Students from the Technical Baccalaureate in Garment Industry at the Quito Public Educational Institution presented a fashion show inspired by the Sierra region of Ecuador, featuring Andean weaving as a central element in their designs. The event took place on March 19 in the courtyards of the school, located in Chimbacalle, south of the city, and was attended by María José Moyano, Undersecretary of Education, Sports and Culture of Quito.
Moyano said that these events help value cultural identity and creative talent developed through education. “These encounters allow us to recognize the effort of students, teachers and designers, who project our roots towards new scenarios of artistic and cultural expression,” she added.
More than 180 technical baccalaureate students worked with five teachers to create garments that blend traditional textile heritage with contemporary fashion. The initiative aims to promote appreciation for Ecuadorian cultural heritage through innovation in silhouettes, proportions and garment-making techniques.
The reinterpretation of traditional Sierra clothing—such as ponchos, anacos, shawls, sashes and rebozos—inspired both students and teachers. Through design processes, they integrated contemporary pattern-making with textiles influenced by Andean traditions. The resulting pieces reflect symbolic meaning by incorporating artisanal fabrics as both structural and decorative elements. In this show, Andean weaving served not only as decoration but also as a narrative thread connecting each piece to the cultural memory of the Sierra region.
Fanny Pachacama, coordinator of the technical area, said that fashion shows are a professional practice that helps students develop key knowledge and skills while providing commercial insight into design as both art and product.
The Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening technical training that enhances students’ creative and productive abilities through projects integrating innovation, culture and identity.
