Allison Gómez

The brand introduces the Zihita collection – a curated selection of high-end leather items inspired by the ‘Old World’ of pre-Columbian cultures. This five-piece collection delves into the spiritual and symbolic significance of amphibians, particularly frogs, within the indigenous Chibcha / Muisca communities. It offers a modern, creative reinterpretation of these cultural symbols into wearable art. Thoughtfully selected colours, elegant silhouettes, and gold-moulded accents bring to life the stories and treasures of Colombia, including La Leyenda De El Dorado. With a deep respect for leather craftsmanship and ancestral history, each piece is handcrafted, using specialised camouflaging techniques at every stage to preserve both the craft and its historical value. Midi Saldana: The Midi Saldana is the first creation in the Zihita Collection, embodying a thoughtful fusion of contrasting organic shapes inspired by Pre-Columbian artefacts and mythical tales. The designer reinterprets traditional leather working techniques by incorporating innovative hidden methods in each detail, such as the gusset's ability to contract and expand in a drawstring-like form. This is complemented by the softness of the inner material, which contrasts with the firmer outer frame that encases it. The construction and reinforcements are meticulously chosen to allow for flexibility in shape and curvature, ensuring the piece naturally fits against the user’s arms and body. This immersive design enhances the user's experience, offering the pleasure of using a finely crafted, functional work of art.   Zihita: The Zihita Bag visually embodies the essence of the collection, symbolising the Zihita (frog) through its carefully chosen colours and the contrast in construction. It features a soft, accentuated, fitted drawstring closure compartment for your precious items, paired with a firmer outer frame. These contrasts are intentional, offering a soothing and comforting experience for the wearer, engaging the senses with the tactile sensation of the smooth leather and the subtle scent that emanates, revealing its nature. 

Like the Midi Saldana, the Zihita Bag boasts a unique, moulded silhouette, tailored specifically to its form. Its continuous, flowing curvature mimics the shape of a frog, with an olive calfskin interior lining and a cushioned lime nappa drawstring interior. Mini Pod: The Family of Pods originated from an exploration of silhouettes inspired by historical Chibcha and Muisca research. What began as an abstract sketch evolved into a handmade miniature clay sculpture, developed through a process aimed at recreating the simple casting techniques used by indigenous people to form their imaginative creations. From this exploration, the Zihita (frog) foot took shape and was expanded into larger versions, each retaining its unique mark crafted by the artisans.

Included in the Trio Pod set, the Mini Pod is a compact piece designed to function as a coin and card purse, classified as an SLG (Small Leather Good). It serves as a playful accessory that can be worn on a chain across the body, hooked onto a belt, or wrapped around other bags for an added pop of colour. It pairs perfectly with both the Midi and Large Pods. Midi Pod: The Midi Pod is the centre piece of the Trio set. It performs as a neutraliser in the Pods family with variety in tonal green shades anchoring to the concept, whilst keeping it playful and harmonious alongside the Mini and Large Pods. 

The pods sustain a common detail to the Midi Saldana Bag, but executed in reverse. This is represented by the reverse curve zip dip closure- an unexpected detail. The Midi Pod also hones in on the authenticity of the Zihita bag through colour choices, which unifies the collection pieces, whilst maintaining a separate body entity. 

The Pods explore a fun way for how to accessorise and combine SLGs, coexisting independently or a family set.  Large Pod: The Large Pod is a scaled-up version of the Mini, featuring expanded gussets in a horseshoe construction. It presents a playful, surprising element for both the user and the viewer, inviting exploration of its interior and intricate details. With a soft outer texture and the irregular, enlarged moulded motif of the Zihita foot, it shares similarities with the Midi and Mini Pods, yet its curvature and fluidity remain unique. Each piece is independently hand-cast, ensuring no two are exactly alike. The silhouette of each Pod serves as the focal point, with the design enveloping it in a fluid, harmonious form.