MENIZAS D’AIRE

Menizas D’Aire is a registered brand of Pombo & Azevedo, Lda, based in Mira de Aire, Portugal. Since its founding on October 16, 1973, the company has specialized in crafting traditional Portuguese blankets. The brand’s name comes from meniza — a local slang word for “blanket” in the regional dialect of Mira de Aire.

Driven by an innovative spirit, Menizas D’Aire aims to revive and reinterpret regional weaving traditions. The brand breathes new life into the ancestral blanket, transforming it into fashion-forward accessories while preserving the vivid colors and distinctive patterns that define its roots. At its core, the mission remains clear: to safeguard this cultural legacy and pass it on — keeping the identity of the region alive for future generations.

In 2023, the brand showcased this evolution through the exhibition “Menizas D’Aire: From Tradition to Innovation” at the Porto de Mós Tourist Office, highlighting the blend of heritage and contemporary style.

The following year, Menizas D’Aire collaborated with designer Joana Duarte of Béhen to create a striking collection for Moda Lisboa. Blankets from Mira de Aire were transformed into jackets, skirts, and trousers — bridging tradition and high fashion on an international stage.

Now recognized beyond Portugal, Menizas D’Aire exports most of its production worldwide, serving as a reference point in the region’s textile industry.

SUSTAINABILITY

Menizas D’Aire is built on a deep commitment to sustainability. By using high-quality recycled cotton, the brand significantly lowers its environmental footprint, breathing new life into existing fibers instead of consuming fresh raw materials.

Its approach is circular — transforming leftover fabric and offcuts into unique clothing and accessories, reducing waste while adding creative value.

Every blanket is woven on traditional looms by skilled artisans, preserving age-old techniques and celebrating local craftsmanship. Beyond environmental impact, the brand plays a key role in supporting jobs within Portugal’s depopulated interior — helping to sustain rural communities and combat regional decline.

By creating meaningful, local employment, Menizas D’Aire fosters economic resilience and encourages younger generations to stay rooted in their homeland — proving that tradition and innovation can move forward together, in harmony.