Around the Globe

New Year’s Around the Globe

Fri, December 30, 2011 No Comments by admin

With 2012 just around the corner, I began thinking about how my friends from around the globe were going to celebrate this wonderful event. Below you will find some traditional and not so traditional customs…

Happy New Year 2012

Happy New Year 2012

USA : It is a tradition to gather at Times Square in New York City on New Year’s eve and celebrate through the night until the clock announces onset of the new year. The entire program is telecasted live for the rest of the Americans and the world to watch from home. As the clock strikes past midnight, the entire Times Square breaks into euphoric cheers, honking cars and people sharing kisses to wade off the old and the evil. Among other popular new year traditions, people like to watch football games, crowd streets and have special food called Hoppin’ John with black-eyed beans, along with cakes and champagne for luck and prosperity.

UK : Welcoming the new year in UK is supposed to be noisy – full of loud cheers and whistles of family and friends, followed by kissing and drinking .

One of the most popular of UK new year traditions still prevalent is called “First Footing”. According to the custom, a family is blessed with good luck and prosperity if a tall, dark and good-looking male is the first person to enter through the front door after the new year arrives. Carrying a piece of coal, a loaf and a bottle of Whiskey, the visitor should neither speak to anyone nor be spoken to until he places the coal on fire, puts the loaf on table, serves the drink to the family head and finally wishes everyone a “Happy New Year”. He should leave the house through the back door to complete the tradition with flying colors. I
Colombia: People gather with family and friends and at the stroke of midnight, they eat 12 grapes and for each grape, ask for a wish in return. Champagne is used for toasts and tamales are a stable for dinner. There is a lot of dancing involved and singing. If you want to travel that year, you need to grab a suitcase and walk around the block at the stroke of midnight!
Denmark : It is pretty surprising but, it is very auspicious to find the door heaped with pile of broken dishes on New Year in Denmark. Throughout the year people save all the old dishes and then throw them at the entrance of the homes on the New Year eve. It is believed that the number of broken dishes you have, that many friends you have which is considered very auspicious.

In most of the parts of Scandinavian countries, New Year celebrations are done with great joy and preparation. There are many Danish cuisines which served on the New Year party eve. Kale, is among the favorite dishes which is served with sprinkled sugar and cinnamon with white sauce.

Greece : January 1st is the most important date in the history of Greece. The day is not only observed as New Year but, also as St Basil’s Day. The Greek Orthodox churches considered St Basil as one of the forefathers.

Special New Year bread is baked by all the family members. A coin is buried in the dough which is considered very auspicious. Greeks celebrate the New Year with great pomp and show. They share traditional sweet bread with everyone. The coin brings good luck and fortune for the year.

Some traditions to bring in good luck in the New Year

It is a common notion that the New Year will bring in new hopes and luck to people. Hence, people take utmost care in preparing themselves for the New Year.

Following are some of the popular practices that are performed at different countries to welcome good luck in the New Year.

Australia – In Australia suckling pigs are considered to bring good luck and hence, traditional foods are prepared with sucking pigs. In dessert they offer peppermint ice cream in the shape of four-leaf clover.

England- In Britain the tradition says that the first guest on the New Year must be male, carrying gifts for the master of the house.

Colombia – In Colombia, many people wear gold or red underwear for prosperity and good luck.

Spain – In Spain, people will eat 12 grapes with each stroke of the bell. This is said to bring good luck for the coming 12 months.

Japan – In Japan people decorate their homes with pine branch, bamboo stalk and plum blossom which symbolizes longevity, prosperity and nobility respectively.

India : Hindu New Year is the time of festivity. This is the time to meet and greet people and share gifts and sweets. Hindus will paint their houses, decorate it and lit up lamps and candles in the evening. Some of the traditions followed in Hindu New Year celebrations are,
• Lighting up oil lamps
• Making rangolis at houses
• Buying and gifting new clothes
• Distributing sweets amongst neighbors and relatives
• Worshiping Lord Ganesha and Goddess Laxmi. They are believed to bring in wealth and prosperity.

