Growing up in Mexico, Nativa founder Tressa Castro developed a love for the beautiful needlework of traditional Mexican blouses and guayaberas. She went on to receive a master's degree in textile design, and after focusing on graphic design for a few years, shifted her career after gifting a collection of handmade blouses to a group of friends visiting Mexico. As demand for these items grew, Tressa opened her own showroom, and in 2010, she launched Nativa in the Alamo Heights district of San Antonio, Texas. 

Today, Nativa is a growing lifestyle brand dedicated to sharing the talents of fair trade artisans throughout remote villages in Mexico. The shop focuses on handmade Mexican blouses, dresses, and accessories.