T h e S e ra p e, R e c reat e d : T h e A r t a n d A r t i s t r y o f R e c re o S a n M i g u e l
T h e S e ra p e , R e c re a t e d Recreo San Miguel is a clothing brand. Born in the “altiplano” of the Sierra Madre Mountains in central Mexico but reaching the world, Recreo San Miguel marries the traditional serape or poncho with an haute-couture sensibility to create a look that is at once highly traditional, and utterly new. The Spanish word “recreo,” meaning recreation (re-creation), became the inspiration for the company’s name. In a real sense, Recreo San Miguel is re-creating the serape...paying respect to its history while reinventing it for a new generation of consumers from across cultures and across the globe. The “creo” portion of the name also reflects the “belief” the founders of the company have that their enterprise can be a force for social good; by working with local and nearby seamstresses and tailors, they are providing economic opportunity that will grow as the brand grows. Recreo San Miguel is committed to giving back to the Mexican community through job opportunity while paying homage to its traditions and cultural history. Finally, the name “Recreo” is fitting because –– more than coincidentally –– the brand’s flagship store is located at the corner of Hospicio and Recreo streets, in a beautifully renovated historic structure.
Recr eo
The serape…woven into the fabric of San Miguel
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A Stor y, C enturies in the M aking According to the Mexican historian Francisco de la Maza, the serape was first commercially produced in San Miguel de Allende in 1780. Then, as now, serapes were prized for their beauty, comfort and versatility. Apart from its history as an early center of serape manufacture, San Miguel was also known for extraordinarily high-quality textile production beginning in the 17th century. Its textiles were reputed to have rivaled Europe and the Far East for fine craftsmanship. The Friar Francisco de Ajofrin is said to have called San Miguel’s textiles “exquisite” and in the late 1700’s wrote, “women embroider with great care and art. Shot with silk and threads of silver and gold, [some] are so good they might have been made in Europe.” At the time, coming from a European, that was high praise. In the weeks before Mexico’s bicentennial celebrations, wishing to learn about San Miguel’s pivotal role in the independence movement, Recreo’s founding designers read about these two separate threads of San Miguel’s history: serapes and fine textiles. Making a simple “creative connection,” they imagined combining the much-loved, easy-to-wear comfort of the poncho with the most beautiful fabrics available. They envisioned reinterpreting the poncho in fresh new ways: weaving together history and modernity… practicality and luxury… simplicity and elegance. And thus, Recreo San Miguel was born. Recreo has married these two pieces of Mexico’s heritage and wrapped them in a bit of high fashion. 5
The Flagship Boutique The boutique, located in one of San Miguel’s centuries-old buildings, is steps from the town’s picturesque main square. The architecture deftly combines shades of white and cool grey to achieve an utterly modern, minimalist space while respecting the building’s history. A private courtyard beckons shoppers to linger over cappuccino or agua fresca.
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Chic and sophisticated, Recreo San Miguel’s flagship boutique has become a “must-see” highlight for San Miguel visitors and residents alike.
The St yles The Miguel is a classic serape, re-imagined and recreated. Linen, cashmere, wool, cotton, silk and leather styled with beads, trims and our iconic sterling silver button bring new life to a Mexican tradition, while maintaining its versatility. The Alejandra’s sporty, open-front styling affords a range flattering looks: over one shoulder, over both, or effortlessly draped and open. A cape-like wrap with a rounded profile, the Sara can be worn wrapped over the shoulders or loosely open for an elegant and sophisticated look. The Wanda is Recreo San Miguel at its most versatile. Our oversized scarves can be wrapped around the shoulders or tied around the neck or waist. Embellished with stones, feathers, fur or fringe, these signature pieces add interest to any outfit. Cropped short with a diagonal profile and asymmetrical neckline, the Whitney is both flirty and flattering.
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Recreo San Miguel
T h e
S e ra p e,
R e c rea t e d
recreosanmiguel.com –– info@recreosanmiguel.com
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