“Parisians have enough chic, I wanted to bring fun, happiness and kitsch-ness,” said Esteban Cortazar of his colorful Colombian-inspired pop up at concept store Colette, part of 2017’s France-Colombia Year celebrations.
Officially launched in Bogota back in December, the Year aims to strengthen the already significant bilateral relationship between the two countries, and following six months of cultural and artistic activities in Colombia, the focus has now shifted to France. “As soon as I heard [about France-Colombia Year], I felt it was my duty to celebrate my country and where I come from,” said the designer. And so in collaboration with Sarah Andelman, Colette’s creative director and purchasing manager, he put together the tiendita-themed pop-up, which showcases all things Colombian.
The young designer invited local artists and creatives to craft brightly colored clothes, accessories and other artisanal objects for the event, to help draw attention to the wealth of talent in Colombia. Expect to find everything from clothes and furniture to skateboards, books, and candy.
Nancy Gonzalez for Esteban Cortazar x Colette
Ramon Laserna for Esteban Cortazar x Colette
Handbags from Nancy Gonzalez, jewelry by Paula Mendoza, and Ramon Laserna’s woven chairs are among the carefully curated pieces, as well as Colombian-themed books, including a limited edition of Botero, which recounts the country’s artistic culture and clothes. Cortazar himself chose the event to unveil pieces from his first sportswear collection.
Esteban Cortazar pictured at the pop-up with Colombian reggaeton singer J Balvin.
Also contributing to the event is Colombian reggaeton singer J Balvin, who co-designed a super bright hoodie. “It's fun. It's bright. It's colorful. It's happy," he said in an interview with GQ’s Matt Sera, mirroring the theme of the event which is to celebrate the positives of Colombian culture.
The Colombian-themed Water Bar
Colette’s Water Bar has also been transformed into a Colombian-style eatery to coincide with the 12-day curation. Sample a taste of Latin cuisine courtesy of Colombian chef Carlos Peñarredonda, while admiring local street art recreated by collective Populardelujo.
The Esteban Cortazar x Colette pop-up runs until 22nd July.