Unveiling the Soul of Sustainable Fashion
An In-Depth Interview with Ana Tafur, founder and designer of SAKE
In the ever-evolving world of fashion, the quest for sustainability often seems overshadowed by mass production and fleeting trends. However, there are visionary brands like SAKE that remind us of the deep connections between fashion, nature, and ancient craftsmanship. Recently, I had the privilege of interviewing Ana Tafur, the passionate founder of SAKE, who shared her remarkable journey and the ethos that drives her brand. Our conversation shed light on her dedication to sustainable fashion, her innovative use of ancestral biotechnology, and her impactful community projects in Peru.
The Genesis of SAKE
Ana's journey into the world of fashion began long before the inception of SAKE. Her fascination with indigenous communities and their connection to nature sparked during her school thesis on the Kogis, an indigenous ethnic group in Colombia. This deep dive into their spiritual and artisanal world planted the seed for what would eventually become SAKE. The brand stands for "Fashion poetry between nature and ancient human craft," embodying a philosophy that marries nature's beauty with traditional craftsmanship.
One of the primary challenges SAKE faces is sourcing materials that meet their high sustainability standards. Ana is committed to understanding every step of the value chain, ensuring that each material used is environmentally friendly and ethically sourced. From leather tanned with the Peruvian tara seed to alpaca wool and natural dyes, each component reflects a dedication to sustainability.
The Journey to Sustainability
Before founding Sake, Ana's journey in fashion took her from Colombia to Madrid and then finally to China, where she gained invaluable experience in the fashion industry. Despite having a "dream job" in production, her environmentalist heart led her to question the industry's impact on nature. This inner conflict pushed her to seek a path where fashion could coexist with sustainability.
Ana's approach involves meticulous research and the incorporation of ancestral biotechnology. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and improving traditional techniques, making them more efficient and scalable without losing their essence. For instance, she developed a method to tan leather using the tara seed, an alternative to conventional tanning processes.
Ana's innovative spirit is also evident in her exploration of innovative sustainable technologies and materials. One such material is shiringa, a bio-leather derived from the rubber tree. This unique material has become a cornerstone of SAKE's collections, demonstrating the brand's commitment to environmental responsibility.
SAKE's commitment extends beyond environmental sustainability to socio-economic development in Peru. By working closely with local communities, SAKE supports traditional craftsmanship and promotes economic growth. Ana's projects have included building organic greenhouses, providing nutrition workshops, and setting up libraries for children. These initiatives not only enhance the quality of life in these communities but also preserve and celebrate their cultural heritage.
Successes and Future Directions
Since its inception, SAKE has achieved significant milestones, including multiple invitations to Milan Fashion Week. These opportunities have allowed the brand to showcase its innovative designs and practices on an international stage. Ana's dedication to creating a fashion brand that respects nature and supports local communities has earned SAKE a reputation as a leader in sustainable fashion.
Ana envisions a future where SAKE continues to innovate and expand its impact. The Amaskin project, for example, aims to develop biomaterials and promote sustainable practices in the Amazon region. This project exemplifies SAKE's commitment to environmental stewardship and community development.
Conclusion
Ana's advice to those looking to be more conscious in their fashion consumption is simple and direct: "Understand the impact of your choices. Look for brands that are transparent about their processes and are genuinely committed to sustainability. Quality over quantity is key."
Meet Ana Tafur
Ana Tafur spent seven years as a production line manager in Shanghai before returning to Latin America to explore Indigenous sewing techniques.
In 2013, she founded Sake, a sustainable and ethical fashion brand in Peru, working with local communities and using traditional methods such as natural dyeing. Tafur is part of a Latin American designer movement championing traditional production methods and local materials, focusing on sustainability and supply chain traceability.
