Kené Kaya’s Amazonía Collection: A Celebration of Peruvian Indigenous Art
In the bustling world of fashion, where trends often overshadow tradition, Kené Kaya emerges as a beacon of cultural reverence and artistic innovation. Founded by Peruvian designer Alessandra Durand, Kené Kaya is not just a fashion brand; it is a spirited homage to the rich heritage of Peru’s indigenous communities, particularly those of the Shipibo-Conibo of the Peruvian Amazon, with her latest collection, Amazonía.
Amazonia collection debut at Miami Swim Week. Photographer Thomas Concordia (Getty Images)
The name "Kené Kaya" itself encapsulates the essence of the brand – "the spirit of design" in the native language of Shipibo-Conibo. For Alessandra, a Miami-based designer with a background in international development, Kené Kaya represents a heartfelt journey to empower and showcase the incredible talent she witnessed in the streets of Lima during her trips back home. Inspired by the vibrant textiles and artwork of Peru's indigenous artisans, Alessandra set out to bridge the gap between their local craftsmanship and global fashion markets.
Designer Alessandra Durand at artist Olinda Silvano’s studio, painted above
The journey of Kené Kaya took a significant step forward with its inaugural swim and resort wear collection unveiled in May at Miami Swim Week. Titled "Amazonía," the SS25 collection captivated audiences with a vibrant tribute to the colors, wildlife, and indigenous artisans of the Peruvian Amazon. The runway became a canvas where traditional craftsmanship met contemporary fashion, showcasing swimsuits and resort wear adorned with colorful geometric patterns and vibrant hues.
Model Nicole Frost at Miami Swim Week for Kene Kaya. Photographer Thomas Concordia (Getty Images)
"I am always trying to experiment with different mediums that integrate indigenous artwork," explains Alessandra, who presented swimwear for the first time at Miami Swim Week. The Amazonía collection offered an elegant and cohesive array of swimwear made of colorful prints of geometric tribal patterns, a common feature of Shipibo-Conibo art, alongside one-of-a-kind embroidered and hand-painted cover-ups handmade by globally renowned Peruvian artists Olinda and Sadith Silvano.
Hand-painted kimono cape by artist Olinda Silvano at Miami Swim Week. Photographer Thomas Concordia (Getty Images)
A unique aspect of "Amazonía" is that all embroidered and hand-painted pieces are not mass-produced; only one of each exists in the world, each handmade by Peruvian artisans. For those who desire custom orders, Kené Kaya offers bespoke pieces through their website, ensuring that each garment remains exclusive and personally significant. This personalized approach ensures that every piece carries a story, a touch of individuality that mass production can never replicate. By embracing slow fashion and sustainable practices, Kené Kaya's "Amazonía" collection makes a bold statement against the backdrop of fast fashion, advocating for ethical and culturally significant fashion choices.
Model Nicole Frost. Photographer Joel Amory
Durand's innovative approach to integrating traditional art into contemporary fashion not only preserves but also promotes Peruvian culture on a global stage. She remarks, "This collection is a tribute to the beauty of the Amazon and the remarkable talent of its indigenous communities. Through ‘Amazonía,' I aim to showcase their artistry and foster a deeper appreciation for indigenous cultural heritage. I am honored to share the talent of artisans beyond the streets of Lima."
Model Nicole Frost. Photographer Joel Amory
Next on the horizon for Kené Kaya is a highly anticipated fashion show on July 24th in Miami in celebration of Peruvian Independence Day. This event, presented by Moda Peru USA in partnership with the Consulate of Peru in Miami, will bring together the best of Peruvian talent in fashion. It promises to be a spectacular showcase of Peruvian culture, featuring a blend of traditional and contemporary designs that highlight the rich cultural tapestry of Peru.
Alessandra’s journey with Kené Kaya is a testament to the transformative power of fashion when coupled with a profound respect for cultural heritage. Through her visionary designs, she is paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable fashion industry, one that values the stories and traditions woven into every garment. For more information and custom orders, visit Kené Kaya’s website and join the movement towards a fashion future that honors the past while embracing the future.
About Kené Kaya
Kené Kaya is a fashion brand dedicated to promoting and preserving indigenous craftsmanship through contemporary design. Founded by Alessandra Durand, the brand collaborates with indigenous artisans to create unique, high-quality garments that celebrate cultural heritage and support sustainable practices.
For more information about Kené Kaya and the "Amazonia" collection, check out www.kenekaya.com and follow @shopkenekaya on Instagram.