My Friend Is an Expert in Latin American Fashion—8 Brands She's Loving RN

Instagram has its perks. One of them is the social communities you quickly become a part of—through your industry or interests—and the friendships that are created through that. Journalist and creative consultant Kelly Talamas is one of the coolest and most stylish friends I've made on social media. I honestly can't pinpoint how we first interacted on Instagram, but we connected and clicked. Kelly and I both work in the fashion-editorial space, we were both first-time moms at the time, we're both of Latin descent (her mom is from Cuba, and my mom is from Paraguay), and we both have a true pride and passion for Latin American culture, fashion, and people.

In fact, Kelly is my go-to person when it comes to all things Latin American fashion. At just 28, Kelly became the editor in chief of Vogue Mexico and Latin America, and through the role, she became a pioneer in showcasing Latin America and bringing international attention to its creative talent. She's called three Latin capitals home—Mexico City, Bogotá, and Panama City—and now consults for a range of clients, including Chanel, Silvia Tcherassi, and Polo Ralph Lauren. Last year, she launched Latinness, a platform that highlights the region's talent and diversity through its creatives.

As you can imagine, Kelly has an impeccable eye for fashion and knows all the coolest Latin brands, people, and places. I'm always stalking her Instagram to see the buzzing brand she's wearing or the stylish designer she's having coffee with on any given day as well as the beautiful landscapes and hot spots she travels to throughout Central and South America—always a source of inspiration!

With Hispanic Heritage Month in full swing, I reached out to Kelly and asked her if she could share some of the Latin fashion brands she's currently excited about. Keep scrolling for her stylish shopping picks from each brand.

Maygel Coronel

"Maygel's collections fuse the sensuality of her Colombian culture with the versatility required for everyday wear. Made in Cartagena, her pieces have that ability to go from beach to bar seamlessly and really speak to me when I'm thinking of what to pack when traveling to warm climates."

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Chava Studio

"I'm not sure what I love more— the story behind this brand or the chic collections they put out. Founded by New Yorker Olivia Villanti in Mexico City, it was a pandemic project born out of her Mexican husband's 30-year-old family textile and men's-shirting studio. While the made-to-order pieces have a timeless appeal, there's always a differentiating detail. As a former editor, Villanti has a clear vision for what her customer is craving."

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Éliou

"Maybe it's because they're from Miami like me, but everything Duda Teixeira and Cristina Mantilla create really speaks to my heart. I'm really loving their new clothing line, handmade by Duda's family in Brazil, which means each piece is created in limited quantities, so you're not likely to see them all over Instagram."

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Bolazo Argentina

"I discovered this Argentinean brand a few years ago, and it still manages to bring a smile to my face anytime I come across it. Stylist Victoria Sanchez is the face behind it, and the pieces are a reflection of her effortless cool-girl style."

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De Maria

"This relatively new accessory brand is the brainchild of Brother Vellies graduate Genoveva Pedrero Setzer and her partner Daniela Novelo Iñiguez. Based in New York but made in Mexico, their focus is on sustainability and artisanal craftsmanship, applying traditional techniques to modern design."

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Loraine Holmes

"All the Gen Z Latin girls are going crazy over Chilean designer Loraine Holmes and her statement jeans. At first look, you wouldn't suspect that Loraine is Latin, but her pieces have a hint of that sensuality we're all drawn to."

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Cala de la Cruz

"Born in Cali, Colombia, where it is resort season year-round, this brand is an expert at vacation dressing. They're masters at bold prints, and their silhouettes tend to work for an urban landscape as well."

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Rue Mariscal

"I only recently discovered this brand from Paraguay when I saw it on a friend of mine. The design was fresh, feminine, and modern, but the embroidered detail was so intricate and unique. I knew it had to be made by Latin artisans. Each piece feels like a work of art yet somehow still versatile enough for everyday wear."

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Up next, All the Coolest Items on Our Fashion Editors' Fall Wish Lists