The ‘pantalones santiagueros’ have captivated the people of Huancaínos, which is why we went after their creator. The Wanka tradition and culture were the inspiration for the original and beautiful creations of the Jauja designer. Malena (Lena) Floreswho set this new trend. Correo spoke with the talented young woman.
Your designs with regional themes became very well known, are they the basis of all your work?
It’s been almost 7 years of work, I have two lines, casual and formal. The one that went viral is the casual line, which has designs inspired by cultures and traditions from different provinces such as Huancayo, Jauja, Ayacucho, Cusco, Puno, Tarma and La Selva.
How does cultural themes inspire your designs?
I worked for more than a year to create the “pantalón wanka” (original name with which it was created), which I now know as the “pantalón santiaguero” (santiago pants). I was inspired by the embroidery of the huaylarsh and the santiago. I took the colors and shapes of the flowers as a reference to arrive at the final product of my design. Each of his creations has a story and a deep context. In addition, I have 28 handkerchief designs hand-painted by a Huancaíno artist.
Indeed, the wanka pants became very popular. Are you affected by the replicas that came out on the markets?
On the one hand, I am pleased with the public’s response; when there are replicas, it means that they really liked the design. However, it also affects me because some merchants use the brand name and even the original photos to pass off their copies as originals. The design is patented and I am going to file a complaint.
Some people saw this garment as a “replacement” for the traditional clothing of Santiago. Was it created with that purpose?
Definitely not, and I want to make that clear to the entire population. The “wanka pants” are part of a fashion, they are not intended to replace the beautiful petticoat or talqueado. It would kill traditions and kill our own essence as a province.
Is there room and opportunity for fashion in Huancayo?
This type of work is more appreciated abroad. My stores are in Barranco and Miraflores in Lima and I have a point of sale in Huancayo, and sometimes foreigners place orders and the designs reach Germany, Chile and countries in Europe.
As a native of Jauja, was it easy for you to get to where you are in the fashion industry?
No, it was quite difficult. I tried to start little by little when I was 21. After a few years I had a break because I became a mother, then I started again with a new collection but there wasn’t much acceptance. I was in Miss Junín and little by little and based on effort, sacrifices and even tears I was able to get ahead.
How was working with actress Mayela Lloclla?
She helped me a lot, I’ve been dressing her for two and a half years, she was the image of the launch of the pants. I also dressed Ernesto Pimentel, Maju and many more.
