A humble celebration of the sacred pigments of Mexico and Colombia.

After attending 10 shows at London Fashion Week SS24, I’m exhausted but happy to see that more and more designers are embracing sustainable practices. Some of you were asking me which one was my favourite show and I can’t mention just one but what I can say that I feel emotionally and deeply connected with Anciela and her ‘Latin Notes’ show.

Maybe is because Jennifer, the designer is also a Latina based in London and I know the hard work that involves trying to grow in the fashion industry but we Latinas are resilient, and we keep using our voices and create awareness of our cultural heritage and value of artisan craftspeople and indigenous communities across Latin America.

Anciela’s show was an immersive experience bringing Latin flair to London Fashion Week. Held in an atmospheric crypt, a diverse range of models from all ages, genders, body sizes and ethnicities took to the catwalk, many dancing to the rhythm of Latin notes while sashaying down the catwalk. The show definitely brought the audience into the story and the fact that there is diversity in the style of clothes and models gave everyone a sense of belonging. I love that!

In this collection Anciela collaborated with Studio Kuhu (Mariana Leyvato) to create three new colours for this collection using Mexican dyes from Oaxaca - which in our culture are traditionally used to convey stories and speak to the land - and English Madder.

Photography by Kiera Chevell

"Latin Notes" is a humble celebration of the sacred pigments of Mexico and Colombia. Anciela showcases how these pigments come to life and react to the elements, as seen in the floral motifs achieved by altering the pH of these dyes.

Deadstock poplins, Irish hemp-linen jacquards have been carefully dyed and treated with these captivating colours in collaboration with BFTT Textile Designer Alice Timmis. Some of the pieces features lustrous splatter jacquard, woven with raffia and recycled British yarns from Iinouiio as well as Natural Tencel jerseys and waxed fabrics from Esce-tex and natural wooden beads and corozo buttons which made the collection look eclectic.

For the show I wore the Valentina hand bleached denim jacket and trousers from Anciela’s archives, finished with a Miu Miu bag, a pair of navy blue velvet boots and my favourite Burberry sunglasses.  Both pieces featured a custom leaf print hand bleached in London made with dead stock indigo heavy raw denim, the easy fit with a draped front hem and a classic revere collar allowed for a playful silhouette while keeping the classic indigo denim feel. Guys! I was catching eyes on the street with this outfit :)

If it caught your eyes too you can buy the set here: Valentina Jacket and Valentina Trousers.

Photography by Poli Alexeeva.

For more beautiful pieces from the brand please visit https://www.anciela.com  and don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any question or comment!

With Love,

Eri x