functional apparel

By Luisa Villavicencio, this handsome men's sweater is attractive and lightweight. Ribbed textures are knitted of natural cotton, with three palo blanco wood buttons. "My family cultivates cotton in several natural colors – jade, cocoa ixcaco and ivory, or crude cotton," the Guatemalan designer says. "In fact, people are surprised to learn that no dyes are used. The family is involved in the entire process, from growing the cotton, to weaving it and transforming it into apparel."

By Luisa Villavicencio, this handsome sweater is cozy but lightweight. Ribbed textures are knitted of natural cotton in ivory with subtle green hues, with three capirona wood buttons. "My family cultivates cotton in several natural colors – jade, ixcaco (cocoa) and ivory, or crude cotton," the Guatemalan designer says. "In fact, people are surprised to learn that no dyes are used. The family is involved in the entire process, from growing the cotton, to weaving it and transforming it into apparel."

The colorful genus of flowers known as "lily of the Incas" was the inspiration for this hand-embroidered organic cotton blouse. Peruvian artisans hand-stitch a handful of petite flowers along with a wealth of soutache embroidery and crocheted lace details at the bust and cuffs. Button-and-loop closures and a V-neck collar make this blouse perfect for work or weekends.

This chic blouse goes from casual day to dress-up functions with ease. Crafted in a textured dobby fabric,its multitude of details are anything but boring.Intricate tonal embroidery cascades from the shoulderto the bust, while shirring at the hem and sleeveopenings creates a blouson look.

This chic blouse by India's Seema Shah transitions from casual day to dress-up functions with ease. Crafted in a textured white fabric, its multitude of details is anything but boring. Intricate embroidery cascades from the shoulder to the bust while elastic shirring at the hem and sleeve openings creates a blouson look.