Johanna Ortiz knows how to throw a great party. Her biannual presentations in Paris have the kind of vibrant ambience you rarely find at Fashion Week. In our new reality though, the idea of a fabulous gathering feels increasingly remote. At this point, there are no crystal ball predictions on what the world will look like even two months from now, let alone come party season.
Ortiz is banking on a future in which special occasions are celebrated with a close-knit circle of friends and family in the intimacy of one’s home. Her new collection reflects that domestic landscape in a way that feels right for the moment. The frothy party frocks she’s known for have been pared back for resort, made from sensible cotton and cut to the ankle. (Who needs heels when you’re padding around at home for the holidays?) Even the seemingly elaborate pieces come with multiway styling possibilities; her famous ruffled sleeves are detachable for the most part.
Like many designers, she’s thinking practically with her resources, repurposing fabric from seasons past with help from local artisans. Their hand-embroidered straps and raffia trimmings lend an earthy glamour to the brand’s signature column dresses and tiered evening gowns. On the more minimal end of the spectrum, there’s an elegant red jumpsuit that’s draped around the body with all the ease of a beach pareo—sophistication without the fuss.
Perhaps most impressive of all is the Colombian designer’s commitment to her team. Of the 360 mostly female employees who work between the design studio and the production atelier, none have been furloughed or laid off in the months since the pandemic hit. Given the current state of the industry, it’s an accomplishment she has every right to be proud of—one that’s well worth celebrating.
