Latin American Design Platform 'Acuarela' Launches

- The platform was co-founded by investor Tania Fabiani and acclaimed Brazilian designer Marcelo Quadros, launching with a private VIP event in Greenwich, Connecticut, on May 29, 2025. Fabiani's vision was to create a platform that showcases the "lifestyle, artistry, and soul" of Latin American countries to a global audience, inspired by the many luxury designers in the region who are largely unknown in the U.S. - Acuarela's business model focuses on forging direct commercial relationships and verified wholesale agreements with designers, positioning itself as a trusted curator of authentic Latin American luxury. This strategy of careful curation and quality control for all items, which are imported and pass through U.S. customs before being offered for sale, aims to support designers directly. - The platform's aesthetic is characterized by a blend of sustainable craftsmanship and contemporary sophistication, with pieces featuring hand-sewn feather details and flowing chiffon capes as examples of the artistry and heritage celebrated. The debut collection included prominent designers such as Marcelo Quadros, DGaia, Reinaldo Lourenço, Agua de Coco, and Ammi. - To build community and brand presence, Acuarela employs a strategy of hosting intimate, in-person events. This includes a New York Fashion Week debut at the Baccarat Hotel and a private trunk show in Tribeca, allowing clients to engage directly with the garments and designers. - The launch comes as the Latin American e-commerce market is projected to exceed $215 billion in 2026, growing 1.5 times faster than the global average. This growth is largely driven by a mobile-first consumer base, with 84% of online purchases in the region made via smartphones. - The platform taps into the trend of "experiential consumption" in Latin America, where social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are key channels for product discovery and research, blending shopping with social experiences. This aligns with Acuarela's strategy of using visual storytelling to create an emotional connection and a distinct brand identity. - Acuarela is entering a market where major players like Mercado Libre and Amazon are dominant, but there is a growing trend of independent sites gaining traction as merchants seek more direct control over their customer relationships. - The platform's focus on non-Western visual storytelling is a key differentiator, as brands that effectively use visual narratives to communicate their identity and values can create a strong emotional connection with their audience, fostering loyalty.