“ESCAPE TO CANCUN” FASHION SHOOT

By Hillary Latos
Photography by Andrew Werner
Art Director James Murray
Hair by Salons at grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach and Live Aqua Cancun
Makeup by Guillermo Flores for Christian Dior
Styled by Pineda Covalin
Model Elliana Gran from APM Models

As Mexican design is having its moment, the celebrated design duo of Pineda Covalin embodies the creativity and spirit of contemporary Mexican design capturing the essence of the rich cultural heritage interpreted into fashion. After celebrating 20 successful years as one of the leading fashion houses in Mexico, Pineda Covalin is expanding into the world of hospitality with a collaboration of bath amenities with the luxurious Fiesta Americana hotels in Mexico. Here Resident Magazine chats with Ricardo Covalin to learn more about his inspiration and storytelling of Mexican design and culture during our gorgeous photo shoot at the Grand Fiesta American Coral Beach and Live Aqua Resorts.

RM: How did Pineda Covalin begin?
RC: Pineda Covalin started 20 years ago in 1996 as a collaboration between my partner Christina Pineda and myself (Ricardo Covalin), when we were commissioned for a project by an anthropology museum. We had created artwork inspired by pre-Columbian designs from the Mayans and the Aztecs which we printed on silk and other fabrics and built a collection around it. At the time the museum didn't have money to support the collection but we loved it and started creating scarves and ties with these motifs and brought it to other prominent museums in Mexico and later to hotels. But before that Christina and I studied at the same university and we chose to do our internship project together which was to work with two different artisan communities in Yucatan. Christina's major was in industrial design and taught an indigenous how to create textile designs to sell, and they continue to produce to this day. When we started we were really focused on creating nice gifts and memories of Mexico that told our story which people could pass along to others. We started with pre-Columbian cultures, then we focused on Mexican nature such as the butterfly which has become an iconic motif for us. We also visited ethnic groups in Hidalgo that are still alive and partook in their sacred ceremonies such as eating peyote, their sacred plant, which enabled visions and patterns that were an extension of their soul which was the inspiration for their artwork. They would form patterns with little plastic peats or yarn and we used these for our patterns. All of our inspiration was born from Mexican culture whether it was from these sacred tribes or famous contemporary Mexican artists. We started with printed silks but started to apply these exclusive patterns to different products such as clothing, handbags and jewelry and now eyewear, iPhone cases or lighters, and now we are starting to design hotel rooms.

RM: How do you think the Mexican design scene is impacting the world now?
RC: Well, I think that Mexico is one of the biggest cultures in the world now, and it is a country that has a lot to give, not only for fashion, but for gastronomy and art, with artists like Frida Kahlo. We have the culture and the history with pyramids and places that attracts visitors. So with the collaboration with Posadas it's a very good way to familiarize visitors with our culture and show what is really happening and how beautiful our country is first hand and not just from the news.

RM: Are you planning to expand in other countries soon?
RC: Yes we are selling in other countries, primarily in Latin and South America now. Sometimes we tailor our collection to different countries such as Panama where we opened a store and produced a collection that combines something special from their culture along with something from Mexico. We have also created a special collection for Colombia, Chile, Panama, and Brazil. So it's very interesting.

RM: Are you going to expand to Europe or the US?
RC: Yes, we have been in the US. We do have a store in Miami but it will be really interesting to go to other states like New York. We have sold before at Soho, but I think it would be better to have a joint venture to expand. Hopefully we will soon be there.

RM: Can you tell me more about the Spring 2017 collection?
RC: This current collection is inspired by the monarch butterfly, which is one of our classic designs and for this season it resembles the embroidery of a monarch butterfly that was inspired by some of the artisans' renditions. We also worked with the Mexican contemporary artist, Fernando Andriacci, whose art is very spiritual. He paints a mandala and when you are looking at the painting you connect with the energy that he intended for the viewer to experience while he was creating his body of work. For example, he created a special painting that sends subliminal messages of peace and gratefulness to Mexico. It's a good vibe for Mexico. We took this painting, printed it on silk and created a clothing collection with the fabric. The idea is that once you are aware of the message, every time you wear it, you are sending good vibes to Mexico. I love that because it's a very interesting way of blending contemporary art and fashion, so you have a purpose each time you wear it. If everyone was consciously aware of wearing a scarf or a piece of clothing that can send good vibes and peace to Mexico people can really change the way you are thinking by creating this positive energy. Our fall collection that launched in February was inspired by the hummingbird from the pre-Columbian culture of Mexico. It's known as the bird of love because it's meant to bridge communication, thoughts and feelings, from one person to another. So we did a whole collection around this.
Pinedacovalin.com

