Before Descalza became a trending Kickstarter Project I knew it would be a success. I backed Descalza along 268 others not just because of what it stands for, but also because of the person behind the dream.
I have known Lisbeth Arias for eight years now and known about her dream of infusing her culture and heritage into fashion for almost as much time. In these years I have come to know her as a person who embodies all the traits of an immigrant; tenacity, sense of community, and pride. With these traits Lisbeth has created a sustainable business model that allows her to meld two cultures and countries that she calls home while expressing their unique qualities. This is a task that I know she had difficulty with growing up in a foreign land where it is simply easier to assimilate and let go of your history.
And now, these clothes share that same story with you. Descalza’s story began with an immigrant’s dream and a community of 269. A community that continues to grow with allies and children of multiple cultures. These clothes are for you. Descalza is for you, and me.
I wear Descalza because it encourages knowledge of and the bridging of our cultures over appropriation. I wear Descalza because it gives me a sense of community with no barriers; lo mio es tuyo. I wear Descalza because it represents my story. I wear Descalza to commemorate my family who toiled away so that I could have a better life here in the United States. I wear Descalza because it reminds me of all the lessons I have been taught by my immigrant mother. I wear Descalza because I am PROUD. #wearDescalza, #weAreDescalza
-David Perez
I found the Descalza Kickstarter through a friend’s post on Facebook. I was in tears watching Caro’s powerful message that verbalized an inner struggle between pride and belonging that has lived at my core for much of my life. Although our stories are different, the values and messaging of Descalza resonated deeply. My parents are both immigrants from separate countries. Navigating those separate cultures while living in the United States has not only given me a deep sense of pride in the values that have been imparted to me by my ancestors, but also has pushed me to understand that belonging doesn’t mean ‘fitting in’ or ‘being the same’ as others. This can be true for anyone—recent immigrant or not. The experiences you have make-up your unique cultural heritage, informing your values and the ways in which you think and act. Descalza invites you to embrace those differences and belong to a movement that recognizes the power of uniting through textiles.
Each time I wear my scarf, I’m not only reminded of my heritage and the power of my voice because of my experiences, but also of the powerful voices that surround me as I go about my day. It’s a reminder to listen, just as I took time to listen to Descalza’s message and found that there were so many ways that I could learn from Caro’s heritage. My favorite thing about the scarf is its versatility. I’ve worn it around my neck in casual and professional settings, on my head like a hairband or tied to my purse as an accent. Anytime I need a little reminder that I belong or am feeling extra confident in who I am and want to impart that belonging to others, I find a way to piece it into an outfit.
Because the world works in amazing ways, a friend connected me with Caro soon after seeing the Kickstarter. I enthusiastically asked her on a girl date for coffee. What I thought would be an hour ended in three hours of laughing and sharing, listening and learning. Words are powerful but actions gain trust and I can confidently say that Descalza stands behind its values in words and actions. Caro and I may have different stories, but we both believe strongly that our differences are worthy of celebrating together.
-Eliza Mathew
I am very particular about what I wear. I find myself sometimes being indecisive about a shirt or pair of pants. But I really enjoy Descalza because of the cultural feeling I get from It. I feel really connected to the fabric and colors. Lisbeth has done an amazing job at creating a personal touch for the wearer.
I backed Descalza because of the story behind it. Lis has a powerful one and I really relate to it. Being the son of immigrants, my culture is a huge part of my identity and I’m super proud of it. I can remember trips to Mexico, walking through el mercado, all the colors, the people, the food, etc.. These pieces of clothing remind me of those days, of kickin’ on the playa con un horchata, en la hamaca, being with my family.
I wear Descalza because es parte de mi cultura.
-David Rashidi