Xiomara Larenas: won the Young Creators of the World contest

In a dazzling night for Peruvian fashion, Arequipa-based designer Xiomara Larenas claimed the top spot in the sixteenth edition of the "Young Creators of the World" contest. 

Her captivating collection, titled "Inexhaustible Painting," captured the essence of her childhood and family stories through a blend of alpaca and cotton.

Celebrating Identity and Tradition

Organized by the Commission for The Commission for the Promotion of Peru for Export and Tourism (PROMPERU), the contest aims to highlight design as a highly valued and distinctive element of the Peruvian fashion industry. 

This year, the contest's theme, "Harmony with the World," sought to blend ancient culture with current fashion trends. Designers showcased how creativity, innovation, and sustainable design can transform the fashion industry into a positive force, both socially and environmentally.

Xiomara Larenas, with her collection inspired by childhood memories and family, resonated with the audience and the jury. Her alpaca and cotton designs were inspired by stories from her grandparents, her mother's doll-making, the hugs of her siblings, and her father's return home for tea. 

Her collection paid homage to nostalgia and family connections, demonstrating how fashion can be a profound artistic expression.

Global Recognition

The international jury, consisting of fashion industry experts like Fernanda Romagnoli from FARFETCH (Brazil), Sadiq Desh from Mytheresa Men (Germany), Barbara Panciroli from Stella McCartney (Italy), Federica Diana from Versace (Italy), and Alejandro Salazar from Michell and Cía (Peru), were impressed with Xiomara Larenas' collection.

As a reward, Larenas won a four-week internship at the prestigious ESMOD design school in Paris, an international flight provided by Michell and Cía, and a guided tour of Michell and Cía's production facilities in Arequipa. Furthermore, Jockey Plaza will provide accommodation and living expenses for a month in Paris during the internship.

The contest also highlighted the importance of sustainability in fashion. Karen Huamán, a designer from Junín, received the "Happiness Given Returns" award from Jockey Plaza for her efforts in promoting planetary sustainability.

In the context of Peru Moda Deco and with the support of Michell and Cía and Jockey Plaza, the "Young Creators of the World" contest continues to inspire designers nationally and internationally to blend tradition and innovation, creating fashion that reflects the identity and values of Peru.

Thumbnail credits: William Rios Ramos / PROMPERÚ