Winter 2024

SHORT CUTS BUSINESS Shanti Rackley and Taira Hustedt bring the beauty of Peruvian knitwear and an eclectic selection of ceramics, shoes and accessories to their Carmel area shops. Photo: Kelli Uldall Carmel Clothing Collective Creates Oppor tunities in Style B Y R ENE E B R I NCK S A bout a decade ago, Shanti Rackley trad- ed her New York fashion job for a free- lance career that included overseeing knitwear production in Peru. During her downtime, she connected with local craftspeople. “I was fascinated with the artisan coopera- tives and the yarn and raw materials,” she says. Rackley established a clothing company called Tejido, and, after landing back home in the Carmel area, met another former New York fashion professional. Together, Rackley and Taira Hustedt opened brick-and-mortar Tejido locations in Carmel Valley and Carmel. Rackley designs the brand’s handmade sweat- ers, ponchos and other clothing that’s crafted in 4eru. 4ieces incorporate natural fibers, with a focus on texture and timelessness. Hustedt sources unique items from independent artists, including Virginia Sin ceramics and art pieces, Beatrice Valenzuela shoes and accessories, and jewelry by Variance Objects. Tejido’s small, local team values the oppor- tunity to spotlight beautiful work while creating economic opportunities for partners. “It really feels like there is an energy exchange when somebody puts craftsmanship and love into what they do. You can feel that when you’re wearing a garment or putting on a neck- lace,” Rackley says. The Tejido Carmel store on Mission (between 5th and 6th) is open daily from 11am to 5pm. Visit the Carmel Valley location by appointment and on select weekends. For more information, visit www.shoptejido.com . 80 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 2 4