz 1720) is warm and inviting, and her dedication to investing in local fabrics and labor shows in her comfortable, classic line of cozy coats and luxurious homewear. Every piece in her collection is created using natural fabrics and handmade by local craftsmen and cooperatives. As a thoroughly socially conscious designer, she values fair trade and the investment in growing South American economies. Soft fabrics such as llama, linen, and bamboo abound in her homewear line filled with shorts, nightgowns, and wide leg pants. Her winter coats are simply exquisite, featuring delicate details such as antique buttons made of onyx and marble. Furthermore, she lets no material go to waste. Any leftover fabric is used to create anything from a scarf to a cloth clutch. Above all, she states, the raw materials inspire her. For Alejandra, her line is all about working from the inside out to craft a garment that will last for years to come.
The designers behind Riaga, (Av. Santa Fe 1714, 8th floor, suite 805 in Galeria Francia) an artistic line of accessories and casual garments, have always believed in the power of utilizing art to create change and expand social consciousness. In their growing collection, they feature loose pants and wraps made of ecological and organic cotton, as well as natural felt and merino wool. However, their standout pieces are what they consider “textile art you can use.” This line of accessories is made using organic cotton, and each one is hand painted with all natural dyes. As creators of this unique and innovative line, Juan and Valeria seek to generate social consciousness by showing buyers that there is a way to produce beautiful accessories with a low environmental impact. In fact, through their effort at Nuevos Aires, they have already joined forces with 10 other companies to foment more awareness in the art and fashion worlds about the value of sustainable materials and ethical work environments. Their devotion to this philosophy shows in every aspect of their imaginative designs. Picture a necklace that dangles perfectly and hugs your neck to appear as if it is floating and you’ll have a pretty good idea about Riaga. However, nothing beats seeing these striking designs in person at their Barrio Norte showroom.
Speaking of stunning accessories, when I want to add a distinctive bracelet or necklace to my jewelry collection, I look to the creators of CruzdellaCasa (Bonpland 1481 apartment 1) and their recycled materials to add a dash of elegance and character. Small details such as antique buttons, beads and even ties, harken back to a different era, and considering their new collection is inspired by Amelia Earhart, Lucila and Rita have hit their target. CruzdellaCasa features a variety of pieces, from bracelets to earrings to brooches, all supremely classy and with that touch of history to make them some of the most distinctive accessories in town.
The Get One Give One policy at Recoleta’s La Remera (Arenales 1239, 1-N) is not only enticing, but utterly inspiring. If you buy one of their silky soft cotton tees, they promise to give one to a child in need through their alliance with the charity APAER. Although a more basic tee is available, the beauty of La Remera is the variety of styles from asymmetrical dresses to curve hugging skirts. Among their T-shirt selection you can find everything from long sleeves to cap sleeves, and you get to feel good about your purchase at the same time. If that’s not a great shopping deal, I don’t know what is.
The sustainable and socially conscious design movement in BA is slowly growing, and through the investment of buyers dedicated to the principles of environmental awareness and preservation, we can all participate to create a cleaner world. And we get to look stylish on top of it. Count me in.
Xoxo
Your BAShopGirl
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