Looking back, 2017 was a year of personal and professional changes for me. One of them was that I followed my partner's professional calling, and we relocated all that we had across the ocean to settle in Lima, Peru. While the decision wasn't easy, it didn't feel hard either, even though my Spanish was at the level of being able to say "hola."

The truth is, Lima had a lot less of everything back then, and while some negative aspects might have grown over the years, others have improved. Peru has a rich history and heritage, as does the entire continent of South America, and I believe it is time to shine a spotlight on this aspect, with a particular focus on fashion design. After visiting a few more South American countries this year, I feel I can share a broader story about the brands I want to highlight, based on my own purchases and the stories connected to discovering them.

Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored article.

Back in 2019, we rented a car at Arequipa airport and drove all the way through the Andes to Puno, at Lake Titicaca. Needless to say, the dirt and gravel roads are still there today, and my back remembers them well, but there is almost nothing as beautiful as spending a clear, starry night on an artificial island made by the Uros tribe on the lake that connects Peru with Bolivia. It is unique to say the least, and even on the small islands, artisan craft is in full bloom. I took a beautiful tapestry with me before returning through Kolka Canyon to Arequipa and visiting the leading producer of Alpaca threads.

Only after that journey across the country did my love for alpaca garments and the wider Peruvian fashion scene ignite. Here are my personal favorites:

Kuna was the first brand I got in touch with, even before I moved to Peru. In 2014, my partner went to visit his friends in Peru and surprised me with an extremely elegant poncho made of baby alpaca. I think it was the softest thing I had ever touched, and the elaborate shine of the combed fibers only made it more pleasing. Therefore, it was no surprise to learn that even among South American alpaca brands, Kuna stands out for its luxury textiles, technical innovation, high-quality craftsmanship, and sustainable production. All of Kuna's collections pay homage to ancestral Peruvian textile techniques, blending sleek modernism with sometimes vibrant Andean motifs and natural colors. Each garment, especially their Vicuña series, shines with a sense of exclusivity and authenticity, all while prioritizing fair practices and preserving local traditions.

Website | https://pe.kunastores.com/

Butrich is quite literally a store you can't miss. The whole brand narrative draws heavily on the aesthetics of the Memphis Group, with its pink, geometric interiors and a design language best described as vibrantly colorful and playful. Of course, the first boots I got in the store were pink and featured a bold flower on the pointed toe. Butrich was founded by designer Jessica Butrich in 2004. In the conservative Peruvian fashion landscape, Butrich truly stands out by blending retro influences, playful pop elements, and elegant Latin flair. Each piece is handcrafted in Peru by master shoemakers, celebrating traditional manufacturing techniques while embracing a contemporary sense of fun. Each collection expresses a dynamic, colorful “Butrich universe” designed for confident women who love to experiment with fashion. With flagship boutiques in Lima and an international following, Butrich stands for lasting quality, creativity, and the joyful spirit of modern Peruvian design.

Website | https://butrich.com.pe/

I crossed paths with Gabuteau for the first time when I was still living on the other side of Lima in San Isidro. One day-that's at least how it felt to me- there was this beautiful leather goods flagship store, and I couldn't take my eyes off of it. The brand is celebrated for its timeless approach to design and craftsmanship. Rooted in classic style yet attentive to contemporary trends, Gabuteau produces truly high-quality handmade bags and leather accessories crafted by master artisans. Each piece shares the same minimalist approach while standing out with its individual attention to detail, often expressed in a specific color, unique shape, or modular addons. By now, Gabuteau has several boutiques across Lima and Trujillo, as well as an international presence in Madrid.

Website | https://gabuteau.com/en/

Sofia, the founder of M4T3RI4, and I first met online in the Web3 space. Like me, she is a huge fan of virtual try-ons via virtual reality. Since this is a niche space in Web3, it didn't take us long (still long enough) to realize that both of us live in Lima. I genuinely find her work exceptional, but what fascinates me even more is her approach to design. Sofia brings her designs to life as 3D models first, with all of them designed directly in virtual reality. To me, M4T3RI4 belongs to the realm of cutting-edge Peruvian brands that are pioneering the fusion of digital technology and traditional craftsmanship in contemporary jewelry. M4T3RI4’s innovation has earned recognition—including digital-only NFT earrings featured in Vanity Fair—and support from Startup Perú's “Emprendimientos Innovadores” program.

