warm sweaters

Patricia Lopez creates this cozy warm taupe sweater from soft 100% alpaca and decorates it in a knitted diamond pattern. Vertical cables that flow down the sides and the upper arms add a flattering shape.

The Andean artisan worked for years as an industrial engineer before throwing in the towel to follow her passion for traditional Peruvian textiles and fashion. She runs a workshop in the capital city of Lima where she creates apparel and accessories that mix traditional and contemporary techniques and designs.

Bold geometric motifs in taupe on ivory make this sweater from Peru's Fernando Cano a standout. The pullover is knit from soft, warm 100% alpaca yarns, and the taupe motifs feature a fluffy boucle texture. Rib knit trim completes the sweater at the collar, cuffs and hem.

The bold, but not overly so, geometric designs on this pullover draw the eye up towards your face. Created in 100% alpaca by Anaychay of Peru, this sweater is both soft and warm, and will be a favorite all winter. Once reserved for Inca royalty, alpaca is extremely warm yet lightweight.

This handsome men's pullover is sure to become a wardrobe staple. Designed by Wilber Calapuja in Peru, the zip-neck sweater is knit from soft, warm 100% alpaca wool in a heathered mushroom shade. Mixed cable and rib stitches add textural interest.

Professing a love for nature, this stunning cardigan from Peru is created by Ana Fernandez. She knits this warm accessory from 100% baby alpaca wool, the fine fleece from the season's first shearing. Floral and bird motifs in antique white decorate a body of tan, accented by stripes at the wrists and waistline. A coconut shell button-up front completes this lovely sweater.

Artisan Ana Fernandez of Peru designs this men's long-sleeve pullover sweater made from luxuriously soft 100% alpaca wool. In shades of brown and grey, the striped sweater features a variety of geometric patterns inspired by traditional motifs.

About her designs, the artisan says, “For me, designing is a fusion of ideas. I blend fashion trends with my own favorite sources of inspiration, which are Victorian textiles and our Peruvian culture. I love designing apparel of alpaca wool and cotton because this really makes a contribution to society. It lets me give jobs to local people, especially women who want to get ahead and move to central Peru seeking a better future.”