work dresses

The weavers of Chiapas work hard, not only to keep making traditional items with traditional techniques, but also to use their centuries-old techniques to create new designs for the world. An example is this set of four burnt orange placemats with white windowpane checks, suitable for any modern home. Woven by hand on a backstrap loom, it comes from the Aid to Artisans organization, which works to help the indigenous people of this state maintain their traditional lifestyles.

Combining ivory, turquoise, and tangerine, Stefano Basso weaves an elegant and versatile ruana cloak. He works with luxurious baby alpaca, the fine fleece from the season's first shearing. Cozy, warm and beautiful, it features suede trim on the borders.

Perfect for keeping warm during the cold months, this men's cardigan is designed by Peruvian artisan Fernando Cano. He works with soft 100% alpaca yarns, knitting this masculine sweater with intricate wave patterns in azure and sunrise with graphite trim. A button front and shawl collar complete this cold weather necessity.

This artsy cardigan is the perfect statement piece. Patricia Lopez knits it from grey cotton with an abstract jacquard pattern in punchy red and orange tones. Try it out with jeans or paired with a smart skirt.

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.

The ancient Inca empire considered its textiles the most valuable treasures in the nation, creating a long lineage of artisans specialized in transforming yarns into works of art. Part of this tradition, Peruvian artisan Liceth Principe shows today her innate talent with a cozy alpaca blend cardigan in a warm palette featuring a cherry base hue. The garment comes with a striped pattern depicting classic Inca motifs. Furthermore, it has soft long sleeves, a crew neckline, and a buttoned-up closure allowing you to add a little personal touch to the style.