**Trailer:**
Step into the world of Johanna Ortiz, where luxury meets tradition, and elegance intertwines with cultural heritage. Over a decade since its inception, Ortiz’s brand has blossomed into a lifestyle empire, encompassing women’s wear, homewares, and a school empowering women through dressmaking and preserving Indigenous craftsmanship. Her latest fall collection, *Candelaria*, draws inspiration from the enigmatic elegance of a collector and the rich symbolism of pre-Columbian artistry. Think opulent Art Deco vibes, intricate gold and beadwork, and a palette of deep chocolate, emerald, and burgundy. From fluid silks to plush velvets, statement feathers to intricate embroideries, Ortiz’s designs are a celebration of strength, grace, and timeless beauty. Whether it’s tailored daywear or show-stopping evening gowns, each piece tells a story—one you’ll want to pass down through generations.
**Paraphrased Digest:**
Johanna Ortiz has transformed her label into a luxury lifestyle brand that spans women’s fashion, home goods, and a school dedicated to teaching dressmaking skills, primarily to women, while supporting traditional crafts from Indigenous communities. Her fall collection, *Candelaria*, was inspired by a mysterious, elegant collector and the intricate craftsmanship of pre-Columbian cultures, particularly their gold and beadwork. The collection, featuring 56 looks, channels the opulence of Art Deco with a rich palette of chocolate, emerald, burgundy, and black. Luxurious fabrics like silk, velvet, and brocade are adorned with feathers, fringe, and embroidery, creating stunning evening wear. Floral motifs, such as magnolias and passion flowers, reflect strength and grace, while Ortiz’s signature palm tree design nods to her life in Cali.
Daywear includes tailored black pants with draped waist details and ranchero-inspired motifs, paired with suede jackets and cowboy boots. For nighttime, Ortiz shines with minimalist dresses and bold ’70s-inspired prints, often grounded with black velvet or gold ensembles that pay homage to her collaboration with Colombian jeweler Omar Hurtado. Their capsule collection features gold-plated silver pieces with symbolic semi-precious stones, celebrating pre-Hispanic cultures.
Despite her brand’s growth, including 460 employees and a new Madison Avenue boutique, Ortiz views her enterprise as a family. She continues to champion Colombian craftsmanship, as seen in her upcoming pop-up at Le Bon Marché, which will showcase her designs alongside the artistry of her homeland. Ortiz’s vision is clear: to create timeless, meaningful pieces that resonate with purpose and beauty.