Forbes Colombia spoke with designer Andrés Otálora about this project and his expectations for the launch.
The climax of the first night of Colombiamoda took place with an underground runway, set amidst the construction of the new section of the Túnel de Oriente. The rustic staging evoked the sunset in La Guajira, with sand, water, and warm lighting.
With this capsule, which will be available in stores for about five months, Otálora not only challenged himself with an unconventional setup but also ventured into creating menswear, a category he had not previously explored.
Forbes Colombia spoke with the designer about this project and his expectations. "I started my export process six years ago, and today 80% of production goes abroad. Amid this growth, I collaborated with Falabella a few years ago, and last October, Grupo Éxito contacted me to do something similar, this time with Arkitect," he said.
He accepted without hesitation, driven by the purpose of allowing many women—and now men—to connect with the DNA of his brand and have the opportunity to wear pieces that embody the essence of his designs, at a more accessible price compared to his premium line. "I was happy because you can't be selfish with design and the brand; I wanted everyone to be able to own a piece," added the designer from Cali.
With more than 20 years of experience, the designer assures that he is in one of his best moments and that it's time to dress in Andrés Otálora.
Otálora mentioned that the most challenging part of this collection was adapting his prints to menswear without making the designs appear too feminine, so he opted for more neutral prints and simpler options.
Regarding his participation in the fair and the importance of these spaces for the local industry, the designer stated that Colombia is going through good times in terms of design, as the world is talking about national talent, innovative proposals, and their quality. "Today, at the world's major fairs, they see you as equals, whereas before, Colombia wasn't even on their radar."
Now, Colombian designs are sought after on all continents, and it is precisely spaces like the one Inexmoda opens that have enabled the internationalization of Colombian fashion, emphasized the designer.
To new fashion entrepreneurs, he simply says, "It’s okay to dream."
He added, "I feel like a child inside when I create a collection, with curiosity alive, imagining how someone would look dressed in my designs. You have to be persistent, consistent, and clear about where you want to go. Look inside yourself to understand what you believe you have talent for and give it your all."
By Joselin Cuartas Barrios for Forbes Colombia.