Exploring the space between European luxury and Berber craft
Paris-based designer Calla Haynes, originally from Toronto Canada, launched her namesake womenswear label in 2009. The collection had critical and commercial success, but by 2015 Calla was ready to explore more sustainable alleys of design. Placing the ready-to-wear line on hiatus, she focused her attention on collaborations with diverse high-end brands around the world both as a textile designer and design consultant.
This collaborative spirit inspired Calla to seek out artisans in Morocco to explore the space between European Luxury and Berber Craft
The result is the Boucharoite Project:
initiatives that focus on two key themes of Sustainable Design - recycling textiles and supporting traditional craft. This includes an ongoing series of rugs made with female weavers, and a collection of Babouche slippers handmade in the souk of Marrakesh using upcycled vintage Boucharouite rugs. The project continues past the borders of Morocco with a furniture collection with Toronto-based makers Coolican & Company and new collaboration with the French clog makers Bosabo.
Calla is dedicated to raising awareness about textile waste and the importance of supporting artisans.
Handmade from upcycled vintage Berber rugs,
Calla´s Babouche mules exist in limited edition - just a handful for each rug. They boast textural details that are one-of-a-kind. Like all Babouche slippers, they are comfortable to wear and effortlessly versatile. Every pair supports local Moroccan craftspeople and their traditions.
The CALLA Mono Niki Babouche is the same shape as the classic Niki Babouche but rather than being made of vintage Boucharouite rugs, they are made from new rugs commissioned by CALLA. The BLACK style is made from a mix of black fabrics sourced from the luxury fashion supply chain.
credits
image 1, 2 & 3: CALLA PARIS
