When you think about knitwear that you want to luxuriate in, then cashmere usually comes to mind. But our new knits combine impossibly soft baby alpaca fibres with extrafine merino wool for a softness that rivals cashmere. The difference with alpaca fibres is that they are longer than cashmere, which gives knits that unique fuzzy appearance and tactile finish. We've used baby alpaca to ensure superior softness while still benefitting from those long fibres.
Besides the aesthetic quality and the softness, alpaca fibres are durable, sustainable, and hypoallergenic. Alpacas are native to the high Andes in South America, particularly in Peru, and unlike sheep's wool, the fibres they produce lack lanolin, making them hypoallergenic and naturally suitable for sensitive skin.
The sustainability aspect comes from the fact that there over 20 natural shades of alpaca, from ivory to deep browns and blacks, thus eliminating the need for chemical dyes. We've incorporated baby alpaca fibres into a rich blend of extrafine merino wool and recycled nylon across our a range of vests, crew neck knits, and knitted cardigans.
The alpaca adds a beautiful textural quality that can really give your knitwear fits a sense of tactility and depth. Our Graves V-neck vests are a case in point, with the alpaca fibres creating a soft, slightly fuzzy nap. They are a stylish way to complement our wide-leg trousers, creating a contemporary silhouette. The fabric has also been used to produce three tones (green, grey, and brown) in our Blenheim crew neck jumper, as well as our button-up Britten cardigan. Whichever you choose, we're confident you'll become an alpaca advocate.