Website | https://materia.com.pe/

The first time I traveled to Colombia was to Bogotá back in 2019. We explored the city and the Museo del Oro (The Gold Museum) over a short weekend; it was over too soon. The second time I visited Bogotá, I attended Devcon 6, a blockchain developer conference held in April 2022. I barely had time to explore much else, as these conferences tend to be quite exhausting. But on the bright side, my Web3 friend Domingo attended as well and invited me to visit him and his wife in his hometown, Medellin. Soon, I took him up on the offer and got simultaneously introduced to a bunch of cool Colombian brands. Here are my favorite shares so far:

Vélez is a leading Colombian leather brand celebrated for combining artisanal heritage with timeless design and innovation. Founded in Medellín in 1986, Vélez crafts handmade bags, shoes, jackets, and accessories that showcase expert technique, rich storytelling, and a commitment to quality. Each piece reflects sustainable values and a dedication to responsible production, blending the legacy of Colombian leatherwork with contemporary style. The first item I got from the brand was a men's backpack, with a sleek design in refined black leather and neon lemon accents. And apparently, the only backpack in the world that would fit my oversized laptop. It is an exceptional piece of leathercraft and reflects the quality Vélez continues to offer its customers. The clothing line has expanded as well, and makes me wonder what else they have up their sleeves.

Website | https://www.velezartisan.com/

Silvia Tcherassi is a name that rang a strong bell when I passed by her boutique in Bogotá. The colorful and vibrant prints stand tall against the otherwise relatively dry cityscape. I took a look but didn't have the opportunity to explore her designs in person. Hence I did my online research and next time I visit Colombia I will make sure to not miss out again on this trailblazing Colombian designer who effortlessly blends elegance, modern femininity, and Latin flair. She has been known for pioneering “casual luxury,” and to no surprise, her garments have graced the official runways of Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks. She founded the brand in Barranquilla in the late 1980s, which has since grown into over 15 boutique stores worldwide and partnerships with premier luxury retailers. Clearly, Silvia Tcherassi has set a new standard for Latin American fashion, earning some of France’s highest honors and inspiring a new generation of designers with her commitment to artistry, sustainability, and narrative-driven style.

Website | https://silviatcherassi.com/

While not a fashion brand, but a lifestyle and cosmetics brand, Loto del Sur stood out to me right away when I first saw its storefront. The brand is well-known across Colombia for specializing in botanical beauty, fragrance, and home care products inspired by South America's diverse landscapes. With a philosophy rooted in natural wellness and sensory experience, Loto del Sur crafts artisanal formulas using native botanical ingredients and time-honored traditions. The brand offers luxurious body care, perfumes, candles, and skincare essentials—each infused with rich storytelling and a deep respect for the region’s biodiversity. Renowned for its commitment to sustainability, authenticity, and sophisticated design, Loto del Sur has also become a staple in my household, greeting friends and visitors with fragrances inspired by the spirit of the South.

Website | https://www.lotodelsur.com/cl/es/

For all these years in South America, people just assumed I had been to Brazil, when in fact I had never been until this year (2025). We had planned a trip for my birthday in November 2024, but due to a family passing, it never came to be. Instead, we rebooked for April this year and then spontaneously met up with friends for an extended weekend in August again. So what had been neglected for years became a staple in 2025. While walking along the Copacabana, we discovered more than we anticipated. Here are some of my personal favorite discoveries:

HStern is not a brand you want to miss out on when visiting South America. Their jewelry pieces range from haute elegance to contemporary wearable pieces. Headquartered in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, they are globally renowned for their highest level of jewelry craftsmanship. The luxury jewelry brand was founded by German immigrant Hans Stern in 1945. HStern elevated Brazil's native gemstones, such as topaz, amethyst, and tourmaline, to global prestige. Their catalogue is organized into distinct collections, often featuring vibrant colored gemstones, organic shapes in contrast to architectural design, but always with an innovative spirit. Today, the brand continues to set trends with its first island flagship store at Lima Airport. It's beautiful, it's open, and their staff is extremely welcoming, even if you just want to browse.

