Violeta Villacorta: DESIGNER AND OWNER in Idyllwild, CA

ORG BY VIO was created to support traditional artistry and help market the Amazon rainforest artisans’ handmade jewelry and accessories, as a way to generate a sustainable income for the talented women I work with. Designing collections that are authentic to each community, and buying their traditional designs, we have built a brand that has taken their arts and crafts to a higher level of design and quality that continues to impress fashionistas and conscious consumers alike. www.orgbyvio.com

Pioneering sustainable high-fashion since 1993, I have been creating handcrafted wearable art made with sustainable materials, developing timeless and season-less collections. I also work with clients on custom orders that bear the unique, modern, hand embellished details my clothes are known for. My collections have been shown in New York and Los Angeles Fashion Week. They have also been featured in film, television, national and international magazines, and have dressed luminaries in the music and film industries. www.violetavillacorta.com

As the owner and curator of the Sage & the Butterfly, I focus on lines that are ethical and fair trade, handmade by artists who use recycled, upcycled and plant-based materials. The store is now online-only with pop-ups across the US. We closed our brick and mortar extension of the ORG by vio brand and online shop to live and wok around the continent. Initially opened to support and sell collections handmade by Amazon rainforest artisans I work with, it expanded to offer lines handcrafted by local, USA and international artists and designers. www.thesageandthebutterfly.com

A fun position where I used my artistic creativity on clothing as the canvas. Designed all embroideries and beading for evening wear division. Worked closely with design director to develop silhouettes and color palettes. Oversaw beaders and embroiderers. Worked with patternmakers, assistants and production team.

As an executive assistant, my work involved translating, bookkeeping and interpreting for visiting indigenous leaders and representatives. My time at Amazon Watch served to connect me deeper to environmental and social issues in the Amazon Basin. I continue my relationship with Amazon Watch, which connected me with the first Amazon community, and collects contributions for my work with indigenous Amazon artisans on my behalf. Amazon Watch works to protect the rainforest and advance the rights of indigenous people in the Amazon Basin. www.amazonwatch.org