Johanna Ortiz Unveils Fall Collection Candelaria: A Fusion of Craftsmanship and Luxury
After more than ten years at the helm of her fashion brand, Johanna Ortiz has expanded her influence beyond women’s apparel. Her label now encompasses a diverse range of products, including home goods and educational initiatives aimed at empowering women through fashion.
Inspiration Behind Candelaria
In her latest fall collection, titled Candelaria, Ortiz draws inspiration from a hypothetical collector immersed in luxurious experiences. The line showcases iconic prints influenced by the intricate beadwork and gold craftsmanship of pre-Columbian cultures, emphasizing their rich symbolism and vibrant aesthetics.
A Celebration of Art Deco and Vibrant Colors
The Candelaria collection harmoniously blends pure luxury with Art Deco aesthetics as it pays homage to this year’s centennial of the movement. It features a rich color palette comprising shades of chocolate, emerald, burgundy, and black, which serve as backdrops for intricate designs and dynamic contrasts. Key highlights include:
- Luxurious fabrics such as velvet and brocade, along with flowing liquid silk.
- Elegant evening wear like long dresses and airy capes crafted from rosy beige chiffon.
- Floral motifs that reflect Ortiz’s Californian roots, featuring inspiration from palm trees and magnolia blooms.
Day-to-Night Versatility
The collection caters to both daytime and evening looks. For daytime, offerings include tailored black pants accentuated with unique knotted waist details, a black car coat adorned with Lanchero motifs, and a denim pencil skirt paired with a cropped suede jacket and Ortiz’s signature cowboy boots. The accessories, encompassing a growing selection of bags and belts, are designed to complement this daywear theme.
As night falls, the collection shifts to more glamorous attire featuring:
- Minimalist dresses and blouses in deep espresso and black.
- Elegant draping, plunging necklines, and feather-embellished cuffs.
- A stunning all-gold ensemble inspired by the designer’s collaboration with Colombian jeweler Omar Haltado, showcasing gold-plated silver and semi-precious stones with cultural significance.
Community and Craftsmanship
Despite the growth of her enterprise, which now includes a dedicated team of 460 employees and a newly opened boutique on Madison Avenue, Ortiz emphasizes a familial approach to her business. In April, she plans to launch a temporary pop-up shop at Le Bon Marché that will showcase not just clothing but also highlight Colombian craftsmanship, merging magical realism with her designs.
“I’m honored to work with them,” Ortiz states. “It was all very organic, but when you have a clear vision and purpose, I think you can translate it into the world.”
Conclusion
Johanna Ortiz’s fall collection, Candelaria, stands as a testament to the intersection of traditional craftsmanship and modern fashion. With a focus on empowerment, artistry, and a deep cultural respect, her work continues to inspire and elevate the narrative of women in the fashion industry.
