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exquisite

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accessories made in Ecuador

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ATELIER AVANZAR

#buygood #dogood

Since 2009, in Cuenca – Ecuador, ATELIER AVANZAR has been creating bags and accessories that bring together fine craftsmanship, slow fashion, and timeless design. Each piece carries the stories of the remarkable women who shape and support the Atelier.

Behind the label stands Fundación Avanzar, the non-profit founded in Zurich in 1999 by Margarita Heredia Forster. What began as an initiative to support disadvantaged mothers, women, and children in Ecuador has evolved into a dynamic movement, built on the conviction that education and vocational training are the keys to lasting independence.

The mission of the Foundation is to transform women with limited resources into true entrepreneurs. The mission of the Atelier is to create exquisite products that bring joy and pride to its clients and community, while providing fair, well-paid work to Ecuadorian artisans.

Beatriz, Concha mit Ihrem Enkelkind & Margarita

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THE CREATION PROCESS

PEOPLE AND WORK ETHICS

In a world of fast fashion, the Avanzar team dares to stop and look closely. Without rushing it, they enjoy their love for the process, the details and – most importantly – the people.

Working conditions and work ethics are a priority in all parts of the creative process. The weavers are the heart of the Atelier and their well-being and that of their families are the motor that energizes and motivates us every single day.

The bags are designed in a perfect and harmonious teamwork between Switzerland and Ecuador and handmade by an excellent team of weavers and artisans in Ecuador —a country known for its long history as a manufacturer of handicrafts.

SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS

The materials used to create Avanzar bags are sourced in Ecuador, Peru & Colombia. The quality of yarn and leather are very important for the durability of the bags, as is the expertise and perfection of the handmade work. Therefore, we pay particular attention to both.

Our bags are protected on the inside with a soft but durable and washable lining, which prevents the weaved part from warping or stretching. The material from which the bags are woven is washable, water-repellent and will remain in good condition for a very long time.

HANDMADE & ONE-OF-A-KIND

The shapes and details of our bags showcase the high level of attention put into the work. Each bag is meticulously handcrafted by both a weaver and a professional artisan from the first step to the last.

The small team and close collaboration encourage creativity and quality throughout the entire process.

OUR CONTRIBUTION TO WOMEN & SOCIETY

While the Atelier Avanzar was created in 2009 to offer flexible and well-paid work to women and mothers with limited resources, as well as to support the Fundación Avanzar with an important part of its annual expenses, the Fundación Avanzar has been dedicated since 1999 to providing training in practical areas to enterprising women who are looking to improve their lives and those of their children.