Designers – Adrian Lopez Veladre & Marte Cázarez
Adrián López Velarde and Marte Càzarez shared a powerful vision: to revolutionize fashion with a unique blend of innovation and sustainability. Their creation, Adriano Di Marte, is not just a brand, but a movement. Based in the heart of Mexico’s Zacatecas, on a sprawling ranch where cactus thrives, the company is redefining the very essence of fashion by crafting materials that don’t cost the earth.
With the growing awareness of leather’s environmental toll, they decided to take action rather than turn a blind eye. They sought a solution, and through tireless effort and dedication, they found it—Desserto. This groundbreaking biomaterial, born from the nopal cactus, is a game-changer. Unlike traditional leather, which wreaks havoc on the environment, Desserto has an entirely different story to tell. The nopal cactus, resilient and resourceful, grows with minimal water, and it offers a sustainable alternative that doesn’t compromise on luxury or quality.
The magic of Desserto lies in its process. For every kilogram of biomass the nopal cactus produces, it consumes only a fraction of the water required by most plants. In fact, while most crops need liters of water for the same output, the nopal cactus survives on rainwater, making it a water-efficient wonder. And the benefits don’t stop there—this humble plant plays a vital role in fighting climate change. It absorbs a staggering 8,000 tons of CO2 every year, while the entire operation emits a mere 15 tons annually.
But their commitment to sustainability doesn’t end with the plant itself. The cultivation of the cactus is carried out with careful consideration, ensuring minimal disruption to the ecosystem. Only mature leaves are harvested, allowing the cactus to continue thriving and flourishing naturally, free from the need for irrigation.
What’s most extraordinary about Desserto is not just its environmental benefits—it’s the feeling of luxury it offers. Soft to the touch, yet durable and versatile, this cactus-based material is the embodiment of high-quality craftsmanship. Adriano Di Marte has created something that blends beauty, function, and environmental consciousness into every piece of fashion. They’ve shown us that fashion doesn’t have to come at a cost to the planet—it can be both beautiful and responsible.
In every creation, Adrián and Marte are reminding us that sustainable fashion isn’t just a trend—it’s the future. Through their innovative, cactus-based materials, they are leaving a lasting impact on the world, proving that you can look good, feel good, and do good—all at once.
