Candela is an homage to Salvadoran culture. Established in 2023, Candela has become a beacon of collaboration with traditional Salvadoran artists, crafting authentic, handmade, ready-to-wear pieces. Our creations celebrate and preserve the artistic heritage and the unique cultural identity of El Salvador.
Our mission is to support the stewards of our cultural heritage, facilitating the continuation and appreciation of traditional artisanal skills. Spanning six distinct Salvadoran locations, our network of artisans are not merely craftsmen; they are dream weavers, infusing centuries-old traditions into a contemporary fashion narrative.
Candela actively collaborates with Mater Filus, a women’s shelter in El Salvador, and Diseña Tu Meta, a women’s empowerment NGO, to provide training and empowerment programs for women from disadvantaged backgrounds. Our commitment extends beyond individual empowerment, as we endeavor to strengthen our community through educational workshops and initiatives designed to sustain cultural heritage and stimulate economic growth through opportunity creation.
Fusing tradition with innovation, Candela is bringing forth Salvadoran artistry to the global stage. Our approach, centered on responsible partnership, community engagement, and the celebration of cultural legacy, sets the new standard for how fashion brands contribute to societal and cultural sustainability.
floración pancha
Every first sunday of may, the residents of Panchimalco adorn themselves with flowers and create colorful palm fronds that parade in the procession in honor of the virgin of the rosary and the immaculate conception. To the sounds of marimbas, the dance of the “historiantes,” and the smells of traditional food, the “festival de las flores y las palmas” is celebrated. This collection is a tribute to our history and the vibrant colors that emanate from the celebration. It is crafted using traditional techniques from El Salvador, such as waist loom weaving and manual sewing techniques.
linen pants sets
The pants, embellished with linen flower-like textures, evoke the essence of las palmas y flores used in the Panchimalcan celebration.
Candela creates clothing with intentionality. Hand crafted in Panchimalco, the collection’s muted colors communicate the fading traditions of the festival de las flores y las palmas, one of the last strongholds of cultural celebration in El Salvador.
linen skirt set
The seed, harvested from the tree of fire, is hand-sewn at the center of the top to embody the rhythm and energy of the festival. The billowy sleeves and side-slit skirt offer a contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional festival attire, infusing a modern flair whilst honoring cultural roots.
bags
Each fringe bag is meticulously crafted with 100% leather. Our bags are unique pieces that are made to move with you.
Candela’s artisans used manual interventions to create the delicate shape of the flower bag, finished off with a handle from the wood of the Concaste tree.
la ceiba capsule 1
Introducing “La Ceiba,” a captivating capsule collection inspired by indigenous dance jewelry, meticulously crafted by Salvadoran artisans of Mayan heritage. Rooted in chromotherapy principles, this vibrant collection embraces ancestral wisdom. Each piece features intricate beadwork depicting creatures like spiders, jaguars, panthers, and scorpions, alongside symbols of healing and tradition.
Each bracelet reflects the beauty of Mayan culture. Elements such as the mother cell and jaguars are depicted throughout the beaded work.
Symbolism merges with craftsmanship, with each design bearing profound significance. Unique in their creation, no two bracelets are alike, showcasing the artisan’s skill and tradition’s spirit. Explore heritage and adornment power in this distinctive collection, where artistry and tradition unite seamlessly.
nahuales capsule
2
Introducing “Nahuales,” a captivating capsule collection inspired by indigenous dance jewelry crafted by Salvadoran artisans of Mayan heritage. Rooted in chromotherapy principles, this collection exudes vibrancy and meaning. Each piece features beadwork with colorful geometric designs, and one of the twenty Mayan Nahuales – symbols of energy and spirit. “Nahual” means the essence of beings and nature. These accessories offer a link to Mayan culture and a connection to our heritage. This collection invites customers to explore Mayan traditions and discover their own nahual.
hats capsule 3-5
Our cowboy hat collection pays homage to the rich palm and yute weaving techniques employed in crafting these iconic accessories. In addition to their inherent craftsmanship, our hats offer a personalized touch.
Originating from the artisanal hubs of Tenancingo and Cojutepeque, this tradition traces back to the skilled hands that fashioned hats for “El Cipitio,” a legendary figure in Salvadoran folklore. Each palm hat design is hand-painted, one-of-a-kind, and customizable.
band hats capsule 4
Designed for the adventurous and free-spirited, our hats embody a sense of exploration and cultural heritage.
In addition to their beautiful craftsmanship, our cowboy hats offer a personalized touch.
Our hats are 100% sustainable, handmade using yute and recycled wire in Cojutepeque. The bands are made from recycled fabrics, adding color and personality to each design.
san sebastian capsule 6
Presenting “San Sebastian,” a refined capsule collection inspired by the artisans of San Sebastian.
Our goal is to honor and preserve handloom weaving traditions while highlighting the beauty of handmade fabrics and elevating everyday basics.
