Hi Fernando, it is such a pleasure to meet you, I am very jealous that you are in Paris for our interview…Congrats on Cachua, so tell me

What inspired you to develop Cachua?

During the first lockdown in 2020, not being able to be creative was just so restrictive & I’d always had a passion for fashion and I believe in their being a perfect timing, so I went for it…have to believe.

What’s behind the name?

It literally means ‘round dance’ or ‘circle dance’ in old Andean language and I adopted this to represent the circular nature of the brand.

Much of the craftsmanship is from native Columbia & Peru, was this a key driver for you and your brand to bring a little bit of home to your work?

Yes, all the jewellery is produced in Columbia & it is our aim to make all the accessories in Peru and to use the Alpaca wool/textiles/blends that can be used both in winter and summer.

Eco sustainability is a big part of Cachua, is this as a result of your links with Dame Vivienne Westwood?

Yes, seeing how proactive she is was vey inspiring & I grew up by the Pacific Ocean and it was so dirty you couldn’t even swim in it and this made a huge impact on me so I knew my brand had to be responsible.

Do you feel a responsibility to create eco fashion given the industry is one of the biggest polluters on the planet.

Yes, absolutely. As the second biggest polluter (fashion), even though I am new to the industry, it’s too important not to keep things as close to nature as you can, e.g. By using Alpaca dyes you use less water and water consumption is a huge issue within the industry.

Who is the collection aimed at?

I see it as genderless and for those who love movement, art and understand and embody the principles of the brand.

Who would be your dream Cachua Muse or muses?

Thandie Newton as she is elegant and yet strong and a mother. And Michael Fassbender as he has a strong presence and yet is elegant.

What is your favourite piece from your collection?

I don’t have just one…I love the Torino, The Peacock and the Miss T.

Thank you so much Fernando.