goes with anything

The winter season has arrived with style and comfort, thanks to Adbel Ataurima's talented mind. The Peruvian artisan knits this precious pullover sweater with recycled polyester and cotton yarns, allowing the garment to be a cozy piece with a touch of environmental engagement. Accented by a mock-turtle neck and bishop sleeves, this blue-toned design has a lovely winter landscape adorning its front.

"This is like a two-in-one piece, it is designed like an open sweater with long lapels that can be wrapped like a shawl," explains Guatemalan designer Luisa Villavicencio. The wrap sweater is knitted with cotton in a natural ivory hue, which is harvested at Villencencio's farm.

Painted by hand with a wax resist using the batik method, colorful designs decorate the bust and collared neckline of this snow white tunic from Thailand. Alaya Cholprasertsuk creates the cotton top and decorates it with dark veins. Three-quarter length sleeves and a coconut shell button at the back of the neck complete her design.

This stunning hot pink tunic is the creation of Isha Jain in India. Crafted of a cotton/silk blend, the neckline and hem of the tunic feature gold and silver gota embroidery, an applique-like technique that originated in Rajasthan and is traditionally used on wedding and formal garments. Gold zari embroidery, sequins and sparkling faux stones add extra glamour. The semi-sheer tunic features three-quarter length sleeves and a cotton-lined bodice.

With it's beautiful dark blue fabric, K. Baka's tote bag will go with most anything in your wardrobe. Crafted from 100% cotton in Ghana, the tote features a charming zebra motif, two shoulder straps, and an open top that lets you toss in books, groceries, and other items throughout the day.

Designer Luisa Villavicencio and her family maintain the last remaining cotton farm in Guatemala, where they produce the materials used in their natural fashions. This laid-back poncho is created using undyed cotton and reclaimed denim fibers in a striking asymmetrical design with fringe details.
Luisa's family cultivates cotton in several natural colors, and the family is involved in the entire process, from growing the cotton to transforming it into apparel. Says Luisa, "There are 80 artisans working with us. Some are civil war widows. Others always felt that they couldn't do anything, and we've been able to change that negative self image... A lot of families depend on us. I feel I have a great duty to them, to my parents and to my country, whose textile tradition should not be lost."