Shopping Guide: Cartagena

February 01, 2019

A visit to Cartagena, a vibrant port on Colombia’s northern coast, is like stepping back in time. Rather than adhering to an itinerary, spend your time wandering around the historic 16th century walled city that’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, browse the local markets and shops, admire the colonial architecture and colorful buildings, and enjoy leisurely meals of fresh seafood over live music at one of the many open-air cafes and bars...

Behind the Label: Arteli

October 30, 2018

"Fashion meets nature" is the mantra behind Colombian label Arteli's handbags, and sustainability lies at its heart. Handmade by female artisans in South America, these bags are handwoven from natural materials and marry craftsmanship with nature. We chatted with Arteli's founder, Juan Camilo Meisel, about his eye-catching designs and the philosophy they represent.  Q: Where did the idea for Arteli come from? A: When I was very young, I always saw my mom making...

Behind the Label: Azulina Home

October 30, 2017

Oversized straw baskets, monochrome striped cushions, textured throws and rugs—what do all these products from Colombian home décor label Azulina Home have in common? They’re all 100% handmade. Launched by Melissa Moriarty in 2013, the label is a celebration of artisanal craftsmanship and age-old traditions. The Cuatros Tetas baskets, for example, can take up to three weeks to make and are handwoven by indigenous Canaan women in the Pacific rainforests...

Globetrotter Guide: 7 Top Shopping Spots

July 31, 2016

We asked 7 of our favorite globetrotters to reveal their secret shopping spots around the world. From San Telmo’s charming streets to posh Parisian boutiques, these are the best places to shop until you drop! Istanbul, Turkey by: Hazal Yilmaz, Blogger, urbanconfessions.com When travel blogger Hazal Yilmaz talks, we listen. When she told us about Naftalin Vintage in the historic neighborhood of Fener, we were thrilled. Naftalin is the eclectic...

My Cartagena

February 17, 2016

I recently married a Colombian man, as a nod to his heritage we held our ceremony in the magical city of Cartagena, Colombia. Cartagena is a UNESCO heritage site, meaning it's architecture is protected and will always stay true to it’s initial structure and style (sometimes dating as far back as the 1500's) because of this, the city retains much of the same feel it had when it was colonized by...

Behind the Label | Mochila Mochila By FREAY

November 03, 2014

Handcrafted of pure sheep?s wool, these eco-chic bags showcase distinctive patterns inspired by the natural beauty of the local mountain ranges of Columbia. We recently caught up with Sandra and asked her to share her experience of working with these incredible artisans.

Handcrafted of pure sheep?s wool, these eco-chic bags showcase distinctive patterns inspired by the natural beauty of the local mountain ranges of Columbia. We recently caught up with Sandra and asked her to share her experience of working with these incredible artisans. Handcrafted of pure sheep?s wool, these eco-chic bags showcase distinctive patterns inspired by the natural beauty of the local mountain ranges of Columbia. We recently caught up with...