Website | https://hstern.com/

When strolling in one of Rio's malls on a rainy day I had to look twice discovering Marcela B's store. A minimalist boutique with a native touch is the best way to describe it in a nutshell. The Brazilian fashion footwear brand rooted in Rio is renowned for its striking fusion of local artistry and timeless sophistication. Designer Marcela Basto is the creative force behind the label, bringing an artisanal approach to accessory design that blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. Each collection showcases a dedication to handmade techniques, playful yet refined designs, and materials that reflect the diversity of Brazil's culture. The brand's boutique in Rio is a destination for locals and travelers alike (now including myself), offering an immersive experience into the world of Brazilian craft and innovative shoe design.

Website | https://www.marcelab.com/

Foxton was a spontaneous surprise we came across while walking two parallel streets from Ipanema Beach. Something you don't expect, but when it happens, it turns into a longer and more memorable stay than expected. While their cuts are pretty classic and, at least to me, feel quite unisex, Foxton is, for good reasons, one of Brazil's leading menswear brands. You can feel the commitment to quality, comfort, and timeless design even before you fully enter the store. I was not surprised to learn that some of their staples use "Pima Algodon," the finest cotton fiber available, sourced from Peru. The brand's philosophy emphasizes premium materials, keeping its cuts classic and highlighting uniqueness through smart details. Foxton is an excellent reference in contemporary Brazilian fashion, whether for women or men, because I ended up wearing their pieces as well.

Website | https://www.foxtonbrasil.com.br/

2025 marks the year I visited Bolivia for the first time. While I came close once, being in Puno on Lake Titicaca, I had never crossed the border before. My friend Ceci, who is based in La Paz and a fellow Steward at Unlock, invited me to Ethereum Bolivia, which was held in Santa Cruz. There, we went for a stroll through a nearby shopping mall after lunch, and she introduced me to some of the brands listed here. So most of it, if not all, of the credit for the brand selection goes to her and her elegant fashion taste:

Liliana Castellanos' store was the first we saw when we entered the mall—an elegant, spacious, minimalist boutique with a strong focus on evening and cocktail wear. I instantly fell in love with a black short alpaca cape and couldn't let it go. The Liliana Catellanos brand is named after its founder, renowned for its sophisticated use of alpaca fiber and similarly high-end textiles. Each piece is produced with a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, ensuring minimal environmental impact while supporting skilled artisans across generations. The brand showcases continuously sophisticated collections featuring unique fiber combinations and timeless, elegant tailoring throughout their showrooms.

Website | https://www.instagram.com/lilianacastellanos_oficial

Luis Daniel Ágreda was introduced to me by Ceci upon my return to Peru. While his Instagram account serves as a digital lookbook, his TikTok is a valuable resource in Bolivian fashion education. Ágreda is an acclaimed Bolivian fashion designer with more than a decade of industry experience. Renowned for his vibrant creativity and keen sense of style, Ágreda's work celebrates Bolivian cultural heritage through distinctive, author-driven designs. His eponymous label is dedicated to producing unique pieces that elevate Bolivia's artisan traditions, blending contemporary trends with the rich visual universe of his homeland. Ágreda is recognized for his passion, innovation, and dedication to modernizing Bolivian fashion while staying true to its roots. His Instagram account is more image and fashion-driven, while his TikTok is more focused on the story-driven elements of his design.

