Andre Namitala, the creative director of Handred, doesn’t believe in shallow dives when it comes to researching his collections. For his latest endeavor, he delved deep into the heart of Bahia, Brazil, exploring the historical city of Cachoeira and the meandering Rio Paraguacu. This journey, from the Chapada Diamantina to the Bay of All Saints, ignited his creative spark.
The preserved architecture of Cachoeira, tales passed down through generations, the sun’s reflection dancing on the river, the skilled artisans, and the village-like atmosphere where few use cell phones, all captivated Andre. He was particularly drawn to the Irmandade da Boa Morte, a women’s brotherhood founded in the early 19th century, initially established to grant freedom to enslaved women.
This inspiration translated into a collection that unfolded like a story. The first looks emerged from the runway as if rising from the river, damp and ethereal. They were followed by diaphanous dresses, their movement evocative of the water’s sway. Andre’s meticulous attention to detail was evident in the exquisite embroidery, painstakingly crafted with threads and gemstones, adding structure to the fluid silhouettes.
Handred, committed to using only natural fibers, embraced the inherent fluidity of these materials. This season, they experimented with doubling certain fabrics to achieve greater structure, further enhancing the collection’s captivating depth. The result is a collection that embodies the essence of Cachoeira, where history, nature, and craft intertwine to create a truly unique and inspiring expression of fashion.