Mamacita has many meanings. Literally, it translates to “little mother,” but colloquially it can describe an attractive woman or serve as a sweet nickname for someone dear. For Miami-based fashion label Carolina K and model Helena Christensen, the name of their newly launched line captures all those nuances — strength, sensuality, and affection — while also honoring the Andean elders who hand-knit each piece.
Launched on October 24, Mamacita draws inspiration from both Carolina Kleinman, the Bolivian-Argentine designer who founded Carolina K in 2005, and Christensen, the Peruvian-Danish supermodel, as well as from the South American mothers who shaped them. In fact, the collaboration became a deeply personal creative journey when Christensen returned to her mother’s hometown of Lima, Peru, after decades away. She brought her mother, Elsa, along, and together they reconnected with family while visiting historic neighborhoods and art galleries from their past.
“We were in my hotel room looking at all the pieces, and we were all just expressing how important it felt. For them, it was a personal trip, and I got to be part of that,” Kleinman tells Refinery29 Somos.
Timed to the 20th anniversary of the Carolina K brand, Mamacita represents both a creative milestone and a heartfelt tribute to the communities that have inspired Kleinman’s vision from the start. For nearly two decades — long before sustainability became a buzzword — Kleinman has championed ethical fashion through handcrafted pieces that celebrate ancestral techniques and empower the artisans who keep them alive. Working with makers in remote regions of Mexico, Peru, and India, her brand continues to honor cultural traditions while protecting the planet.
“We are not about inventing something new every season. Instead, we want to give what we make a longer life. The more timeless we get to do things, the better it is for everyone,” Kleinman says. “Some things are just classic. And we wanted to create a brand that was classic and meaningful.”
From limited-edition hand-embroidered garments and Peruvian-made knitwear to design details inspired by the Andes and the ocean, the collection embodies a timeless elegance.
As Kleinman explains, the capsule includes pieces “for every occasion.” In the lookbook, Christensen models the collection in moments that span her life’s journey: dipping into the ocean, walking through the Lima neighborhood of Barranco, attending a dinner party, and wandering the cool mountains. “There’s a look for every moment in our lives, because it represents different women. There’s not one prototype of a woman.”
Swipe through to discover some of our favorite pieces from the Mamacita collection.
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This 100% organic cotton strapless ivory midi dress features a ruched bodice and a full skirt, giving it elegant volume and movement. Meanwhile, delicate navy soutache-embroidered floral motifs and a striped hem subtly evoke the Andean landscape.
Carolina K Carolina K’s Malla Dress, $, available at Carolina K
A softly tailored knit cardigan that transitions effortlessly from laid-back afternoons to polished evenings, it’s a perfect layering piece.
Carolina K Carolina K’s Marjorie Cardigan, $, available at Carolina K
From a seaside dusk to a mountain retreat, this dress is designed to capture moments. Its design details reflect the collection’s ethos of timeless versatility and subtle cultural references.
Carolina K Carolina K’s Amelia Dress, $, available at Carolina K
With “Mamacita” sprawled on the front, this soft-knit sweater brings warmth and attitude. Its defining silhouette and rich texture channels the collection’s homage to strong women and enduring craft.
Carolina K Carolina K’s Mamacita Sweater, $, available at Carolina K
This gorgeous navy linen mini skirt offers sweeping movement and elegant structure, balancing a clean silhouette with artisan-inspired detail. Pair it with a simple top and let the craftsmanship do the talking.
Carolina K Carolina K’s Amara Skirt, $, available at Carolina K
The V-neckline of this sleeveless beige linen vest seamlessly transitions from a warm coastal evening to a layered fall look. The versatility and simplicity of this tailored vest makes it a staple.
Carolina K Carolina K’s Sun Vest, $, available at Carolina K
The Regina Dress melds fun and timelessness. Its ruby marble print pattern captures the collection’s narrative of honoring heritage while remaining approachable and functional.
Carolina K Carolina K’s Regina Dress, $, available at Carolina K
This black high-waisted midi skirt features a bold multicolor botanical motif with hand-painted leaf details in rich red, orange, and blue tones. It’s timeless, cozy, sophisticated, and stands out without shouting.
Carolina K Carolina K’s Larissa Skirt, $, available at Carolina K
Yes, there’s another vest. The ruby marble, sleeveless knit Fox Vest offers a cozier look. Wear it over a lightweight dress or high-waisted skirt to add more elegance.
Carolina K Carolina K’s Fox Vest, $, available at Carolina K
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