We've known Julio since the days when Descalza was just an idea. When we launched our Kickstarter, we had many college friends, like him, who supported us. But little did I know that the support would flourish into creating several custom pieces for his career. Read below why Julio has continued to seek us as his designer all these years, and what it means to him as a Mexican wearing Central American textiles.
I have known Lisbeth [Caro] for about 15 years, since our time in college, and even back then, she was always focused on finding ways to uplift the Latino community. That’s just who she is. Whether it was in North Carolina with migrant communities or now through her company, that mission has always been consistent.
When she started Descalza, I wanted to support her—but I didn’t realize how much it would impact me personally.
IT ALL STARTED WITH A TIE
The first piece I bought was a tie. It had traditional colors, and I remember wearing it to different events and even in professional settings. It was the first time I felt like I could bring something Latino into those spaces in a way that still felt polished and appropriate. That was new for me. And honestly, it felt empowering.
BLAZERS THAT SHOW MY PRIDE IN PROFESSIONAL SPACES
Since then, I’ve added more pieces. A shirt with embroidery that I can wear casually. And then two blazers that really stand out to me. One is lighter, with more vibrant, paisa-inspired colors. The other is darker, more subtle—something I can wear in more traditional business settings.
But both carry meaning.
I’ve worn the lighter suit to award ceremonies at work, to weddings, to moments that matter. The darker one I wore recently to a Latino awards event. And every time, it’s more than just putting on a suit. It’s a way of showing up connected to my community and proud of my heritage.
It’s a reminder that it’s okay to be Latino, brown, and proud—especially in professional spaces where that isn’t always the norm.
MY IDENTITY IS MORE THAN MEXICAN- IT'S LATINO
One thing that’s really meaningful to me is that, as a Mexican, I’m wearing pieces that feature traditional Guatemalan textiles. And I think that’s powerful. My identity isn’t just Mexican—it’s Latino. And sometimes, within our own communities, we create divisions that don’t need to exist.
Wearing these pieces reminds me that our cultures are connected.
I feel proud representing that. I feel like I’m part of something bigger when I wear it.
STYLE THAT CREATES AN OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE MY STORY
And people notice. I’ve had coworkers and strangers come up to me and ask where I got my blazer or tie. Not just Latinos—everyone. They’re drawn to the colors, the patterns, the uniqueness. And it creates an opportunity to share the story behind it.
THIS ISN'T JUST ABOUT CLOTHING
Looking ahead, I plan to keep supporting Descalza—not just for the style, but for what it represents. And eventually, I want my kids to be part of that too. I want my daughter and my son to wear pieces that help them feel proud of where they come from.
Because at the end of the day, this isn’t just about clothing.
It’s about identity. It’s about connection. And it’s about showing up fully as yourself—wherever you are.
-Julio Ramirez
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