layering dresses

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.

Inspired by fall, Balinese artisan Endah creates this lovely sundress. Crafted from silky rayon, the dress is decorated using the batik method; a wax resist is stamped by hand onto the fabric before it is treated with colorful dyes, resulting in entrancing leaf motifs in green and magenta. The dress is characterized by spaghetti straps and a knee-length skirt.

Alfredo Falcon of Peru designs this striped acrylic poncho with bold colors and a mixture of geometric motifs. A touch of baby alpaca gives adds to the poncho's warmth and feel. Lightweight, the poncho makes a wonderful layering piece.

Alfredo Falcon learned the craft of weaving from his parents, who learned from their parents before them. He says, “We have been a family devoted to the world of textiles for generations. I use modern colors but I remain true to Incan and colonial motifs.”

Alfredo Falcon of Peru designs this striped acrylic kimono-style ruana with bold colors and a mixture of geometric motifs. A touch of baby alpaca, the fine fleece from the season's first shearing, adds to the ruana's warmth and feel. Coconut shell buttons define a sleeve when buttoned. Lightweight, the ruana makes a wonderful layering piece.

Alfredo Falcon learned the craft of weaving from his parents, who learned from their parents before them. He says, “We have been a family devoted to the world of textiles for generations. I use modern colors but I remain true to Incan and colonial motifs.”