Whatever your traditions maybe, it is a wonderful time full of celebration and hope for the new year!
Happy New Year!!!

Xoxo

Judy

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The Mochila: The History Behind the New “It” Bag

Fri, June 17, 2011 No Comments by admin

The mochila undoubtedly embodies the Latin American spirit. Woven within it are the traditions of the various indigenous tribes. The mochila is a bag that comes in a cross-body knapsack/bucket style and is carefully woven with bold patterns by the indigenous women of several tribes in South America, particularly those near the border of Colombia and Venezuela.

These beautiful and exotic bags take incredible labor to make. In fact, it takes over 40 hours to make each one. As a direct result of this craft, the indigenous women who make them earn their livelihood, improve their standard of living and sustain the community. This tradition which has been passed down through women, generation to generation, has turned out to be very fruitful and pivotal in the sustainability of many of these indigenous communities.

Two of these indigenous tribes are the Wayuu and Arhuaca. The former is located in the Northern Colombian border known as the Guajira. It is estimated that the Wayuu people amount to approx 144,000. 20.5% of the population in Colombia. The Wayuu, utilize cotton to waeve their mochilas. One of their techniques is called “osonushi”, this technique is intimately related with the life of the Wayuu. It is said that “once upon a time” the spider Wale’keru taught the Guajira women how to weave the designs, each of which tells a sotry and has a special significance to its maker. The production of these mochilas has a direct positive impact and greatly benefits the women of this tribe. The latter are located in the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta, in the north eastern part of Colombia. These women use wool to weave their original designs to the mochilas, meant to display their view of life and the world around them. To them, as they weave their mochila, they build on the human relation and give meaning to life.

Today, there are several wonderful organizations and movements to promote the mochila. The Wayuu Taya Foundation is one of my favorites. Mochilas are sold all over the world. Even large retailers like Barneys are showcasing these. Global Fashionista and many other sites online offer a wide selection.

The most influential supporter of the mochilas in the fashion industry undoubtedly was the Mochila Project launched in 2009. The Mochila Project introduced the mochila to the fashion world. As a result of the efforts of Vogue editor Lauren Santo Domingo who spearheaded this wonderful project back in 2009, 12 of the world’s top fashion designers were given the task of redesigning a mochila. The results were amazing.
Recently, the mochila has become something of a cult item, toted around town by fashion editors and It girls, and the subject of chatter on style blogs. “It seems to be the iconic tribal bag,” said Anne Slowey, the fashion news director of Elle, who has picked up a few on her travels. “The perfect mix of practical, exotic and chic.”
The secret is out…what are you waiting for?

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Spring 2011 Hot Trend: Globe-Trotting Glamour

Wed, February 2, 2011 No Comments by admin

I know that many fashionistas are still wearing their winter attire, but it is time to move forward and add some warmth and playfulness back into your wardrobes! Luckily for all of us, the looks for spring will undoubtedly revitalize our spirits and awaken our senses… There is a look for everyone and I have never seen such mix of colors and patterns take over runways before. I myself admit to being an addict to wearing black, but it is time, even for me, to dare to break free and add some color to my life.
The looks on the Spring runways shared something in common: Globe-Trotting Glamour! A liberated celebration of all that everyday life is about. The designers showcased mixes of ethnic and otherworld, ardor and femininity, the whole trend being based on bold colors and prints.

There are plenty of choices out there and you can decide on the level of eclectic chic you are comfortable with. Designer Jenna Lyons from J. Crew has designed a totally playful and sophisticated collection we’ll be wearing Spring through Summer. For this J.Crew collection, it’s all about fresh femininity in standout colors, looks that speak to the total happiness of Spring.

Tory Burch also displays warm colors and a very ethnic chic look for Spring.

Tory Burch Resort Collection

Tory Burch Resort Collection

Alice and Olivia also showcased Globe-Trotting Glamour as the name of their Spring campaign. The looks combine prints, neutrals and bold colors as well. Even animal prints abound.

