Text and Video, Vivian Kelly

Reem Acra Bridal Gown from the Spring 2013 Collection Show

What in the h–l does one of fashion’s must luxurious fashion lines [Reem Acra] have to do with Nina Catarina,[an artisanal Mexican clothing and accessories collection]?

Answer: They’re Both All About Women, strong women.

I’ve been thinking a lot about strong women lately. It started as I stood on my chair at the exclusive Reem Acra spring 2013 bridal show at her plush Fifth Avenue showroom/offices shooting the video shown in this post. The end of the show was a surprise which the designer explained as “redefining the way modern women reveal their strength” in her program notes. In one of these gowns, a woman becomes transformed into an other-worldly being, an auspicious way to start a new segment of her life.

A week later, on the Riviera Nayarit, in Punta de Mita, I met with Mexican artist/fashion designer, Ana Pena . She was setting up her new studio in the Pasha Bazar space where I found the Baixada python bags in an earlier post.

Detail - Hand Sewn Birds on Nina Catrina Wrap Skirt

I loved Ana’s work with these local women artisans, which came about when she branched out after years of non-profit work on behalf of women in need. She creates a sketch of a design concept and gives it to local women she works with. The results are beautiful handstitched one of a kind pieces such as the tee she wore or a wrap skirt with birds embroidered on it.

I spotted a fellow traveler wearing a pair she’d bought during her stay at the nearby Four Seasons Resort. With Ana’s support, this local woman artist is finally experiencing some success at retail.

Nina Catrina Leather and Suede Hobo Bag

Nina Catrina Straw Bag

On the surface, Ana’s wrap skirts and Reem’s bridal gowns are very different. On a deeper level, they serve a similar purpose – to give women a sense of pride, and that’s a powerful gift that lasts far beyond the day you create or wear the dress.

To Contact Ana about her curated collection: bonitabythesea@gmail.com//cell:  044 322 160 98 30

I’m waiting for Half the Sky to arrive, a book Ana said was a “must read”, which delves further into women and their place in the world.