Website | https://www.tiktok.com/@luisdaniel.agreda

WEISE Atelier is a Bolivian prêt-à-couture brand founded in 2011 by designer Ericka Suárez Weise in Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Inspired by a three-generation family legacy in haute couture, the label is celebrated for its meticulous handmade craftsmanship and for creating original textiles in its own atelier. WEISE’s collections embody a vision of wearable art—blending tradition, innovative textile techniques, and contemporary elegance. The brand’s signature style features intricate details, structured silhouettes, and a minimalist yet expressive aesthetic. Recently, WEISE Atelier earned international recognition, winning “Ready-to-Wear Latin Designer of the Year” at the 2025 Latin American Fashion Summit in Miami. I wish I had been able to see their sculptural pieces close up, but until my next stay in Bolivia, this will have to wait.

Website | https://weiseatelier.com/

When Europeans think about the fashion scene of emerging countries, many of us (from the conversations I have had) seem to recall scandalous events connected with fast fashion, such as the illegal landfills in Chile's Atacama desert or the unlawful deforestation that is connected to the cotton used by H&M, Zara, and many more.

Seldom have I seen the general media or individual journalists focus on the incredibly vibrant, unique, and often sustainable approaches of South American native brands to fashion design. I hope this article serves as a reminder that non-native brands are the root of these scandals, which can lead to overlooking truly fantastic product and fashion design from here, produced very consciously and often giving back to the environment they take from.

South America is more than an emerging voice; in my humble opinion, it is a wellspring of heritage, craft, and creative vision for the global fashion community. To designers, consumers, and brands worldwide: look to these lands not only as equals, but as an example of well-rooted inspiration and master artistry.

The future of design, among other elements, is richer when we step beyond borders and welcome new perspectives together.

If you enjoy my writing, please consider supporting me. There are several ways of doing so, and not all of them cost money:

1. Subscribe to this blog. Thank you if you have already subscribed.

2. Follow me on Farcaster, YouTube, and/or TikTok.

3. Get my free or paid membership tier powered by Unlock Protocol (it will unlock parts of my WIP website).

4. Leave a tip using the recently implemented system here on Paragraph by clicking the "Support" button at the top of the article and leaving a tip. Thank you if you have already done so.

Looking back, 2017 was a year of personal and professional changes for me. One of them was that I followed my partner's professional calling, and we relocated all that we had across the ocean to settle in Lima, Peru. While the decision wasn't easy, it didn't feel hard either, even though my Spanish was at the level of being able to say "hola."

The truth is, Lima had a lot less of everything back then, and while some negative aspects might have grown over the years, others have improved. Peru has a rich history and heritage, as does the entire continent of South America, and I believe it is time to shine a spotlight on this aspect, with a particular focus on fashion design. After visiting a few more South American countries this year, I feel I can share a broader story about the brands I want to highlight, based on my own purchases and the stories connected to discovering them.

Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored article.

Back in 2019, we rented a car at Arequipa airport and drove all the way through the Andes to Puno, at Lake Titicaca. Needless to say, the dirt and gravel roads are still there today, and my back remembers them well, but there is almost nothing as beautiful as spending a clear, starry night on an artificial island made by the Uros tribe on the lake that connects Peru with Bolivia. It is unique to say the least, and even on the small islands, artisan craft is in full bloom. I took a beautiful tapestry with me before returning through Kolka Canyon to Arequipa and visiting the leading producer of Alpaca threads.

Only after that journey across the country did my love for alpaca garments and the wider Peruvian fashion scene ignite. Here are my personal favorites:

Kuna was the first brand I got in touch with, even before I moved to Peru. In 2014, my partner went to visit his friends in Peru and surprised me with an extremely elegant poncho made of baby alpaca. I think it was the softest thing I had ever touched, and the elaborate shine of the combed fibers only made it more pleasing. Therefore, it was no surprise to learn that even among South American alpaca brands, Kuna stands out for its luxury textiles, technical innovation, high-quality craftsmanship, and sustainable production. All of Kuna's collections pay homage to ancestral Peruvian textile techniques, blending sleek modernism with sometimes vibrant Andean motifs and natural colors. Each garment, especially their Vicuña series, shines with a sense of exclusivity and authenticity, all while prioritizing fair practices and preserving local traditions.

