7 Designers to Celebrate International Day of Afro-Latin American, Afro-Caribbean, and Diaspora Women
Model @amadamendozaa in Lia Samantha Lilac Eva Picnic Dress. Photo: Lia Samantha
July 25th entered the calendar of celebrations of African cultural heritage as the International Day of Afro-Latin American, Afro-Caribbean, and Diaspora Women in 1992, by the United Nations (UN). The goal was to bring these women together to celebrate pride in their roots and encourage the ongoing fight against racism. To honour this date, let us present some designers who have been sharing these same goals in the global fashion market.
Diana Cordoba
Hailing from Colombia, the jewellery designer made Brazil her home a few years ago. Organic and minimalist jewellery which follow the forms of nature are her signature. Her eponymous brand values are conscious consumption where care and a good relationship with time are essential—making each and every piece unique.
Fe Noel
Designer Felisha Noel grew up in a family of entrepreneurs, which undoubtedly influenced her own professional career. With roots in Grenada, in the middle of the Caribbean Sea, Noel created her eponymous brand with delicate pieces that value the sensuality of the female body. Her objective is for her clients to feel beautiful and confident in their achievements, with sophistication as an expressive mark of their identity.
Izabella Suzart
From the A-Aurora brand, Suzart has been presenting a new look at luxury in the Brazilian footwear industry. Afro-Brazilian identity is a central pillar of her business narrative, and with a strong political stance, the designer discusses contemporary themes and values, especially concerning common experiences among Black women. Her shoes are minimalist, clean and made with certified raw materials.
Lia Samantha
The Colombian designer is known for blending traditional African fabrics with contemporary aesthetics. The result? Her creations showcase different volumes and textures, presenting light and fun clothes. She is also dedicated to social impact initiatives, which led her to be recognized as one of the Most Influential People of African Descent in Colombia.
Melissa Mercedes
Through necklines, slits and fitted waists, the designer with Latin roots subverts the idea that curvy and plus size women should be ashamed of their bodies. Mercedes creates clothes so that women always feel beautiful, promoting self-confidence, self-love and empowerment through fashion. Her designs are sophisticated and sensual.
Melissa Simon-Hartman
A descendant of the cultures of Trinidad and Tobago, Melissa Simon-Hartman is a designer recognised for the great inventiveness of her pieces. Her proposal is to produce wearable art. She also counts Beyoncé among her clients who she developed some costumes for her film Black is King and her most recent Renaissance tour. Simon-Hartman’s designs are made to create great visual impact.
Naya Violeta
Naya Violeta is one of the first Black designers from the Midwest region of Brazil to gain national prominence. She creates light and sunny clothes, with affection as the guiding principle of her work. Visual narratives are part of her imagination, as well as symbols of Afro-Brazilian religiosity.