Johanna Ortiz on 'Alma' and Building a Latin American Fashion House from Cali

Colombian designer Johanna Ortiz, based in Cali, discusses her Fall/Winter 2026–2027 collection 'Alma' and the evolution of her namesake luxury label. In an interview with Whitewall, Ortiz explains that 'Alma' was inspired by the Garden of Eden as a state of mind, not a literal reference, and explores a woman who feels free and at ease, imagined returning from a party rather than arriving. She emphasizes that her work is rooted in Latin American beauty and craftsmanship, achieved through honesty and close collaboration with local artisans. Ortiz notes that her brand is vertically integrated, producing in Colombia with a team of around 470 people, and includes training programs for women. She discusses expanding beyond resort wear into more structured, seasonal silhouettes, as seen in the Magdalena Spring/Summer 2026–2027 collection, aiming for pieces that last beyond a single season. Ortiz describes femininity as ageless and evolving, inspired by the women around her and the cultural vibrancy of Cali. She highlights the importance of community and purpose in maintaining intimacy at scale, and outlines plans to strengthen the brand's Latin American identity while expanding direct-to-consumer efforts in the U.S. and Europe.