Taking on this week's #WomanCrushWednesday, Dörte de Jesus continues the chain with the woman she's crushin' on hard. 

WHO// Cecilia Portela

CAREER// Founder and Creative Director of MATKA.

WHY// Cecilia is one of the most gentle and kind people that I’ve met and at the same time, she is a true adventurer…

During a trip to Nepal, she discovered the art of hand-weaving and fell in love with the delicate making of raw silk. She never intended to start a fashion brand but when she saw the opportunity to produce beautiful garments in an ethical way and in collaboration with skillful artisans, she created Matka – her clothing line of simple and effortless pieces. 

 
"L O V E | Amazing @sophie_bogdan beautifully captured by @candagarslani | Wearing our Fine Cashmere Panties. . .
#talentedfriends #matkajournal" @__matka__

My first encounter with Cecilia was of a virtual nature. I discovered her designs on Instagram and the first time we talked was via Skype. Only about a year later did we meet in person when she came to London for a visit, and we’ve been in loose contact ever since. I often wished we lived closer and could just grab a coffee, have a chat in the sun, and exchange thoughts and ideas.


"So happy to be part of @pul_perro and @laurasolano7 ‘s latest work • It will be presented in the Official Competition of @filmadrid • The young-lady does not age, she decomposes • June 9th 6pm @cbamadrid •"  @__matka__

What I admire about Cecilia is her idealism and how she approaches her work in a thoughtful and heart-centered way. Her pieces of clothing are precious, they are one-of-a-kind or very limited editions. Cecilia’s work is grounded in a deep respect for the natural materials that she uses and for the craftsmen who produce her designs. Her garments are equally nostalgic and forward-thinking. Created with love and made to give comfort and ease, they build a beautiful antidote to the disconnected and often destructive world of contemporary fashion. 

Follow Cecilia via her Instagram here @__matka__ – and report back next week to see who she will be nominating as her #WomenCrushWednesday...