In Medellín’s local fashion ecosystem, there’s no competing with fast fashion. Instead, Colombian brands are searching for new paths forward.
Teaming up with local academic institutions and ProColombia, the Chamber of Commerce offers educational programs focused on business administration, innovation, and the implementation of new technologies, the Bogota Post reports.
Locally-made products—handmade leather shoes, jungle-print swimwear, minimalist jewelry, strappy sandals, button-downs in geometric prints are staples along Via Primavera in Medellín’s fashion district.
However, and many of the local brands for sale today may quickly and quietly disappear, replaced by products produced overseas at staggering volumes and low labor costs.
The increase in imported garments has sent shock waves through Medellín’s fashion industry, a historic epicenter of Colombia’s fashion world.
Article originally appeared on Today Colombia and is republished here with permission.