Website | https://pe.kunastores.com/

Butrich is quite literally a store you can't miss. The whole brand narrative draws heavily on the aesthetics of the Memphis Group, with its pink, geometric interiors and a design language best described as vibrantly colorful and playful. Of course, the first boots I got in the store were pink and featured a bold flower on the pointed toe. Butrich was founded by designer Jessica Butrich in 2004. In the conservative Peruvian fashion landscape, Butrich truly stands out by blending retro influences, playful pop elements, and elegant Latin flair. Each piece is handcrafted in Peru by master shoemakers, celebrating traditional manufacturing techniques while embracing a contemporary sense of fun. Each collection expresses a dynamic, colorful “Butrich universe” designed for confident women who love to experiment with fashion. With flagship boutiques in Lima and an international following, Butrich stands for lasting quality, creativity, and the joyful spirit of modern Peruvian design.

Website | https://butrich.com.pe/

I crossed paths with Gabuteau for the first time when I was still living on the other side of Lima in San Isidro. One day-that's at least how it felt to me- there was this beautiful leather goods flagship store, and I couldn't take my eyes off of it. The brand is celebrated for its timeless approach to design and craftsmanship. Rooted in classic style yet attentive to contemporary trends, Gabuteau produces truly high-quality handmade bags and leather accessories crafted by master artisans. Each piece shares the same minimalist approach while standing out with its individual attention to detail, often expressed in a specific color, unique shape, or modular addons. By now, Gabuteau has several boutiques across Lima and Trujillo, as well as an international presence in Madrid.

Website | https://gabuteau.com/en/

Sofia, the founder of M4T3RI4, and I first met online in the Web3 space. Like me, she is a huge fan of virtual try-ons via virtual reality. Since this is a niche space in Web3, it didn't take us long (still long enough) to realize that both of us live in Lima. I genuinely find her work exceptional, but what fascinates me even more is her approach to design. Sofia brings her designs to life as 3D models first, with all of them designed directly in virtual reality. To me, M4T3RI4 belongs to the realm of cutting-edge Peruvian brands that are pioneering the fusion of digital technology and traditional craftsmanship in contemporary jewelry. M4T3RI4’s innovation has earned recognition—including digital-only NFT earrings featured in Vanity Fair—and support from Startup Perú's “Emprendimientos Innovadores” program.

Website | https://materia.com.pe/

The first time I traveled to Colombia was to Bogotá back in 2019. We explored the city and the Museo del Oro (The Gold Museum) over a short weekend; it was over too soon. The second time I visited Bogotá, I attended Devcon 6, a blockchain developer conference held in April 2022. I barely had time to explore much else, as these conferences tend to be quite exhausting. But on the bright side, my Web3 friend Domingo attended as well and invited me to visit him and his wife in his hometown, Medellin. Soon, I took him up on the offer and got simultaneously introduced to a bunch of cool Colombian brands. Here are my favorite shares so far:

Vélez is a leading Colombian leather brand celebrated for combining artisanal heritage with timeless design and innovation. Founded in Medellín in 1986, Vélez crafts handmade bags, shoes, jackets, and accessories that showcase expert technique, rich storytelling, and a commitment to quality. Each piece reflects sustainable values and a dedication to responsible production, blending the legacy of Colombian leatherwork with contemporary style. The first item I got from the brand was a men's backpack, with a sleek design in refined black leather and neon lemon accents. And apparently, the only backpack in the world that would fit my oversized laptop. It is an exceptional piece of leathercraft and reflects the quality Vélez continues to offer its customers. The clothing line has expanded as well, and makes me wonder what else they have up their sleeves.

