Following the success of her latest collection, Acapulco – Waves of Change, launched during London Fashion Week, we had the opportunity to have a brief but meaningful interview with Erika Alvarez.
Erika, a Mexican-born fashion entrepreneur who has lived in London for the past decade, is the founder of her own brands, Koua Mexico and Koua Studio. She is widely recognized as a leader who is helping to reshape the fashion industry.
Her latest collection pays homage to Acapulco, a beach city on the Pacific coast of Mexico, which has faced environmental and social challenges in recent years. Here, we delve into the powerful message behind her collection and the heritage of her brand.
KODD Magazine : Erika, What does this collection mean to you, and what have you enjoyed the most ?
Erika : This collection represents my roots, my heritage, and the changes I’ve sadly witnessed over the years in one of Mexico’s most prestigious beach destinations. While I know I can’t turn back time, I can raise awareness about what’s happening and work on initiatives to inspire real change.
What I’ve enjoyed the most is being able to express my feelings and memories through this collection, and, importantly, having the platform to raise my voice. I’ve also loved the opportunity to connect with new people in the industry and push each other forward.
KM : In a competitive fashion industry, how does Koua Mexico set itself apart?
E : I’m Erika Alvarez—no one else is me, and that’s my unique selling point. I use my own voice, my storytelling, to connect with the audience, weaving my heritage and personal experiences into each collection. My work stands out as I champion women’s equality in all I do.
KM : What do you believe are some of the biggest challenges facing fashion today, particularly regarding sustainability?
E : Leadership. It doesn’t matter how talented you are or how many eco-friendly materials you use if you’re not a good leader. If you don’t take care of your people and collaborators, make them feel valued, and operate in a horizontal structure, then you aren’t practicing true sustainability. Sustainability isn’t just about the environment—it’s also about how you treat people, and that all starts with your team.
KM : What advice would you give to emerging designers who want to start their own label?
E : Never forget your roots when making fashion.
KM : We’ve seen you in Paris during Fashion Week. Paris is a dream city for many designers; what’s your impression?
E : I love Paris! It’s the epicenter of fashion, an inspiration to many designers, including me. Fashion Week in Paris has a unique vibe, and, to be honest, it’s my favorite. I can’t wait to present one of my collections there someday.
Discover pieces designed by this young British brand on Kouamexico.com.
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