For many in Colombia, coconuts falling from trees onto local beaches are often seen as waste. However, for Colombian fashion designer Isabella Espinosa, these ubiquitous shells presented a unique, sustainable opportunity. Growing up in Colombia and helping at her father’s undergarments company, Espinosa eventually launched her own swimwear line. The distinctive packaging of bikinis in coconut shells inspired her Fruit Jungle collection, one of the first in her Baobab fashion line, founded in 2015.
Espinosa collaborated with artist Pilar Hernandez to create the coconut-shell bikini packaging that caught the attention of Victoria’s Secret. Since then, her creations have been sold at Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, and Revolve. This spring, she expanded into her latest storefront, Baobab’s flagship store at 392 Bleecker Street in the West Village. The launch was celebrated with a runway show featuring the line’s “Beach to Bar” outfits, designed to function as both swimsuit coverups and stylish outfits for social outings.
**People, Planet, and Community**
The flagship store’s opening felt like a natural step for Espinosa, whose brand’s global revenues soared from $250,000 in 2020 to $5 million in 2022. The Baobab line is now sold in more than 200 boutiques and department stores worldwide.
Espinosa’s goal in expanding into the U.S. market is to showcase the value of Colombian craftsmanship. She emphasizes staying true to the brand’s essence, which is reflected in every detail of her designs: iridescent textures, light elastic fabrics, and minimalist accessories made of sustainable materials. Her business model is built on three pillars: people, planet, and community.
Baobab’s environmental philosophy is embodied in its name, inspired by the African “tree of life.” Espinosa aims to create innovative pieces that challenge design and sustainability paradigms, reduce production waste, and ensure that garments do not end up in landfills. The company also donates to Corales de Paz on Colombia’s San Andrés Island to support coral colony restoration.
Inclusivity is another focus, with efforts to increase the range of body types represented on the runway, including plus-size models.
**”Faith Isn’t Blind, It’s Visionary”**
Espinosa’s journey began as a 22-year-old law student at Universidad de los Andes in Bogotá. Passionate about designing bikinis, she balanced her studies with designing, often surrounded by law books and sewing materials. She even declined a graduate assistantship to focus on her swimwear designs, saving lunch money to buy materials.
Her early involvement in her father’s undergarments company, Las Gatas, taught her essential business skills, enabling her to make significant decisions about her career. Her father’s support encouraged her to pursue her dreams with Baobab.
Starting humbly on Instagram and through the Colombian artisan fair Buró, Espinosa received a warm welcome, affirming her path. “Faith isn’t blind: it’s visionary,” she said.
**Raising the Profile**
Espinosa developed her brand around versatile resort wear suitable for various settings, from the beach to the office. She believes opening a store in New York benefits not only her brand but also other Colombian and Latino designers.
“We love being in fashion and creating change,” she said. “As we gain visibility and create awareness worldwide, we also draw attention to other Colombian and Latino designers.” She chose to do all her design, manufacturing, and production in Colombia to support her community and maintain the brand’s essence.
“All the materials embrace the Baobab essence,” Espinosa said, “and create a unique universe in the store.”