The web series ‘A Nova Geração da Moda Brasileira’ (The New Generation of Brazilian Fashion) continues its exploration of emerging designers and brands that are redefining what it means to be Brazilian in the world of fashion. This series highlights designers who are not only embracing their heritage but also pushing boundaries with sustainable practices.
Dayana Molina, the founder of Nalimo, is a prime example of this. Her brand is a powerful statement of indigenous representation in fashion, with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. “I grew up with references of collective processes with other women, and my desire to create the brand was with this perspective,” she explains. But for Dayana, it wasn’t enough to simply create within her own studio. In January 2021, she established the Aldeia Criativa Design do Futuro (Creative Village Design of the Future) school, offering free design education to empower young indigenous talent in the fashion industry. “I don’t see fashion just as an aesthetic appeal. For me, it goes through a social and political perspective as well.”
Similarly, Foz, the brand created by Alagoas-born Antonio Castro, celebrates the rich cultural memories of his homeland through simple yet powerful designs. “When we talk about Brazilian culture, it’s an intangible concept, but craftsmanship is the materialization of this culture. It is a tool for building the fashion identity that we want to show,” Castro says.
Marina Bitu, another designer featured in the series, brings a unique design perspective to the vibrant creativity of Ceará. Her inspiration for the pleats in her dresses, skirts, pants, and blouses comes directly from the shape of the accordion, a traditional instrument of the region. “Fortaleza inspires this relationship between designer and artisan. It is very important for us to move the local economy.”
The new episodes of the web series, presented by model Maria Klaumann, showcase the innovative work of these designers and many more. From Nalimo to Foz, Mayara Junges, Gansho, David Lee, and Meninos Rei, this series offers a compelling glimpse into the future of Brazilian fashion, a future that is both vibrant and sustainable, rooted in heritage and driven by a commitment to social change.
