ESCVDO: A Hidden Gem in Barranco, Lima

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What started as a quiet New Year’s walk turned into one of the most inspiring brand visits I’ve ever had.

On New Year’s Eve, I left my hotel with plans to spend a relaxed morning in Barranco. I was headed to the MAC (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo), hoping to soak in a little art before the city got quiet for the holiday.

But like many things that day, the museum was closed.

So I did what I always do when I travel and hit a dead end: I wandered.

The Problem: Closed Doors and Confusing Streets

I’d had ESCVDO saved on my list for a while. I’d seen the brand mentioned in design articles and fashion roundups—celebrated for its luxurious textures, ethical practices, and deep Peruvian roots—but I’d never actually visited the store.

So I plugged the address into my phone and started walking.

Now, if you’ve ever wandered Barranco, you know the streets can feel a bit like a puzzle. Charming, yes—but not always straightforward. The woefully inconsistent building numbers weren’t helping, and I’m pretty sure that I passed the address at least twice.

On one of my loops, I noticed a stunning brownstone—chicly renovated and painted a dramatic dark charcoal. It had that perfect balance of historic charm and minimal polish. I stopped to take a picture, of course.

Spoiler: it was ESCVDO.

The Guide: A Warm Welcome Upstairs

I rang the bell, fully expecting the place to be closed for the holiday. But to my surprise, a cheerful voice answered and buzzed me in.

I stepped inside to find a quiet, chic interior—distressed wood floors, warm-toned walls, everything with a slightly imperfect elegance. I walked up the stairs, still not sure what I was walking into, and then—there it was.

A sunlit landing filled with absolutely beautiful clothing. Not just racks of clothes, but statement pieces: structured coats, woven caftans, crocheted skirts, oversized sweaters. I was in knit heaven. You could tell immediately this wasn’t just a showroom—it was a studio space where clothing and craft came together.

And then I met the sales associate, who was—no exaggeration—one of the most impressive brand representatives I’ve ever encountered.

The Story: ESCVDO, More Than a Brand

She walked me through the brand’s story with clarity and real passion. No jargon, no over-rehearsed pitch—just genuine insight into what ESCVDO stands for:

• Founded in Peru by sisters Quiera and Dugenna Machiavelo, now led by the eldest, Kia
• In operation for over 14 years
• Built on the mission of preserving ancestral techniques, empowering artisans, and designing heirloom-quality clothing
• Self-described as a “mission of love”

And it shows.

ESCVDO currently works with over 430 artisan families across 9 regions in Peru. The majority—about 95%—are women. Women who are often the main providers for their families, many of whom are leaders in their communities. These aren’t just sewing jobs—they’re opportunities to lead, grow, and pass traditions forward.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The name ESCVDO comes from the Spanish word escudo, meaning “shield.”

Historically, shields represented both protection and identity—and the brand sees clothing the same way. Each piece is meant to reflect who you are and what you care about.

The “V” is a nod to Latin American colonial-era script, where the letter “U” was often written as “V.” It’s subtle, but it speaks volumes about the brand’s deep attention to cultural detail.

The Process: Where Design Meets Ancestry

In one of the adjacent rooms, I saw a traditional handloom—the kind used by their longtime artisan collaborator, Don Pedro Quincho (I hope I got that right!). His family continues to pass down the weaving techniques used in many of ESCVDO’s signature pieces.

I also saw the brand’s crocheted top and skirt set—a classic. It’s:

• Hand-made to order
• Available in custom colors and sizing
• Takes 60–80 days to produce
• Priced at $1,300 USD

ESCVDO’s clothes are priced in dollars, and they are on the higher side for two reasons:

1. The brand believes every artisan deserves fair, equal pay across the supply chain.
2. It simplifies international shipping and sales, as the brand is stocked globally.

The Result: From Peru to the World

ESCVDO is proudly rooted in Peru, but it has made its way to some of the most discerning fashion platforms out there. You’ll find them at:

• Net-a-Porter
• Saks Fifth Avenue
• Elyse Walker
• Moda Operandi

That said, nothing beats experiencing the brand in person—especially in their Barranco studio. The space, the story, the people—it’s all part of the design.

If You Go…

Don’t be surprised if you have trouble finding the building. The streets in Barranco aren’t trying to make your life easy. But it’s worth it. Ring the bell. Go up the stairs. And take it all in.

Whether you’re into fashion, design, craft, or just good storytelling, ESCVDO is the kind of place that makes you stop and pay attention.

It was the perfect New Year’s Eve detour.