dressy cape

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.

The weavers of the K'amolon K'i K'ojonel organization create this unique adaptation of a poncho. Blending cotton and rayon chenille for both lightness and ease of care, the front of the garment has a unique decorative twist that folds back on itself. The women artisans combine rich berry tones with tan and cinnamon brown. The organization exists to help Maya peoples, especially widows affected by Guatemala's civil war.

Shades of turquoise and royal blue combine in a gorgeous poncho that is sure to brighten up any winter day. Raquel and Gregor hand-weave a striped pattern with a cozy texture using a soft baby alpaca blend. Baby alpaca is the fine fleece from the season's first shearing.

Raquel and Gregor label all their designs with the name Sillpa, which is the Aymara word for describing comfort, softness, and pleasure. The couple aims to preserve their homeland's rich weaving and textile tradition through their work.

Maritza Pacori presents her version of the classic tweed or houndstooth pattern in a lovely fringed shawl woven on traditional looms in Peru. Crafted with a selection of soft baby alpaca yarns, the gorgeous shawl combines light brown with dark beige for an elegant look.

Raquel and Gregor let their Peruvian heritage of sublime textile creations guide them to craft a radiant complement for the season. Baby alpaca, cotton and rayon threads unite in a palette of yellow colors to form this splendid shawl, boasting a classic pattern and fringes—ideal for showcasing your sunny beauty.

The magnificent essence of the Peruvian littoral transforms into a dapper garment thanks to Celinda Jaco's exquisite talent. The artisan uses alpaca blend yarns to loom this navy poncho, accented with stripes at the bottom for a gallant look. Soft and practical, the piece is ideal for a winter day.