Alice and Olivia

Alice and Olivia Globe trotting glamour

Diane Von Furstenberg Gives You the World: Shop Her Globetrotting Spring/Summer Collection
Any globe-trotting trendsetter would be happy in this pile-on of patterns from Diane von Furstenberg.

DVF tribal print dress

DVF Tribal Print Dress from Globe-Trotting Collection

What shoe is a MUST have? Wedges! Yes ladies, make sure you get yourself a pair.
As to accessories, the cuff bracelet is an easy way to add edginess to any look. Wrist cuffs work with almost any look and designers such as Ralph Lauren made use of the wrist cuff for his western themed spring 2011 collection.

Global Fashionista bone and horn bracelet

Global Fashionista Eco Chic Bone and Horn Bracelet

Also, drop earring adds sophistication to almost any look. Check out Global Fashionista’s eco-friendly earrings. You can look good and at the same time support the environment!

Global Fashionista Eco Chic Tagua Drop Earrings

Global Fashionista Eco Chic Tagua Drop Earrings

So ladies, start planning those vacations and have fun with fashion this spring!
xoxo

Judy

photo credits: Dan & Corina Lecca

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What to Wear for the Holidays

Sat, December 4, 2010 1 Comment by admin

As famous fashion designer Trina Turk recently said “A holiday party is an opportunity to get dressed up, so wear something festive! Add some sparkle, whether it’s sequins, a metallic fabric, or rhinestone jewelry. Just don’t sparkle from head to toe! If you choose a fully sparkly dress, then keep your accessories more toned down. A simple tank, cardigan and mini in greys or blacks can get dressed up for a party with the right accessories–like metallic tights, fun booties, some sparkly jewelry, or a great little bag.”

The holidays are here and I am sure all of you are wondering what you are going to wear this year? So many parties, so many outfits! Check out these looks that are perfect for all you fashionistas who want to look GLAM for the holidays.

I have chosen several looks and categorized then into tribal, neutrals, red and glitter which happen to be some of the most desired trends in fashion for 2010. As always, remember to accessorize to make your outfit unique. With the right accessories you can turn even a simple tank and jeans into an amazing unforgettable outfit!

Tribal Chic

T-Bags at ShopStyle
Tibi at ShopStyle
Torn By Ronny Kobo at ShopStyle

All that Glitters

Sheri Bodell at ShopStyle
TFNC at ShopStyle
Rebecca Taylor at ShopStyle

Lady in Red

BCBG MAX AZRIA at ShopStyle
Shoshanna at ShopStyle
BCBG MAX AZRIA at ShopStyle

Sophisticated Neutrals

Camilla And Marc at ShopStyle
All Saints at ShopStyle
Sue Wong at ShopStyle

Whatever outfit you choose always remember that if you feel great in it, chances are you look GREAT in it!

Happy Holidays fashionistas!!

xoxo

Judy

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Holiday Travel Tips for Globe-Trotting Fashionistas

