Everyone knows Berliners wear black, the memes on Instagram can attest to it. While we know that’s not entirely true, bright colors can be hard to come by. When Marisa moved from Peru to Berlin in 2015, she dressed mostly in dark tones. However, her native Peruvian love for color was ever present, as bright hues are integral to Peruvian culture. Founding her fashion label Maqu gave her a creative space to explore her love of color. Her designs are inspired by the traditions of her homeland, along with elements of dreams and technology, resulting in a truly diverse collection. One standout from her current line is a vibrant block-striped pantsuit. The “Zigzag” dress and the fitted, all-over print “Mycel” dress are also stunning highlights that make bold statements.
Yet, the look is just one part of her brand philosophy. Marisa is committed to high-quality materials and a transparent supply chain. Maqu comprises a team of three in Berlin and two in Lima, working exclusively with producers and tailors Marisa knows personally. She is familiar with the families, living conditions, and living costs of those involved in crafting the garments. Maqu prioritizes ecological, ethical, social and regional considerations in fabric selection. Their alpaca wool, for instance, is sustainably sourced from free-roaming, respectfully treated animals. The “Arequipa Sweater B,” made from this wool, promises warmth in Berlin’s winter and offers a gentle introduction to color: one side of the body features an unusual yellow-beige combination, while the other side is a classic dark blue.
Text: Nina Trippel / Photos: Alexander Pérez-Flores & Jorge Anaya
Maqu Store & Studio, Libauer Str.4, 10245 Berlin–Friedrichshain; map
@by_maqu
