Continuing to celebrate the anniversary of its eponymous label 15, Benito Santos pays homage to the Mexican charrería, or rodeo. “In my career, I’ve arrived at an inward journey, towards my roots and the folklore I grew up with,” he said.
The designer is generous, not only does Alteñita consist of more than 100 pieces, the collection is inspired by the Alteñitas Escaramuzas of Guadalajara – his hometown – but there are His attention to detail in garment tailoring and embroidery.
The Lienzo Zermeño in Guadalajara is a slightly unusual venue, although it fits perfectly with the backdrop of the festivities. To the accompaniment of tequila and mariachi, a black charro suit with a fringed poncho and embroidered sequins opened the show. It was followed by bow ties, silhouettes with oversized sleeves, feather-trimmed details and tailored waistbands. The last detail is the hallmark of Santos DNA.
Texture blending. He used denim, tulle and satin for rose-embellished suits in patterns of his own creation—Gualalajara is the city of roses. “It all started with illustration. It was one of my biggest passions and the beginning of my career. From there we developed the textile designs and fabric choices and the entire collection was produced in my studio,” says the designer.
Transparencies and opera gloves add a touch of sexiness and modernity to an outfit that winks at the most traditional garments in a Mexican wardrobe. Accessories are equally traditional, in the form of chiseled leather belts, earrings and necklaces inspired by charro buckles. The show concluded with the music of Mariachi and singer-songwriter Natalia Jiménez.
