ALPACA FIBERS
Alpaca is a renewable, natural protein fiber that Peruvians have worn for hundreds of years.
This material is sustainable and helps support 70 - 80% of the annual family income in the highlands.
WHAT MAKES ALPACA FIBERS
SUSTAINABLE?
It starts with the alpaca. Alpacas have a significantly lighter grazing habit, nibbling only the tops of grasses and leaving root systems intact and undamaged, allowing them to grow back again. Their hooves are softly padded, which reduces environmental impact. Additionally, alpaca fibers do not contain grease or lanolin, so no harsh chemicals or detergents are required for cleaning. When properly cared for, alpaca apparel and accessories can last a lifetime. Our alpaca garments boast exceptional longevity, reducing the need for frequent repurchasing and promoting sustainable fashion.
THE PROCESS
Our alpaca fibers come from the Peruvian highlands, where alpacas are bred and sheared in the open mountain ranges. It's crucial to shear alpacas to keep them healthy, as an overload of hair can lead to parasites, dirt, and excessive weight that deforms their backs. In Peru, shearing typically occurs between October and December when warm temperatures and the first rains create ideal conditions. After shearing, the fibers are sorted by hand and spun into yarn for garment making.
THE BENEFITS OF ALPACA
Alpaca fibers, free of lanolin, are hypoallergenic and offer a warmer, stronger, lighter, softer, and longer-lasting alternative to other luxury materials in the fashion industry. Alpacas play a crucial role in supporting the local Peruvian economy, involving breeders, master sorters, spinners, and knitters. With around 80% of the world's alpaca population living in Peru, this industry supports approximately 120,000 families. By partnering with independent weavers in the remote highlands, we help preserve a craft passed down through generations, enabling families to sustain their livelihoods. Although our alpaca garments can last many lifetimes, they are 100% biodegradable if they reach a landfill, as we avoid using synthetic fibers, ensuring a safe and clean return to the soil.