On November 19, the Latin American Studies Program and the Department of Spanish hosted fashion designer Julieta Zavala for a discussion on the importance of sustainable fashion. Zavala, a 2014 graduate of the Art Institute of Philadelphia, founded her clothing brand, Julieta Zavala Sewing & Design, with a focus on using eco-friendly materials to create her designs.
Originally from Mexico City, Zavala moved to Delaware and aimed to blend her Spanish and English cultural influences into her brand. She achieved this by incorporating Spanglish phrases into her t-shirt designs, such as “Tianguis Time,” which refers to street markets, and “I Love Cumbia,” celebrating the Latin American dance style that originated in Colombia.
“I loved getting to buy one of her pieces,” said a senior political science and Spanish student. “It felt really special to wear something she created and hear her talk about its inspiration.”
Zavala’s work is not just about unique fashion; it’s about making a positive impact on the environment. She upcycles fabrics found in thrift stores and repurposes unconventional materials, such as tablecloths and market bags, to create her pieces.
One standout creation is the Pre-Hispanic Seed Dress, made entirely of natural seeds—beans, lentils, and maize—symbolizing the indigenous connection to the earth and food cultivation. The dress also features jute thread, adding texture and emphasizing the ancestral sustainability practices that Zavala cherishes.
For Zavala, her clothing serves as more than just wearable art; it is a means of expressing cultural identity and advocating for change. Looking ahead, she plans to expand her brand while continuing to prioritize sustainability and community impact.
“I look forward to collaborating with artisans and local creators, giving them a platform to showcase their talent while preserving traditional techniques,” Zavala said. She also aims to introduce more contemporary designs to appeal to younger audiences.
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