wool

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.

Waldo Berrios's gorgeous design hides a mystic message from the ancient Inca culture. Working with an alpaca blend material, the Peruvian artisan crafts this poncho with long sleeves in a palette of black, beige and orange hues, featuring traditional geometric motifs reminiscent of the chakana sign, a figure used to represent the unity between the spiritual and natural world.

Knit of a soft alpaca blend, this sweet poncho displays wave and diamond patterns. Peruvian artisan Cristina Villalobos designs this magnificent accessory, which features a solid color in ivory. Dangling fringe work completes this poncho.

Geometric motifs stretch across the bottom of this ruana in black, golden brown, and ivory colors, featuring a complex design by Peruvian artisan Waldo Berrios. Knit from alpaca blend fibers, the ruana is warm and reversible, capable of fitting any mood.

The unique shades of the minerals found among the Andean mountains in Peru inspire artisan Alfredo Falcon to create this stylish ruana, the perfect complement to your winter ensemble. Knit from a soft alpaca blend in spice, antique ivory and smoke hues, this versatile layering accessory features subtle crochet details for added artisanal texture.

Geometric and floral motifs merge to evoke the classical aura of Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca empire. Peruvian artisan Edison Canal uses black and grey alpaca yarns to craft this gorgeous poncho with a soft texture that will make you feel warm and comfortable. As a sophisticated touch, little tassels dance with the design.

Wrap yourself in luxury with this stunning poncho where breathtaking shades of blue mingle effortlessly in a masterpiece crafted from sumptuously soft baby alpaca yarns. Designed by Peruvian artisan Tomas Sota, it exudes sophistication with its intricate honeycomb pattern and elegant shawl collar that matches the bordered long sleeves and hem. Whether you're strolling through the city or attending a winter soirée, elevate your ensemble with this exquisite accessory that seamlessly combines style and warmth.

Luxury envelops you in this exquisite poncho, a masterful creation by Peruvian artisan Tomas Sota. Crafted from soft baby alpaca yarns, it embraces you in a delightful rosewood hue that exudes warmth and sophistication. The intricate honeycomb pattern and elegant shawl collar, perfectly mirrored in the long-sleeve accents, unite to blend fashion and function, making it a must-have for your winter wardrobe.