(San Diego, CA; February 28,
2004) Manos de Mexico, a maker of unique
one-of-a-kind fashions, is presenting Chibella, a new
line of 100% handmade merino wool sweaters for children,
this week at the Children's Club fall/winter 2004
exhibition, (the Jacob Javits Center, 11th Avenue at 36th
Street, New York City). Labeled with the tagline, "The
Way Color Feels," the Chibella line is characterized by
vibrant colors with intricate handmade designs, where no
two pieces of clothing are exactly alike. The line is
produced in the central Mexican state of Michoacan by the
indigenous population that has inhabited the area for
centuries. All Chibella products, which include hand-knit
sweaters, stylish ponchos, caps and booties, are made
with hand-dyed wool and knitting techniques passed on
through the ages, but in designs that are as contemporary
as the most stylish Italian imports.
Latin Styling and Mexican
Handcrafting Compete with European Brands
"Chibella captures the passion and
richness of Mexico, and shows that Latin styling can be
every bit as fashionable as Italian or French imports,"
said Doug Cooper, president and CEO of parent company
Manos de Mexico, which has its offices in San Diego, CA
and in Guadalajara, Mexico "When you add that all
Chibella styles are handmade from the world's finest
wool, we've got a very exciting product for the
children's market."
Cooper added that the exchange rate is
much more favorable for importing goods from Mexico than
from Europe. "The dollar is weak compared to the Euro,
but strong against the peso, he said. "This allows us to
offer a high end product, sometimes at half of what you'd
pay for a European import."
The Chibella line has three parts. The
"Bella Days" line gets its inspiration from the annual
migration, through Michoacan, of 100 millions monarch
butterflies to Northern sanctuaries. Colorful,
intricately woven styles in cardigan and pullover reflect
the myriad of colors and swirling designs. The Bella Days
selection also features one of Chibella's most original
styles - a sweater/jacket with all shag or shag trim (on
cuffs, collar and waist) accents; and a full line of
ponchos with matching woven caps.
The "Colorful Moods" designs feature
rich scenes distinctly depicted from nature, the vivid
impact of rainbows and checkerboard patterns, and the
subtle hues of the Montanas collection. For accessories,
Chibella caps and super-soft booties are warm and plush
for winters but not too heavy for most year-round
climates.
Line Does Well in Upscale
Boutiques
Andalynn Richie, owner of the upscale
children's clothing store "Pout" in La Jolla, CA and in
San Diego's trendy downtown area, likes the Chibella line
for its appeal to consumers who appreciate handmade
quality without sacrificing fashion. "Chibella competes
very well with the shop's European lines," she
said.
Chibella's suggested retail prices
range from $18 USD for knitted caps to $85 USD for its
top of the line sweaters. For more information, contact
Chibella, 619-795-6868; or 877-463-7466; info@chibella.com;
www.chibella.com.
Chibella is represented by Christy Holcomb, Paperdoll
Style, San Diego, California, 619-985-0655.