"Fashion meets nature" is the mantra behind Colombian label Arteli's handbags, and sustainability lies at its heart. Handmade by female artisans in South America, these bags are handwoven from natural materials and marry craftsmanship with nature. We chatted with Arteli's founder, Juan Camilo Meisel, about his eye-catching designs and the philosophy they represent. Q: Where did the idea for Arteli come from? A: When I was very young, I always saw my mom making...
Read MoreHandmade, artisanal, local, modern: these are just some of the words that describe the brand philosophy of Nomah Project. Founded by Linda Cassio, the Los Angeles-based brand takes its inspiration from her native country of Mexico, and produces an eclectic mix of accessories, from pom-pom beach bags to straw hats to tassel earrings. Shop Latitude chatted with Cassio to learn more about her quirky label and its origins. Where did the...
Read MoreJacqueline Lopez’s breezy beachwear label Jaline is everything you want for a fuss-free vacation—relaxed silhouettes, playful details like fringe and tassels, and lightweight fabrics. No wonder her label is a favorite with A-listers like Priyanka Chopra. Her tunics, caftans and separates range from solid neutrals to bright prints, and the best part is they’re all handcrafted by women artisans in Oaxaca, Mexico. Shop Latitude chats with the founder about the line,...
Read MoreOversized straw baskets, monochrome striped cushions, textured throws and rugs—what do all these products from Colombian home décor label Azulina Home have in common? They’re all 100% handmade. Launched by Melissa Moriarty in 2013, the label is a celebration of artisanal craftsmanship and age-old traditions. The Cuatros Tetas baskets, for example, can take up to three weeks to make and are handwoven by indigenous Canaan women in the Pacific rainforests...
Read MoreDesigner Daniela Bustos Maya may be from Argentina but it’s her connection with Mexico that fuels her eponymous label. What started out as a jewelry line using antique Mexican coins and an ancient Yucatan technique of thread-weaving has evolved into a label spanning clothing, home décor and accessories. Pleasing neutrals—think creams, beiges and greys—dominate her collections of bed linens, dresses, hats and more, while her jewelry line tends to experiment...
Read MoreIn just a few short years, Bar Palladio in Jaipur has achieved the kind of status that makes it one of those iconic spots you’re told you can’t leave the Pink City without seeing for yourself. Conceived by Italian Barbara Miolini, the bar/restaurant is a world unto itself, full of charming block prints, tented canopies and expert lighting. Her latest project, Caffe Palladio, is just a five-minute walk away. Restful,...
Read MoreThe Eco Gypsy is a label that spans genres—fashion, travel and living. What started out as a magazine dedicated to eco-travel has expanded into a sustainable fashion label specializing in handmade dresses, beachwear, jewelry and handbags, and its latest adventure involves eco-friendly rental properties. The mastermind behind the Bali-based company, Electra Gillies, describes her aesthetic as “barefoot, but not basic” and the brand reflects her personal taste for luxury and...
Read MoreNever again reach for an oversized boyfriend shirt as a beach cover-up when you’ve got a Denizina piece in your wardrobe. These handmade and hand-embroidered kimonos feature vibrant batik prints in colors ranging from pastel blue to ruby red. Made in Thailand, the boho-chic label’s designs work just as well over a bikini on the beach as with ripped jeans in the city. Shop Latitude speaks with Deniz Alkan, founder...
Read MoreCarmen Myers gives traditional Kenyan craftsmanship a contemporary spin with her accessories label Meyelo. Handmade by Maasai artisans in Kenya, the brand’s brass rings and cuffs, pendant necklaces, tote bags and carryalls are sleek and elegant, perfect for everyday. Bonus: they support a worthy cause! 10% of the proceeds from each purchase of a Meyelo product are donated to Myer’s philanthropic organization, A Voice Is Heard, which provides community development and...
Read MoreWith a passion for discovering beautifully unique and carefully made things, Far & Wide offers creations one can only stumble upon in the tucked-away workshops and rural village markets on exotic travels. By solely working with fair trade artisans they are also helping to build a more sustainable infrastructure for the artisanal communities they work with. The remarkable woman behind the brand, Hedvig Alexander, has so much insight and dedication when it comes to the industry, brand and the social...
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