Johanna Ortiz

Biography

Textiles and design have been my greatest passions since childhood. I studied fashion design at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, lived in Miami for a while, and worked at MTV Latino before returning to my hometown of Cali, Colombia. There, I started a resort brand that taught me a great deal and led me to create my eponymous brand, Johanna Ortiz. We have grown dress by dress and person by person, always with the purpose of creating fashion with a positive social impact in Cali, Colombia.

When was the firm founded? How has your vision of design evolved from when you started until now?

This year we're celebrating our 20th anniversary! It was founded in 2003. My vision has expanded considerably, and I'm fortunate to have a fantastic team. We now have categories including Ready-to-Wear, Swimwear and Resortwear, accessories, and homewear. I love drawing inspiration from the biodiversity that surrounds me, my Latin roots, and my passion for discovering new cultures, fusing them with a modern, feminine, and global perspective.

How important are craftsmanship and your origins in your creations?

Craftsmanship and my South American roots are fundamental to everything we do. Colombia is rich in artisanal traditions, and working with local artisans allows me to preserve these skills and celebrate a unique craft. The craftsmanship adds a human and authentic touch to our pieces. For each collection, we collaborate with a community in Colombia.

What do you want to convey with your clothes? How do you think women feel wearing them?

I like to convey confidence, empowerment, and joy. Johanna Ortiz designs to celebrate the femininity and individuality of every woman, allowing them to express their style and who they are in a very unique and authentic way.

“I love to be inspired by the biodiversity that surrounds me, my Latin roots, the love of discovering new cultures, merging these with a modern, feminine and global vision.”

Local and artisanal production is part of your essence. What is El Semillero and how did the idea come about?

The Johanna Ortiz School is an initiative that fills me with pride. It's a six-month course where we teach sewing skills to people in vulnerable situations, thereby improving their quality of life. We provide them with a monthly stipend, food, psychosocial support, transportation, and job opportunities upon graduation. To date, we have 116 beneficiaries, 75% of whom have joined Johanna Ortiz's atelier.

In recent years, there has been a boom in Latin culture globally, and as a Colombian designer, you have become an exponent of Latin American fashion internationally. How far would you like to go?

The rise of Latin culture globally is incredibly exciting, and I feel honored to represent my country and region in the fashion industry. I aspire to continue expanding the brand internationally, reaching more markets and sharing the beauty and richness of our roots.

“I aspire to continue expanding the brand internationally, reaching more markets and sharing the beauty and richness of our roots.”

Relationship with beauty:

What is beauty to you and how do you experience it in your daily routine?

It's an expression of authenticity and confidence. In my daily life, I take care of my skin with simple routines, in the morning and before going to bed.

What or who inspires you in your day-to-day life?

My mom, my children, my family, and the JO team are my daily source of inspiration.

Who are your beauty icons?

My beauty icons are authentic and confident women. I admire women who embrace their individuality and unique beauty.

Beauty Questionnaire:

What is your skincare routine?

I like to keep my skin healthy and natural. My routine includes daily cleansing, moisturizing products, and I always wear sunscreen.

For me, nutrition is also super important for overall well-being. If I do this right, my skin notices and thanks me!

Is there anything left for you to learn or try in the beauty world?

I believe there's always something to learn. I'm open to trying and discovering new products and techniques that can improve my daily routine.

What are your favorite beauty treatments? (From Beldon Beauty)

I think therapeutic massages when I come back from Paris Fashion Week are the best gift I can give myself.