Website | https://www.velezartisan.com/

Silvia Tcherassi is a name that rang a strong bell when I passed by her boutique in Bogotá. The colorful and vibrant prints stand tall against the otherwise relatively dry cityscape. I took a look but didn't have the opportunity to explore her designs in person. Hence I did my online research and next time I visit Colombia I will make sure to not miss out again on this trailblazing Colombian designer who effortlessly blends elegance, modern femininity, and Latin flair. She has been known for pioneering “casual luxury,” and to no surprise, her garments have graced the official runways of Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks. She founded the brand in Barranquilla in the late 1980s, which has since grown into over 15 boutique stores worldwide and partnerships with premier luxury retailers. Clearly, Silvia Tcherassi has set a new standard for Latin American fashion, earning some of France’s highest honors and inspiring a new generation of designers with her commitment to artistry, sustainability, and narrative-driven style.

Website | https://silviatcherassi.com/

While not a fashion brand, but a lifestyle and cosmetics brand, Loto del Sur stood out to me right away when I first saw its storefront. The brand is well-known across Colombia for specializing in botanical beauty, fragrance, and home care products inspired by South America's diverse landscapes. With a philosophy rooted in natural wellness and sensory experience, Loto del Sur crafts artisanal formulas using native botanical ingredients and time-honored traditions. The brand offers luxurious body care, perfumes, candles, and skincare essentials—each infused with rich storytelling and a deep respect for the region’s biodiversity. Renowned for its commitment to sustainability, authenticity, and sophisticated design, Loto del Sur has also become a staple in my household, greeting friends and visitors with fragrances inspired by the spirit of the South.

Website | https://www.lotodelsur.com/cl/es/

For all these years in South America, people just assumed I had been to Brazil, when in fact I had never been until this year (2025). We had planned a trip for my birthday in November 2024, but due to a family passing, it never came to be. Instead, we rebooked for April this year and then spontaneously met up with friends for an extended weekend in August again. So what had been neglected for years became a staple in 2025. While walking along the Copacabana, we discovered more than we anticipated. Here are some of my personal favorite discoveries:

HStern is not a brand you want to miss out on when visiting South America. Their jewelry pieces range from haute elegance to contemporary wearable pieces. Headquartered in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, they are globally renowned for their highest level of jewelry craftsmanship. The luxury jewelry brand was founded by German immigrant Hans Stern in 1945. HStern elevated Brazil's native gemstones, such as topaz, amethyst, and tourmaline, to global prestige. Their catalogue is organized into distinct collections, often featuring vibrant colored gemstones, organic shapes in contrast to architectural design, but always with an innovative spirit. Today, the brand continues to set trends with its first island flagship store at Lima Airport. It's beautiful, it's open, and their staff is extremely welcoming, even if you just want to browse.

Website | https://hstern.com/

When strolling in one of Rio's malls on a rainy day I had to look twice discovering Marcela B's store. A minimalist boutique with a native touch is the best way to describe it in a nutshell. The Brazilian fashion footwear brand rooted in Rio is renowned for its striking fusion of local artistry and timeless sophistication. Designer Marcela Basto is the creative force behind the label, bringing an artisanal approach to accessory design that blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. Each collection showcases a dedication to handmade techniques, playful yet refined designs, and materials that reflect the diversity of Brazil's culture. The brand's boutique in Rio is a destination for locals and travelers alike (now including myself), offering an immersive experience into the world of Brazilian craft and innovative shoe design.

Website | https://www.marcelab.com/

Foxton was a spontaneous surprise we came across while walking two parallel streets from Ipanema Beach. Something you don't expect, but when it happens, it turns into a longer and more memorable stay than expected. While their cuts are pretty classic and, at least to me, feel quite unisex, Foxton is, for good reasons, one of Brazil's leading menswear brands. You can feel the commitment to quality, comfort, and timeless design even before you fully enter the store. I was not surprised to learn that some of their staples use "Pima Algodon," the finest cotton fiber available, sourced from Peru. The brand's philosophy emphasizes premium materials, keeping its cuts classic and highlighting uniqueness through smart details. Foxton is an excellent reference in contemporary Brazilian fashion, whether for women or men, because I ended up wearing their pieces as well.

