Chiara Mia Carrasquilla, the German-Colombian fashion designer, founded Colochila in 2023. Colombian culture is at the heart of the brand and is reflected in all its designs. Enthralled by the handcrafted handbags with their diverse motifs and vibrant colours, Carrasquilla views these bags as individual art pieces, created with love and patience over weeks or even months by our talented artisans of the Wayuu tribe in Colombia.

What started as a passion evolved into a premium handbag brand that elevates Colombian craftsmanship to a new level and brings it to a broader audience. Colochila embodies ‘slow luxury’ – uncompromising quality and conscious creation for ethical fashion highlights.

We work with artisan communities on the northern coast of Colombia, away from the cities, to ensure that support reaches those who truly need it. The Wayuu are one of the largest indigenous groups in Colombia, primarily living on the Guajira Peninsula. Despite their rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years, they face challenges such as lack of education and water scarcity. Their weaving tradition, particularly the making of the Mochila, is endangered.

Creating a Mochila is a time-consuming process that can take an entire month. Wayuu women learn the intricate weaving techniques from a young age, showcasing their skill and cultural identity. Colochila promotes ethical practices and ensures fair compensation for Wayuu artisans.