Give us the Tótem Tienda elevator pitch.

Tótem Tienda started as an extension of Tótem Magazine, which I launched in Mexico City to show a different side of fashion—one inclusive of all bodies, genders, and self-expression. The brands we work with are unique, creative, and conscious of sustainability—basically, we love working with those who are thinking about the world in a more meaningful way.

The Five Ws

Who is wearing Tótem Tienda?

Creative people who want to stand out and appreciate the art behind the clothes.

What is Tótem Tienda’s main message?

It’s all about community and uniqueness. Why blend in when you can be yourself?

When did you launch Tótem Tienda?

After moving to the U.S., I opened a showroom in LA where we showcased Latinx and Mexican designers, creating a little ecosystem for them to reach a global audience. Even though we opened right before the pandemic (2020), we made it work via appointment-only, which kept things intimate and safe.

Where are people wearing Tótem Tienda?

Everywhere—on the streets, at parties, in the nightlife.

Why was Tótem Tienda created?

To give new designers a platform and an opportunity to showcase their work.

Can you discuss the relationship between the Tótem Tienda pop-up and your magazine?

Tótem Magazine has always been about uplifting the people, stories, and projects that inspire us. Since we’re a fashion magazine, I wanted to support emerging designers by selling their pieces through the magazine.

The Tótem platform has roots in LA, NYC, and CDMX – can you share more about the decision to represent all three cities in the Tótem brand?

Those are cities I’ve lived in and where I connected with creative talent. NYC has always been the dream though. I love the idea of creating bridges where we can all feed each other’s inspiration.

In what ways do your roots in Mexico City influence Tótem Tienda’s assortment and cultural approach? Do LA or NY have their particular influences on you?

Growing up in Mexico City, we were always influenced by what was happening in the U.S.—TV, music, fashion. But what makes our culture unique is the way we put our spin on things, especially when resources are limited. That forces us to get creative and bring something new to the table. Mexico’s pop culture, combined with our roots, gives Tótem Tienda its own special flair.

Can you expound on the creative dynamic between the Mexican fashion scene and the country’s global diaspora?

Mexico’s unique location and history expose us to so many different cultures. The Asian influence is huge in Mexico, and the U.S. and Europe have always been present too. But what’s amazing is how we’ve begun valuing our own heritage, which is reflected in Mexican fashion today. We’re mixing it all up and making something new and exciting.

What guides your curation of brands at Tótem Tienda? Is there a particular Tótem Tienda aesthetic? If there is, could you describe it?

I’m definitely influenced by global trends, and you can see that in the curation of the brands. Some have been with Tótem from the beginning. I’d say the aesthetic is eclectic but with an eye for creativity, quality, and that special edge.

If you styled a look to represent Tótem Tienda’s current direction, which brands would we see? Are there standout pieces you think of?

Paloma Lira is a key one—she’s constantly reinventing herself, and that’s what makes her a true fashion icon. Ese Chico, a project by photographer Dorian Ulises Macias, also comes to mind—his work highlights Mexican beauty in such a raw, stunning way.

 

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Are there any Mexican brands or designers with Mexican heritage that you are excited about at the moment? What about in the wider world?

Willy Chavarría is absolutely killing it, and we’re all so proud of him. Campillo is another brand—though they have a European influence there’s still a strong Mexican representation in their work. And keep an eye on my brother Rio from The Rio World—he’s insanely talented, and I can’t wait for his next chapter.

As a former designer, would you ever consider introducing a Tótem collection?

I’ve been thinking about that recently. I worked on a capsule collection with Mexican artist José Cespedes, and we’re planning to launch it this summer.

In the last decade, how has the platform changed? Are there certain principles that you hope to uphold as you move forward?

My principles have always been strong. I’m a Taurus, so once I’m set on something, it’s hard to shake me! I’d love to work more with high-fashion brands and create some elevated, fun editorials that bring the Tótem flair to a wider audience. But I’ll always make space for emerging projects and new voices.

Are there plans for Tótem Tienda or Tótem Magazine in the near future that you’d like to share?

Right now, we’re continuing to do pop-ups at 168 Ludlow—shoutout to Assembly New York for their support. We’re also planning to release our third magazine issue this fall, and we’re dropping new interviews and cool stories every month on the website.

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Follow Tótem Tienda on Instagram for information on forthcoming pop-ups.

168 Ludlow St
New York, NY 10002