Crafting the Eternal Summer
In the heart of Rio de Janeiro, amidst its sun-drenched beaches and vibrant street life, a unique brand has taken root, embodying the eternal summer spirit that the city is famous for. Wai Wai Rio, established in 2015 by designer Leo Neves, offers a refreshing take on handcrafted bags that celebrate the essence of its birthplace with a playful twist. Neves, a true Rio boy and a born aesthete, has enriched the brand with his extensive experience as a stylist and design assistant for prominent figures in the Rio fashion scene.
Wai Wai Rio stands as a testament to slow fashion, prioritizing local production and meticulous craftsmanship. The brand's dedication to traditional manufacturing processes results in exquisite accessories that represent a contemporary Brazil. By blending rustic materials with cutting-edge ones, Wai Wai Rio creates wooden and straw pieces enhanced with leather, silk, acrylic, and metal touches.
Craftsmanship and Process
True to the slow fashion movement, Wai Wai Rio boasts an elaborate and precious production process. The journey of each bag starts with simple paper and pencil, transforming through meticulous handcrafting until the design comes to life. The essence of Wai Wai Rio is found in the artisanal skill and sensitivity, combining rustic and sophisticated raw materials to create accessories that reflect a contemporary and elegant Brazil, ready for the eternal summer of the world.
Materials
-
Wicker: A prime material derived from the Titica vine, native to the Brazilian Amazon, wicker cultivation and handling are regulated by environmental protection agencies, ensuring sustainability.
-
Leather: Wai Wai Rio's leather is processed with sustainability in mind. Every step, from the rural producer to waste disposal, is monitored to ensure a responsible and low-environmental-impact production.
-
Metal: The brand's metal components comply with international export standards concerning restricted chemical substances. Its painting lines are free from heavy metals, using certified raw materials, internal recycling, and manufacturing processes designed to minimize environmental impact.
-
Acrylic: The acrylic used in Wai Wai Rio's pieces is 100% recycled, sourced from fully reusable raw materials, underscoring the brand's commitment to environmental sustainability.
Wai Wai Rio not only captures the vibrant and tropical magnetism of Brazil but also showcases the country's roots in a modern light. Through its dedication to craftsmanship, sustainability, and the slow fashion movement, Wai Wai Rio crafts not just accessories but symbols of an endless summer, inviting the world to experience the joy and beauty of Brazil's rich culture.