we've known this gal since we were younger, all growing up in the same hometown. it's no surprise she has recently launched an ah-mazing handbag and accessory line (all made in her native colombia) that any girl in the fashion know will likely covet.
spend two minutes with her right now and you know this is only the beginning of her design career... she has a lot going on right now, but you can tell there is so much more to come for this newly launched line, mapa collective. each handbag is made of exotic skins, natural leathers, and textiles. each piece is different from the next... and for a limited time you can get 15% off any online order with code STYSLOVE ;) (don't miss out on this)... without further ado, meet maria-paula herrera, the designer behind these swoon worthy designs...
get to know maria-paula herrera of MAPA collective...
chicago is... a beautiful city full of great people, family, and friends that really make it always feel like home, no matter how long i'm away!
colombia is... the friendliest place on earth! the country is full of passion, music, and bright colors, and the optimism of people is energizing.
my beauty secret is... moroccan oil. and i have a pretty extensive supply of all sorts of body and faceoils from my travels to stay relaxed and moisturized. my husband calls it my potion collection!
beauty routine... i try to start all mornings with hot water + lemon, which boosts your immune system and helps kick-start digestion. i don't leave the house without a layer of moisturizer with SPF and mascara. i recently started to using marcelle bb creme and i'm obsessed-- it gives the best natural glow. i love my clarisonic mia and use it daily-- if you don't have one you should probably buy one now!
if you could design a bag for any celebrity who would it be... penelope cruz. she has the ability to seamlessly, and beautifully, transition from a natural chic day look to a glam and glossy evening look, just like mapa collection. plus, i wouldn't mind designing some man croc for her main squeeze, javier!
my style icon is... i don't have one specific icon because i like to draw inspiration from many different places, though i do love kate moss's effortless look.
when traveling to colombia i always pack... layers! one of the most beautiful aspects of colombia is its variety of landscapes and climates, from hot and humid caribbean temps, like in cartagena, to cooler mountainous regions, such as bogota
i can't live without... yoga is my exilir! my practice is what keeps me feeling my best both mentally and physically. even 30 minutes on the mat leave me happier and energized. plus, i can still practice while i'm traveling!
what is in your purse? i have chapstick, colored pens, and haribo gummies. and, of course, a mapa collective julian zipper wallet and croc card holder!
love is... everlasting friendship.
on a saturday night you can find me... either checking out a new restaurant with my hubby, from a hole-in-the-wall joint to a trendy "in" spot, or on the couch fueling my obsession with olivia benson with an svu marathon.
what three words describe mapa collective... timeless, luxurious, unique
what is the best advice you have ever received? growing up my parents always told my brothers and i, "el no lo tienes asegurado"... which essentially means you'll never know until you give it a try. that always comes to mind when i'm making decisions and helps me take risks. #stys
xx,
m-ph
(pictures via m-ph)
Love her collection!! SO proud of you Paula xo, Lo
ReplyDelete