An Ode to Nature ~ Clo Intimo

By ELLEN LEWIS

Considering the fact that tourists travel to Mexico for one week vacations and have the time of their life, I feel somewhat remiss for even admitting that every time I return here, I go through a transition that usually takes at least 2 weeks.  New York to Cabo San Lucas: it’s like trying to stop a bouncing ball before it rolls away. Finding equilibrium takes time. Assuredly, there is a shift as soon as I disembark. Nature begins to take over: sun, sand, sky and water inform this culture. The people are warm, generous and nurturing. This is a familial lifestyle; colorful and loving and inherently Latin.

This process, which is still evolving has got me thinking about the Clo Intimo Spring 2019 collection. The brand, founded by Claudia Ochoa in 2003, is inspired by her South American roots. Each season I make sure I learn what story drives her creative juices, because it is always artful, romantic and sensual in its origins. This season Claudia’s inspiration resides in the goddess of fertility ensconced deep in the Amazon, forging life from the mountains and rivers. She honors life’s creative energy and as a result, the feminine mystique.

I’ve been following the brand for 10 years, ever since I discovered the evergreen Fortuna chemise. But this story of fertility resonates with me as we struggle to clarify the impact of climate change and the importance of sustainability on our environment. Clo’s print collections channeling water, leaf and floral motifs in muted earthen tones are an ode to this tale. Soft, tactile fabrics, delicate embroideries, detailed construction for ease of fit (S-L) and a semi-precious stone sewn subtly on each piece are combined into a broad spectrum of simple shapes for which Clo is renowned. Delivering throughout the season they are a visual manifestation of balance and harmony with nature.

“Roots Are Not In A Landscape Or A Country, Or A People, They Are Inside You” ~Isabel Allende