INTERVIEW

What was the inspiration behind founding your own company, and how did your collections evolve from swimwear into a full womenswear line, and now a beautiful home collection as well?
The brand was born from a desire to celebrate the power of the feminine and the joy of living. I envisioned a world where elegance could be effortless and where each piece told a story. It all began with swimwear, designs for women on holiday, sun-kissed and free—but quickly expanded. That same woman wanted to host, to travel, to dream. From swim to ready-to-wear, and now into home, the world of Johanna Ortiz continues to grow organically. Every collection is an invitation to step into that world, joyful, sensual, rooted in craftsmanship and Latin spirit.

Who is the woman you design for?
I design for women who lead with confidence. She’s vibrant, curious, and effortless. She embraces volume, color, and movement. She’s adventurous but also grounded. Whether she’s barefoot by the ocean or walking into a room full of people, she owns her presence.

What is different about the way a Colombian woman styles and carries herself, and how does this aesthetic affect your design process?
There’s a particular sensuality to Colombian women, it’s in our rhythm, our gestures, our love of detail. We dress with intention but never take ourselves too seriously. That spirit is woven into everything I do: a ruffle that moves like a salsa step, a print that feels like a tropical sunset, a silhouette that invites movement. Colombian style is bold, but always with heart, and that guides my creativity.

What is your biggest advice for any woman wanting to start her own business?
Don’t be afraid to dream. Lead with passion, but anchor your vision in purpose, humanity, and clarity. And most importantly, build something that reflects your truth. Your authenticity is your superpower.

How do you balance work and motherhood?
My sons are my greatest teachers. They remind me to be present, to laugh freely, and to find joy in life’s simplest moments. I’ve learned to embrace the rhythm of it all. There’s harmony to be found in the chaos, and profound beauty in the everyday. Motherhood grounds me, even as my work asks me to dream.

Please tell us more about The Atelier and also La Escuela.
The Atelier in Cali is the soul of our brand. We’ve grown organically, stitch by stitch, person by person. Today, we are a family of 460 people, 78% of whom are women, and over 90% of our production is proudly made in-house. Every piece is touched by the caring hands of artisans.

La Escuela is our commitment to giving back. It’s an on-site training program we created to uplift women in our community, offering not just skills, but also a sense of purpose and pride. Both the atelier and La Escuela embody the values that define us: women, purpose, and empowerment. To date, more than 350 people have benefited from the different programs we offer through La Escuela.

What else inspires you?
The tropics, women, the Latin flair, art, books, architecture. The imperfect beauty of nature. I’m endlessly inspired by contrasts, raw and refined, tradition and innovation, the lush and the minimal. And of course, the women around me, strong, soulful, and full of grace.

Where do you go to escape and reset?
Always the ocean, Cartagena, especially. Even a quiet morning in my house, surrounded by palm trees and birdsong, brings me peace. Nature heals me. I find clarity in stillness, in the rustle of leaves, in the rhythm of the breeze. That’s where I dream best.

Please tell us your favorite places to eat/sleep/play/shop in Colombia!
In Cartagena, I always return to the timeless charm of La Vitrola. For hidden treasures, I love wandering through El Arcón Anticuario. End the night dancing salsa at Café Havana, and don’t forget to stop by our store near Plaza Santo Domingo; it’s a jewel in the heart of the city. In Medellín, stay at the beautifully designed Hotel 23 and wine and dine at Sambombi Bistro; the botanical garden is a must for a peaceful escape. In Bogotá, Pajares Salinas remains a classic favorite, and a night at Andrés Carne de Res is pure Colombian spirit. Be sure to visit our flagship store while you’re there, it’s where the soul of the brand comes alive.

What is next for you?
To keep expanding the world of Johanna Ortiz with purpose, creativity, and connection, inviting women to step into our universe in a more personal and seamless way. From storytelling to service, every detail matters. We want the journey to feel intimate, thoughtful, and true to who we are: feminine, Latin, festive, and refined. There’s still so much to say… and I can’t wait to keep telling our story.