Tue, November 23, 2010 1 Comment by admin

Holiday travel is around the corner, so this is the perfect time for you to go over your travel plans. I absolutely love love love to travel! Along the way, I have learned a couple of valuable tips, which I am about to share with you.
I personally map out how many days I am going to be abroad and plan accordingly. Every day = 2- 3 outfits, but you do not want to pack too much and then end up paying overweight baggage fees! So here are my tips:
• Choose some pants/jeans/tights and shoes in neutral colors so that you can wear them twice! Be efficient!
• Roll up all of your clothes! This is the best way to save space in your suitcase.
• Put your shoes (ideally 2-3 pairs) in drawstring shoe bags or improvise with some plastic bags so as to not get your clothes dirty.
• Wear ballet flats or flat boots to be comfortable and preferably have socks on, so that when you go through security you do not have to walk on those dirty floors yuck! Tory Burch made a sock specifically for that moment when you have to quickly take off your shoes but want to avoid bare feet! She designed a Merino-wool sock with non-slip rubber that comes with a cute pouch and clip for your luggage so you can pull the socks on during security check
• For you shopaholic fashionistas, I strongly recommend putting a small bag in your luggage; in case you do any shopping you can easily use the extra bag so you don’t get stuck with overweight fees.
• Do not forget that airplanes get very cold! I suggest you take a pashmina in your bag to take out and use as a blanket. Some flights today do not even hand out blankets anymore, so be prepared.
• If you are traveling out of the country you might want to invest in a TSA approved lock for your suitcase . You definitely do not want to have any of your gorgeous belongings stolen and if you just use a regular lock and security needs to open your luggage, they will break it!
Do not forget to pack plenty of fashion accessories to accent and change up your looks! If you accessorize properly you can get away with taking less outfits.
Happy Thanksgiving and happy travels to all the fashionistas out there!
If there is anything I missed, please reply to his post and share your tips with us.

Xoxo

Judy

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Fair Trade 101: Supporting Global Artisans

Fri, November 19, 2010 1 Comment by admin

The fair trade movement in North America began in 1946 when Edna Ruth Byler, a volunteer with the Mennonite Central Committee, began importing crafts from Puerto Rico and selling them out of her car. In 2008, $1.1 billion of Fair Trade products were sold in the United States. That compares to considerably less than $100 million in 1996.
What brings so many to this movement? They share a passionate belief in fair trade, a fast-spreading phenomenon that aims to give businesses, cooperatives or solo artists in poor or marginalized parts of the world a higher price for what they create and a more direct route into lucrative markets in America, Europe and Asia.
The fair trade movement seems to be a step in the right direction, considering there are 2 billion people on this planet who live on less than $2 a day. It is clear that something must be done in order to provide a better future for these people.
For those of you interested in joining the movement, there are several routes you can take. There are many websites that provide all the necessary information on membership and what is required to receive a fair trade certification.
I personally, have always felt that crafts play an important role in keeping cultures and traditions alive. Since I was very young, my father shared his love for crafts with me, by taking me to many craft fairs in Colombia. I was simply amazed at all the beautiful things these artisans could do with their hands! From leather products, to home goods made of wood, coconut and palm. Every year I looked forward to attending these fairs with my father. In fact, even after I moved to the U.S I still made it a point to coordinate my trips to Colombia with the arrival of a craft fair.
The concept behind my business, Global Fashionista, is precisely to showcase these beautiful and artful pieces which are handcrafted by the very artisans I have admired so long. I feel a tremendous privilege, to get to work with them and learn their craft and the wonderful stories behind each piece. Buyers are drawn to products that apply traditional production techniques and materials to current trends, and so I try to infuse these traditional pieces with current fashion trends.

Overall, there are many ways you can support fair trade. The important legacy behind this movement is the help it brings to so many people around the globe. Schools are built, wells constructed, children attend school, and other signs clearly indicate that the income generated by fair trade sales positively resonate in a community. In intangible ways, one can note the impact of fair trade, as well. Cultural techniques are revived; women become valued members of their societies; alternative production methods preserve biodiversity; small and medium sized enterprises in the developing world increase their capacity. Through this and other evidence we know that lives have been positively changed, because of fair trade.

XOXO
Judy

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Hot Trend to Watch: Ethnic-Chic

Tue, November 16, 2010 1 Comment by admin

We have seen it slowly trickle onto the runways, but currently it has become a hot trend worldwide. So what is it exactly?

