With meticulous attention to detail and committed to eco-consciousness, Carlota has successfully merged fashion and sustainability to create a brand that resonates with individuals seeking both style and ethical consumption. Her journey started with her friend Sol, who both share a deep passion for fashion. This led them to implement original designs, innovative and sustainable processes throughout her brand's value chain.
How and when was the brand born?
The brand emerged very naturally; we knew we wanted to create a fashion-related project together. We have been spending summers in the same town since we were little, so the brand reflects the excitement of summers by the sea and the feeling of a sunny siesta.
What is the brand's philosophy?
It's important for us to create a high-quality product while respecting principles that should be fundamental: people, craftsmanship, materials, and the planet.
What is it like to work with a friend like Sol Ferrandiz? What role does each of you have?
Working together is a lot of fun. Our favorite part is the initial process; we like to take a trip where we can find inspiration and shape our ideas. Last year, we were in Fuerteventura creating the summer 2022 collection, and this year, we were in Sri Lanka. We are already thinking about the next destination for the 2024 collection.
What role does sustainability play in the brand?
Most of Siestalsol's products are made in our small workshop in Lorca, Murcia. We opt for small production runs to avoid mass production and offer a special and unique product. Nevertheless, our intention is to continue improving through our packaging, fabrics, and production methods.
Can you tell us about any initial challenges you encountered that you didn't expect?
Perhaps our biggest challenge was launching the brand. We wanted to choose every detail as if it were the campaign of our lives, and financially, it was challenging because we didn't know where to cut costs.
What do you do on a Sunday afternoon? I always spend Sundays with my family, visiting my grandmother, enjoying a good rice dish, and playing Rummikub.
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be? Red bell pepper or cucumber, haha.
Drink that makes you happiest? Sparkling blackcurrant juice.
The first thing you do when you wake up in the morning? Play music, wash my face, and brush my teeth.
Favorite daily skincare routine? Thoroughly washing my face, using toner, serum, eye cream, daily moisturizer with SPF, and lip balm (I don't usually wear makeup in my day-to-day life).
Favorite recent trip you've taken? Sri Lanka. I went earlier this year, and originally planned for a 3-week trip, but ended up staying for 2 months! It was my third time there, but I love it more each time. I'll probably go back this winter.
Favorite city? I love Madrid, but I see myself living near the sea in the future. I'm fascinated by the French Basque Country, places like San Juan de Luz, Guéthary, Biarritz... that whole area.
Favorite IG account? @louisemaurisset.
Favorite HAAN product? The Sunset Fleur Hand Sanitizer. I always carry it in my bag, and I love its scent.
