Colombia’s premiere fashion event is only halfway through, but Proexport’s Vice President Ricardo Vallejo has already declared Colombiamoda a success.
According to the company behind Colombiamoda, the event has already seen over 600 buyers through its doors, 70 percent of whom are first-time visitors to the trade-show in Medellin.
Journalist and fashion commentator Pilar Castaño said Colombiamoda has helped place the country on the world fashion map. “If this show had not brought the number of buyers it has brought thanks to the help of Proexport, we would not be on the map, now we are known in China, Russia, Mexico, Australia, all because of Colombiamoda” she said.
Following on from a spectacular opening show by fashion prodigy Esteban Cortazar, Colombiamoda has continued to show-case the very best in Colombian home talent.
Traditional Colombian brand Pepa Pombo staged a show on Tuesday characterized by elegance and luxury. Entitled “Love in the Air,” the fashion house showed off a more youthful, contemporary side with its new collection, thanks to new direction by Monica Holguin. “It’s a very feminine collection, inspired by a woman traveler. It’s versatile, very soft and feminine,” explained the designer, whose variety of asymmetrical, maxi, off-the-shoulder dresses in different shapes and styles was received with rapturous applause.
Daniel Hoyos showed his evolution as a designer since his first foray on the Colombiamoda catwalk. His small but beautifully-crafted collection of around 25 pieces included an selection of suits with slender silhouettes, boldly patterned linings and bright belt buckles. In his womenswear, Hoyos had clearly embraced the body-con trend with a selection of tight dresses showing the female off to its best advantage.
Perhaps unsurprisingly given Colombia’s climate and limitless supply of well-proportioned models, swim wear and lingerie have so-far drawn the biggest crowds. Agua Bendita put forward a vibrant range of one-pieces, bikinis, pretty kaftans and minidresses all nicely accessorized with a selection of beach bags and bathrobes. Underwear brand La Senza also showed off its a strikingly feminine new collection characterized by subtle detailing with lace, ribbons and bows.
The event has also seen its fair share of debuts. Rising fashion star Andres Lopera avant-garde collection admirably combined wearable fashion with haute-couture for an extremely well-received inaugural show. It was also former model Adriana Aboleda’s first time behind the scenes as she showcased her own line Filosofy Pink, which according to Aboleda, defines itself by romanticism, freedom of thought and generosity. Purple tones dominated the lightweight and comfortable collection, which included pieces like over-sized shirts and harem pants.
It was perhaps designer Lina Cantillo who caused the greatest stir with her runway tribute to “life cycles.” Regular models shared the catwalk with pregnant women, children and older women all dressed in Cantilla’s line Natura. “I want to explain to everyone what Natura is about. It’s about the cycle of life, from the time we’re in our mother’s womb as we grow, mature, live and be happy. I believe in that cycle and that all women of all ages are beautiful” the Baranquilla-based designer explained.