The ethnic-chic trend consists of strong, graphic prints (black and white graphics mixed with darker prints is a recognizable element) combined with warm, earthy tones (black, browns, deep reds and oranges) and natural accents (straw, wood, bone and horn). The ethnic-chic trend can also be felt in fringe and lots of bold colors and patterns. This look has been seen on the runways for several years now, but recently has exploded in the runways of many top fashion designers like Oscar de la Renta, Diane von Furstenberg, Lanvin and Louis Vuitton.
Ethnic-chic has become more than just a hot trend-it’s almost become a way of life. It is a new twist on boho chic that is less hippie and more ethnic in nature. This look depends on rich, organic looking fabrics and hand-crafted, folk-inspired pieces from around the globe!
This fashion trend is also labeled “boho chic”, “bohemian”, or “tribal chic” by fashionistas. Bohemian is a word for gypsy, signifying an exotic or wild origin.
So why is this trend catching on? I am of the personal belief that we live in a world that is more global in nature. With the internet and other technological advances of recent times and the ease with which we travel, many are becoming aware of the beauty that lies in cultural diversity.

Generation Y is the most racially diverse population in the nation’s history. “We’re seeing more of a desire for the exotic, left-of-center beauty that transcends race or class,” said Amy Barnett, People magazine’s managing editor. It “represents the new reality of America, which includes considerable mixing,” she added. “It is changing the face of American beauty.”
Dare to be bold! Dare to be different! Find ways of incorporating this trend into your style!

P.S: Global Fashionista is a great place to start shopping for ethnic-chic pieces and once and for all begin incorporating the ethnic-chic trend into your wardrobe this season! Check out our horn bracelets and our cana flecha handbags!

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Concept of Global Fashionista

Fri, August 20, 2010 No Comments by admin

The concept behind Global Fashionista really began during my law school years. I love to travel and shop of course! So I thought why not showcase the items I love from around the world. When I travel, I always try and scope out the local art and fashion. It is interesting to see how many wonderful things you can find. I truly have a special place in my heart for those pieces which remind me of the country I visited, particularly their culture. I truly hope my customers will enjoy and appreciate these pieces as much as I do.

My initial trip in preparation for the launch of Global Fashionista was to Colombia. I am Colombian and it made sense to head there since I already have so many roots there and contact with the artisans. The pieces I have brought from Colombia are inspired by the traditions of the Colombian people. Colombians love color and beauty. In particular when I think of Colombian accessories I can’t help but think of the mochila. The mochila is a traditional woven bag traditional to the indigenous women on Colombia. Mochilas are made by hand and can take up to a month to make! They come in a wide variety of colors and textiles depending on the tribe which is making them. The pattern of the mochila has both spiritual and cosmological significance. It is both a personal expression by the artist and a record of events. Each bag has a unique design and color scheme, which can be attributed to individual members of the community. I love all my mochilas and use them for a wide variety of events, from informal to a bit more formal (mochila with leather). I even use a large mochila as a beach bag.

Recently, the mochila has become something of a cult item, toted around town by fashion editors and It girls, and the subject of chatter on style blogs. “It seems to be the iconic tribal bag,” said Anne Slowey, the fashion news director of Elle, who has picked up a few on her travels. “The perfect mix of practical, exotic and chic.”  For the complete article in the NYT click here.

Much of the craze can be traced to November when the Vogue editor Lauren Santo Domingo organized the Mochila Project. For it, 40 designers, from Alexander Wang to Oscar de la Renta were each given a traditional bag and asked to rework it in their own style. The extraordinary results — the Calvin Klein was trimmed in snakeskin; the J. Mendel, in fur — were then auctioned off at a charity event in Miami that left those nowhere near South Florida somewhat envious. Fortunately, at least one label produced its design: Proenza Schouler will release medium, large and clutch versions of its PS1 bag, fashioned from mochilas, as part of its prefall collection. For the complete article in Vogue click here.

I have posted several photos of my trip! Take a look.

I am very proud of our Colombian Collection which includes a variety of pieces handmade from various natural materials such as bone, seed, palm (cana flecha), leather and horn.  We are currently awaiting the arrival of several more pieces so keep checking back.

P.S: To all you global fashionistas – Shop from our Colombian Collection and who knows, maybe it will inspire you to go to Colombia yourself!

xoxo
Judy
Judy@global-fashionista.com