By Cristina Rivas - Translated by Laura Osuna

 

In a world where fast fashion has left deep traces in the environment and in society, the Argentine designer Paula explained that the name of the brand "Paolina Cattorini" comes from her grandfather, whom she fondly remembers, and named it according to the name with which he called her.

 

Cattorini is committed to a different model: a luxury fashion that not only seeks to dress, but also raises awareness and cares for both the planet and people.

 

During a close and honest conversation, Paula shared her vision about sustainability, the impact of the new generations, and the fundamental role of self-love in this cultural change.

 

A process that takes time and awareness

For Cattorini, sustainable fashion represents a deep change that does not happen overnight. "It is a process that takes years because first you have to educate the consumer and the market," she explains. It is not easy, but it highlights a key factor that favors this path: the new generations.

 

"Young people already come with a different mindset. They naturally apply environmental and social awareness, because they have grown up in a world that requires to question, inform, and take action themselves," she said. On the other hand, for previous generations, this change demands more significant effort and adaptation.

 

However, Paula recognizes that the challenge does not end there. For the advancement of conscious fashion, it is necessary to transmit information, generate spaces for dialogue, and, above all, be consistent between what is said and what is done. “Consistency is essential,” she affirms.

 

A path that started in MOLA

Her integration into the sustainable fashion ecosystem of Universo MOLA was key to iher growth. Paula has participated in different editions of Universo MOLA Fashion Week, a platform and an event that promotes designers committed to cultural and environmental change in the industry. In the 2024 edition, her work was recognized with the MOLA prize and a special scholarship, which represents a milestone in her career.

 

"When I received the prize and the scholarship, it was a total surprise. I was not expecting that. The experience in Guatemala was unique, not only for the recognition, but for the warmth, commitment, and professionalism from all the people who made that week possible. They made me feel at home, part of a genuine community," she remembers excitedly.

 

This link with MOLA has not only opened doors but has also reinforced her commitment to continue leaving her mark on the industry and society.

 

A brand with purpose

Paolina Cattorini not only leads a personal project, but has built a homonymous brand that reflects her values: social commitment, respect for culture, conscious processes and a human approach in each garment. Her collections are a tribute to authenticity and diversity, always seeking a balance between aesthetics, ethics, and responsibility.

 

Currently, she is working to expand her reach, and soon, she will be able to make international shipments, allowing her designs to reach more people who share the philosophy of dressing with awareness.

 

Sustainability as an integral concept

One of the points that Paula highlights most is that sustainability not only involves environmental care, but also personal, social, economic, and cultural well-being. “It all starts with taking care of yourself, with self-love. I am not talking about a selfish love, but a love that, when it’s genuine, is projected towards others and the environment," she reflected.

 

For her, sustainable fashion must be a reflection of that internal well-being and an authentic commitment. "It is not just producing clothes with ecological materials, it is thinking about the processes, the people involved, the impact we generate, and how we integrate cultural diversity," she noted.

 

In addition, she highlights the importance of promoting the encounter between cultures as a fundamental value in this transformation. "Fashion can be a bridge to unite traditions, stories, and knowledge that enrich society," she added.

 

Happiness as a compass

Throughout the talk, Paula insisted on the importance of listening to oneself and following a way aligned with one's values. "We are passing through this life. Therefore, everyone must do what makes them happy, what fills the soul and allows them to share it with others. If it does not make you happy, that is probably not the way to go,” she assured.

 

This approach also applies to her brand and each project she gets involved in. She believes that actions should stem from conviction, not from fashion or trends. “If you do it just for marketing or because there's a movement, it does not make sense. It must come from within, from awareness, and from a genuine desire to create a positive impact."

 

A message for the new generations

Before concluding, Paula shared a message aimed at young people who want to be part of the change towards a conscious fashion: "Listen to your heart, to your conscience. Do not follow this path just because it is fashionable, but because you really feel it and want to contribute to the well-being of the planet, people, and culture. When one does things from the soul, the results transcend.”

 

With this philosophy, Cattorini not only drives a new paradigm in the textile industry but also inspires others to build a more conscious, empathetic, and sustainable world, where fashion is, above all, an act of self and collective love.