Juan Carlos Gordillo is a Guatemalan fashion designer for whom creativity and an honest aesthetic are the key elements he considers when he is imagining his eclectic designs. An introspective nature, Juan Carlos always looks both inside and outside when designing a garment. His career has been an uphill climb: it wasn’t easy to become an established designer, but his creations, for which he uses both recycled fabrics and traditional Guatemalan textiles, mixed with fine natural and synthetic fabrics, got him to places such as Spain, Germany, Austria and Mexico, where he was able to showcase his collections. In 2009, Juan Carlos was elected to officially represent Guatemala in the First World Forum of Creativity, which was organized by UNESCO in Monza, Italy.
Juan Carlos designs for women who rely on their self-confidence to feel powerful and for whom individuality is key.
In this Attire Club interview, Juan Carlos discusses his career, his muses and the Guatemalan fashion scene.
Read the interview below:
How did you become a fashion designer? Was fashion your interest from an early age?
I always liked beautiful things. I admired the beauty of nature, the beauty of women and I loved textile arts. I always liked watching my father construct a pair of pants. When I began to read fashion magazines it became clear to me that I wanted to be a designer. I discovered that with fabric one can create beautiful things and at the same time express ideas, emotions and art – I discovered a form of expression that came more easily to me than expression through words.
What was the greatest challenge you had to overcome to become a fashion designer and launch your brand?
Life is full of challenges every day and I have had my fair share. For example, sharing my wish to become a fashion designer with my family was difficult for me because I come from a very conservative country where men are expected to find traditionally masculine professions and achieve material and economic success. However, I learned that you can measure success in other ways that are sometimes more difficult to explain because they are less tangible. A second challenge has been finding opportunities to show my work in a professional venue. I had to wait a long time and sometimes I doubted my ability to continue in fashion but I persevered and have found success. The next challenge will be to return to Vienna and present my work in another fashion event and to cement my name in the fashion market. Every day we have challenges, but joy is to be found in the satisfaction of overcoming them.
How is the fashion scene in Guatemala?
Fashion in Guatemala is very much influenced by international trends. Unfortunately, it does not have its own integrity or a strong community. Those who run the industry are very closed off and only see critique as negative criticism. Hence there is little progress or innovation.
The fashion scene in Guatemala is no different than the rest of the political system. It is run by a small elite who do not allow new voices or influences to enter. It is a complex situation and difficult to explain but in reality has a negative effect on culture, art, sports, education health and obviously fashion, which is even less of a priority within the system.
How does it feel to be a fashion designer in Guatemala?
In my case I feel misunderstood, but I have overcome that and have learned not to focus on recognition from my own country because I realize I will not be accepted. However, with hard work I am proud to say I have become one of the few Guatemalan designers who has showed my work outside of the country. However, I am happy to be able to show a positive side of my country and also I feel I have the social responsibility to offer at least some work to local artisans, although I am very conscious of my limitations. But I never say it is impossible to change. With clear goals it is possible to create real fashion in Guatemala and export it.
How would you describe your style as a designer and what elements of design define your creations?
My style is not commercial. I self identify as an eclectic designer, including elements of art and daily life but with an emphasis on a fusion of recycled fabric and detailed artisanal work. I want to show that fashion is not just to use or wear beautiful clothes; fashion generates fountains of work and if the work is under fair conditions, all the better. Additionally, with my fashion I want to raise consciousness about the environment and if my creations offer even a little conscience to society, my work has a purpose.
Does the fashion and attitude of one person influence the emotions of others? And, if so, how?
Of course it does because it is human nature to follow trends. Very few people dare to form their own character free from external influences. And emotions are clearly attached to this influence – the moment you interact with a positive person, your mind encompasses a little more positivity.
Who or what is your muse and inspiration?
I have many fountains of inspirations: My country, people, brave women who have challenged society, nature… there are so many that I cannot label one specifically.
What advice would you give someone who wants to become a designer or begin a fashion-related company?
One:Â Believe in your ideas.
Two: Listen, look, and accept professional opinions.
Three:Â Work hard.
Four: Know that it is a beautiful world, but it is sometimes difficult to reach such a goal. Know this, but never give up.
Thank you!
Fraquoh and Franchomme
See more of Juan Carlos’ designs on his official website!
P.S. We want to hear from you! What do you make of Juan Carlos’ designs? What do you think of his world views? Share your feedback, questions or thoughts in the comments below! For more articles on style, fashion tips and cultural insights, you can subscribe to Attire Club via e-mail or follow us on Facebook or Twitter!
4 replies on “In His Own Words: Designer Juan Carlos Gordillo”
Great story – I would wear clothes by this designer, for sure! Kudos to the bloggers by giving him a voice and supporting him in his difficult journey!
We really like Juan Carlos’ clothes too, especially the white-blue ones! Thank you for your input!
These outfits are definitely signature!!
We agree, they definitely express the designer’s vision!