A Modern Tribute to Ancient Mexico
Hugo Rosas and his brother Andrés operate a small workshop on the outskirts of Mexico City, where they stitch together tradition and contemporary sport. Their latest venture, the 'Calados del Alma' collection, reimagines soccer jerseys through the lens of pre‑Hispanic iconography and the delicate art of papel picado.
Each piece in the collection draws on ancient beliefs, featuring motifs of deities such as Quetzalcoatl and Mictlantecuhtli, while the designs also echo the vibrant celebrations of Mexico’s Day of the Dead. The brothers translate these cultural symbols into polyester fabrics that mimic the intricate cut‑paper ornaments that inspired them.
Creating a single jersey can take up to three weeks, with eight to ten hours devoted to sewing and cutting the delicate patterns. Since April, the Rosas brothers have produced roughly thirty jerseys, each handcrafted to preserve the integrity of the original artwork while meeting the functional demands of athletic wear.
With the FIFA World Cup on the horizon, Rosas anticipates a surge in interest from fans eager to wear garments that celebrate Mexican heritage. The partnership with the local brand Mexclart not only showcases the craftsmanship behind each jersey but also positions the collection at the intersection of culture, sport, and emerging market demand.