Fashion has always been a part of me. As a kid, I used to help my mother find fabulously eccentric looks at Kenzo. As a sophomore in college, I got an internship at Vogue, which cemented my love for the industry. I got to see some of the most prolific editors at work, while creating Vogue’s first and only multi-designer fashion show — it was a magical experience. It was also where I met Lauren Santo Domingo, a woman whose vision and impeccable taste shaped my own. So, when I heard LSD was launching Moda Operandi, I knew I had to work there. For seven years, I was the jewelry buyer, constantly sourcing new and emerging brands.
I learned to take risks in my assortment, champion unknown designers, and create a unique aesthetic that mixes both fashion and fine jewelry. Now that I’m back in Latin America, working as Azzi&Co’s jewelry director, I continue my favorite task of finding the next new names in luxury. Here are some of my favorite discoveries:
Marie De La Roche
Colombian-in-Asia Marie de la Roche creates beautifully-structured handbags in supple leather and exotic skins. Her mini Nada bag is one of my favorite additions to any outfit. It is playful yet luxurious. Her shapes are always unexpected— an intelligent play on functionality.
AnnieHC
Finding denim with impeccable fit is always incredibly tough, but AnnieHC masters it. Her jeans are high-waisted, magically slimming, and oh-so comfortable.Plus, for the maximalists like me, she embellishes them with beautiful lacework and beading. Did I mention they are also sustainable?
Caimana Hats
Before Caimana, I was not a hat person. But designer Sergio Delgado has quickly convinced me otherwise. He uses luxe felt, and decorates each piece with hand-sewn embroidery, dyed feathers or ribbons. Each hat is anything but boring! I can’t wait for his new collection.
Prasi
Brazilian designers Helena Sicupira and Mariana Prates create the most luxurious 18K gold and platinum pieces. Crafted in the finest ateliers in Italy and Brazil, their heavy two-tone chains are my newfound obsession. Their pieces are the definition of classics with a twist. They’ll elevate your everyday look and elegantly accentuate any black-tie outfit.
Maygel Coronel
This incredible woman has figured out how to create one-size swim and ready-to-wear pieces that actually fit everyone. Her body-hugging silhouettes make everyone feel absolutely fabulous. Her dresses are perfect for hot nights in Cartagena and New Year’s Eve in Baru.
Beat a Bee
Over the past two years, exercise has become fundamental for me. It’s how I stayed sane throughout the pandemic. Beat a Bee does the most fabulous, metallic work-out clothes, which make me feel glamorous even when I’m sweating like crazy. Their pieces are functional— some are even reversible. They are also committed to sustainability, using recyclable nylon for all of their designs.