How Sololi is Celebrating Mexican Artisanship with Ethical Fashion Accessories
PARTNER BRAND SPOTLIGHT
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, WOC has chosen to amplify the incredible products and services of its partner brands, who have so generously allowed WOC members exclusive discounts. WOC has carefully curated its partners, who with the exception of publications, are all people or woman of color-owned businesses.
When we support economies of color, we are helping the philanthropic cycle thrive. Strong business = the possibility for raising and giving more funds to the causes that deserve them.
Isabel Amigon, Founder, SOLOLI
SOLOLI is a family-owned, artisanal fashion accessories brand devoted to supporting local Mexican artisans with a social promise to reduce waste, fair wages and foster a safe and ethical work environment outside of mass production.
SOLOLI is founded by Isabel Amigon, who graciously sat down with us to tell its story and provide her business insights for budding Latina entrepreneurs.
Here’s what she had to say about SOLOLI:
WOC: What inspired you to start SOLOLI?
SOLOLI
Isabel: So many things, from the colors to the way our ancestors have been making things, to a child that stole our heart at a town fair; we knew that we wanted to build a company that not only puts food on our table but that does the same for other families and inspires others as well.
“I don’t think we would have ever thought that something that started in a local farmers market run from our apartment can actually give a little back; it’s just an amazing feeling to be able to share with the world something I’m so passionate about. ”
WOC: Your product range is stunning; is there a SOLOLI piece that you feel most represents you, Isabel? Or just something in the store you're really loving right now?
Isabel: Thank you so much. Oh my goodness, I love everything! I guess if I had to pick it will have to be our La New York Collection that I had the pleasure of designing with the wixarika community in Mexico, and our 100% recycled plastic totes that are handwoven by prisoners in local jails of Oaxaca. They craft each bag as a way to support their families by earning a fair wage for their work.
WOC: What has been the most rewarding part of running SOLOLI?
Isabel: So many! Let’s see. I think meeting and learning from so many different people from all walks of life being able to help not just our family and our team but also give back a little more. I don’t think we would have ever thought that something that started in a local farmers market run from our apartment can actually give a little back; it’s just an amazing feeling to be able to share with the world something I’m so passionate about.
WOC: Do you have any advice or words of inspiration for other Latina and women of color entrepreneurs?
Isabel: Do your research- I mean really do your research. Make sure that you love it with all your heart. If you can’t get it out of your head you might be in the right track. Make sure that what you’re trying to build has a purpose besides making money; anyone can make money but not everyone can build something that they love and are proud to say “that’s my company,” where we care for every single person that makes us who we are. It’s all about love and dedication.