ABOUT THE LOCATION

Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun
Nestled on Cancun's finest stretch of private beach, the family friendly Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun offers 602 spacious and luxuriously outfitted suites that feature breathtaking ocean views, boasting glimpses of sea and sand at every turn. Décor is warm yet refined, naturally complementing the setting. The Grand Club Level offers the ultimate upgraded experience. Located on the two top floors of the resort, it features a private penthouse lounge, a 24 hour club concierge, VIP check-in and check-out, three culinary presentations throughout the day and complimentary internet access. For grown-ups, innovation meets sophistication at the resort's Gem Spa. A world-class 40,000 square foot haven of tranquility, Gem Spa boasts stunning, sophisticated design, soothing treatments inspired by gemstone therapy, unique amenities – including a 10-step hydrotherapy ritual – and 26 treatment rooms complete with luxurious, private VIP spa treatment rooms. The gorgeous beachfront is framed by tropical swaying palms and palapas along the sand and a lagoon-like pool. An ideal environment for the whole family to enjoy, the resort's newest addition – Coral KidZ Club is a $2 million, 40,000 square foot innovative and interactive "high-tech playground" that features an array of ground-breaking indoor and outdoor activities. Six restaurants offer distinct dining options that are perfect for any occasion. These include: the AAA Five Diamond Awarded French-Mediterranean Le Basilic; the oceanfront fresh seafood restaurant Isla Contoy; and the authentic and stylish La Joya, where local Mexican flavor is infused nightly with traditional Mariachi singers serenading diners. A perfect blend of serenity and activity, the resort is steps away from Cancun's vibrant nightlife, entertainment and luxury shopping as well as the high speed ferry to colorful and picturesque Isla Mujeres. This award-winning resort is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts.
grandfiestamericana.com

LIVE AQUA CANCUN

Live Aqua Cancún is an all inclusive, adults-only resort on the Caribbean Sea where you can be yourself. It's beautiful, sensual, and seductive. Indulge your senses, whether it's the aroma of exquisite cuisine, a moonlit swim, a refreshing massage and your own terrace with an ocean view. At Live Aqua, time is relaxed, idyllic and free. And why shouldn't it be? This is your dream vacation in Cancun, so live it.

Live Aqua suites are designed for desire. From a 4,000 sq. ft. Presidential Suite to our signature Aqua Suite, you can embrace the spirit, tranquility and beauty of Cancun. Enjoy private terraces, hydrotherapy, Egyptian cotton sheets, Jacuzzis and sublime views of the Caribbean Sea.

Live Aqua Cancun is about simple pleasures – touch, taste, feel. Experience a food adventure and the culinary creations of Executive Chef, César Germain. Savor his artistic touches in dishes served at our restaurants – Azur, Siete and MB – as well as Inlaa'Kech Lobster & Grill, Sea Corner, Sushi Station and the Café Deli Boutique. Our food is made with the freshest, local ingredients and spices.

Part of you being yourself at Live Aqua is taking care of yourself. As one of the most exclusive spas in Cancun, Spa Aqua is a sanctuary for your body and soul tune-up that energizes your spirit. Release tension and recharge. Spa Aqua features 11 indoor treatment rooms and 1 outdoor treatment cabana, steam bath and saunas, jacuzzi and an invigorating cold water plunge pool. Find balance and peace through healing rituals – from massages and facials to body wraps found in the spa, on the beach, poolside, or in the privacy of your room or suite.
Ocean breezes, turquoise water and white sand beach. Live Aqua Cancun is an idyllic setting for your wedding-the perfect place to say "I do" in paradise. Our resort features several romantic venues for your ceremony and reception, each offering a unique experience- a terrace that faces the sparkling sea, our Garden of Senses, or a picturesque spot on our beach. Let our Romance Experts arrange everything from music, flowers, food and accommodations, so you can enjoy every moment.
Liveaqua.com