Ibulliance: Weaving a Future Together
In March of this year, as The Waka Waka collection strutted down the runway, I stepped into my role as design and production director at Ibu. Ibu works hand in hand with women artisans around the world, championing their traditional skills and supporting them in building sustainable livelihoods. As a designer, my work has always been about storytelling, but here at Ibu, the story is not mine alone. It is shared, inherited, and woven by the hands of many women, across borders and generations.
Every day, I am in close conversation with our artisan partners—from Morocco to India, Uzbekistan to Rwanda. Together, we develop collections that carry meaning, history, and the soul of handmade beauty. It is not just about creating clothing or accessories. It is about preserving centuries-old techniques, fostering economic independence, and celebrating the artistry of women whose work is often overlooked in the mainstream fashion world.
Last week, I had the privilege of attending the International Folk Art Market in Santa Fe—a four-day festival of global artisanal craft—where I met many of our long-time artisan partners and new creators. After months of working together across different time zones, seeing each other face-to-face was incredibly moving. I saw the joy in their eyes, shared laughter, and held the very hands that embroider and weave the pieces we bring to life together. These moments reaffirm why this work matters. It is not just a business. It is a relationship built on trust, collaboration, and purpose.
Clockwise from Top Left: Nilda Callañaupa, Image courtesy of IFAM; Deniz Roth with Sandra Henao from Colombia, Lasley Steever, and Susan Walker; Aziz Murtazaev with Deniz; Lesia Pona (R), Image courtesy of IFAM.
One highlight was reconnecting with Nilda Callañaupa from Peru. Her knowledge of Andean textile heritage and commitment to organic fibers and dyes are unmatched. I attended her IFAM seminar on the future of textiles, where she spoke with wisdom and urgency about preserving ancestral knowledge. Her words and presence left a deep impression.
Another powerful moment was spending time with Aziz Murtazaev from Uzbekistan. Seeing him, and meeting his son and friends gave me a new appreciation for the depth of our partnership. Listening to him speak about the ikat process, discussing future designs, and simply being together in one place was creatively energizing.
After the market ended, I stayed on for a few design sessions. Lesia Pona from Ukraine embroiders fabrics that are full of history, strength, and beauty. Our session was a true meeting of minds, and I left feeling inspired by all that is to come. Keep following along to see what unfolds with these and many more brilliant artisans.
At Ibu, we believe every woman is the architect of her own life. When we support one another across borders, we all rise. That belief is stitched into everything we do. As a designer, I do more than sketch. I listen. I problem-solve. I build bridges.
In a world that often forgets the human hands behind the work, artisans who are showcased at IFAM and Ibu remind us to slow down and connect. This is the kind of design I am proud to lead—and the kind of future I’m excited to help weave.
Stylishly Yours,
Deniz Roth
Director of Design