Website | https://www.foxtonbrasil.com.br/

2025 marks the year I visited Bolivia for the first time. While I came close once, being in Puno on Lake Titicaca, I had never crossed the border before. My friend Ceci, who is based in La Paz and a fellow Steward at Unlock, invited me to Ethereum Bolivia, which was held in Santa Cruz. There, we went for a stroll through a nearby shopping mall after lunch, and she introduced me to some of the brands listed here. So most of it, if not all, of the credit for the brand selection goes to her and her elegant fashion taste:

Liliana Castellanos' store was the first we saw when we entered the mall—an elegant, spacious, minimalist boutique with a strong focus on evening and cocktail wear. I instantly fell in love with a black short alpaca cape and couldn't let it go. The Liliana Catellanos brand is named after its founder, renowned for its sophisticated use of alpaca fiber and similarly high-end textiles. Each piece is produced with a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, ensuring minimal environmental impact while supporting skilled artisans across generations. The brand showcases continuously sophisticated collections featuring unique fiber combinations and timeless, elegant tailoring throughout their showrooms.

Website | https://www.instagram.com/lilianacastellanos_oficial

Luis Daniel Ágreda was introduced to me by Ceci upon my return to Peru. While his Instagram account serves as a digital lookbook, his TikTok is a valuable resource in Bolivian fashion education. Ágreda is an acclaimed Bolivian fashion designer with more than a decade of industry experience. Renowned for his vibrant creativity and keen sense of style, Ágreda's work celebrates Bolivian cultural heritage through distinctive, author-driven designs. His eponymous label is dedicated to producing unique pieces that elevate Bolivia's artisan traditions, blending contemporary trends with the rich visual universe of his homeland. Ágreda is recognized for his passion, innovation, and dedication to modernizing Bolivian fashion while staying true to its roots. His Instagram account is more image and fashion-driven, while his TikTok is more focused on the story-driven elements of his design.

Website | https://www.tiktok.com/@luisdaniel.agreda

WEISE Atelier is a Bolivian prêt-à-couture brand founded in 2011 by designer Ericka Suárez Weise in Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Inspired by a three-generation family legacy in haute couture, the label is celebrated for its meticulous handmade craftsmanship and for creating original textiles in its own atelier. WEISE’s collections embody a vision of wearable art—blending tradition, innovative textile techniques, and contemporary elegance. The brand’s signature style features intricate details, structured silhouettes, and a minimalist yet expressive aesthetic. Recently, WEISE Atelier earned international recognition, winning “Ready-to-Wear Latin Designer of the Year” at the 2025 Latin American Fashion Summit in Miami. I wish I had been able to see their sculptural pieces close up, but until my next stay in Bolivia, this will have to wait.

Website | https://weiseatelier.com/

When Europeans think about the fashion scene of emerging countries, many of us (from the conversations I have had) seem to recall scandalous events connected with fast fashion, such as the illegal landfills in Chile's Atacama desert or the unlawful deforestation that is connected to the cotton used by H&M, Zara, and many more.

Seldom have I seen the general media or individual journalists focus on the incredibly vibrant, unique, and often sustainable approaches of South American native brands to fashion design. I hope this article serves as a reminder that non-native brands are the root of these scandals, which can lead to overlooking truly fantastic product and fashion design from here, produced very consciously and often giving back to the environment they take from.

South America is more than an emerging voice; in my humble opinion, it is a wellspring of heritage, craft, and creative vision for the global fashion community. To designers, consumers, and brands worldwide: look to these lands not only as equals, but as an example of well-rooted inspiration and master artistry.

The future of design, among other elements, is richer when we step beyond borders and welcome new perspectives together.

If you enjoy my writing, please consider supporting me. There are several ways of doing so, and not all of them cost money:

1. Subscribe to this blog. Thank you if you have already subscribed.

2. Follow me on Farcaster, YouTube, and/or TikTok.

3. Get my free or paid membership tier powered by Unlock Protocol (it will unlock parts of my WIP website).

4. Leave a tip using the recently implemented system here on Paragraph by clicking the "Support" button at the top of the article and leaving a tip. Thank you if you have already done so.