fuchsia

The ancient Inca empire considered its textiles the most valuable treasures in the nation, creating a long lineageof artisans specialized in transforming yarns intoworks of art. Part of this tradition, Peruvian artisanLiceth Principe shows her talent in a cozy cardigandepicting classic Inca motifs. Featuring a longer fit,crew neckline, and a covered buttons down thefront placket.

Elegant shades of berry and jade blend gracefully into a geometric pattern on this handwoven shawl from Peru. Talented artisans Raquel and Gregor design the shawl using a soft alpaca blend, perfect for a vibrant look. Long fringes complete the piece with a touch of cheerfulness.

Crafted from a soft blend of alpaca, wool and acrylic yarns, this cozy V-neck sweater boasting beautiful kimono-style sleeves promises both comfort and warmth. The striking combination of multicolored stripes and geometric motifs, prominently featuring bold shades of black, fuchsia and turquoise, delivers an eye-catching design that is sure to turn heads. This stylish winter garment from Peru’s Alfredo Falcon is a must-have that exudes effortless elegance.

Intricate geometric motifs come to life in radiant colors derived from natural dyes. Artisans of the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco work with ancestral techniques to create fashion for today and always. This elegant ruana cape is woven by hand of fine alpaca wool, prized by the ancient Inca for its lightweight warmth. The cloak of many colors includes red, goldenrod yellow, fuchsia and orange, among others.

The community raises and cares for its own alpacas. The fleece is washed, carded and spun by hand using a pushka, or drop spindle. The dyes come from plants, nuts and tree bark. The next step is one of the most important, as the artisan prepares the warp, or vertical threads for the backstrap loom. This determines the size of the textile, the color combinations, and the patterns that will be woven.

The intensity of color can vary depending on the hardness of the water, the altitude and the local dye sources, making each textile a unique piece of handcrafted art.