Elevate Your Comfort with Playa Yama’s Cultural Fusion

By Robert White, Editor-In-Chief

Playa Yama, the brainchild of Becky Anzaldo, is redefining comfort and style with a unique blend of Mexican and Japanese influences, wrapped in the laid-back spirit of Southern California. Becky’s journey into fashion was paved by her early career in New York City, where she immersed herself in the world of luxury brands. “I always loved getting dressed and working in fashion,” she shares, reflecting on her early days. However, life took an unexpected turn when her mother was diagnosed with cancer. This personal tragedy brought Becky back to Los Angeles, where she found herself seeking solace in simpler comforts during a time of immense loss.

In the midst of grief and adjusting to motherhood, Becky felt a need for something cozy, a tangible source of comfort that wasn’t easily found in the market. “I really needed a cozy sweater that would be perfect for the way I was feeling at the time,” she recalls. It was this desire that sparked the inception of Playa Yama, a brand born from a place of love, resilience, and a deep understanding of women’s needs. Combining her Mexican roots with her Japanese heritage, Becky chose a name that perfectly encapsulates this cultural fusion: “Playa” represents the sun-soaked beaches of Mexico, while “Yama,” meaning mountain in Japanese, symbolizes strength and tranquility. “I wanted to have a little bit of both,” she explains, highlighting her intention to blend these rich cultural influences.

The heart of Playa Yama’s collection lies in its luxurious checkered sweaters, designed for maximum versatility and comfort. Crafted from a unique microfiber knit, the sweaters offer a weighted, cozy feel that wraps the wearer in warmth. “Checker boards are very LA lifestyle,” Becky notes, referencing the signature pattern that has become emblematic of the brand. These pieces are versatile enough for a day at the beach or a cool evening out, making them a perfect fit for the California lifestyle.

Becky’s path to launching Playa Yama wasn’t without its hurdles. During the COVID-19 pandemic, with schools closed and life slowing down, she found herself with the time and space to fully commit to her vision. “It was COVID that really helped me launch this,” she admits. Juggling motherhood while focusing on research, design, and sourcing, she initially envisioned creating a cashmere house gown. However, finding the right U.S.-based manufacturers for knitwear proved challenging, leading her to pivot towards sweaters and blankets instead. This shift was a turning point, allowing her to create pieces that embodied both luxury and comfort, tailored to the needs of real women.

Inclusivity is a cornerstone of Playa Yama. The brand offers sizes up to 5X, ensuring that every woman, regardless of body type, can experience the comfort Becky set out to create. “The whole mission of the brand is to comfort women,” she emphasizes. Becky’s vision extends beyond just style; she aims to provide a sense of security and warmth, especially for women going through physical changes like menopause. “Women were always trying to find themselves, especially the older ladies coming to see me,” she recalls from her time working at a medical spa. This experience reinforced her commitment to designing pieces that make women feel good inside and out, without the need for invasive procedures.

Looking ahead, Becky has exciting plans for the future of Playa Yama. While the checkered sweaters have become a signature staple, she’s been exploring new product ideas behind the scenes. “I’ve been working with manufacturers to create pajamas and dresses,” she reveals, though she remains tight-lipped about the release dates. It’s clear that her vision for the brand is expansive, driven by a deep passion for creating versatile, stylish pieces that resonate with women everywhere.

Playa Yama is more than just a fashion brand—it’s a personal story of cultural pride, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to comfort. Becky’s journey from New York’s fashion industry to creating her own label in Los Angeles is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and her commitment to making every woman feel seen and valued. For those seeking to elevate their style with a touch of SoCal flair, Playa Yama’s collection offers a blend of luxury and ease that feels like a warm embrace. Explore the full range of stylish sweaters and more at www.playayama.com.