Alpacas are a member of the South American Camelids, related to camels and cousins to llamas. These animals evolved over thousands of years developing a fine hair with incredible softness, fineness, length, warmth, and strength; and were the second species to be domesticated. Their special fibre is a result of their harsh environment and the elevation in which they originated, the Andes Mountains of South America.

Alpacas are smaller than llamas, (about 3 ½ feet high), with an average weight of 175 pounds. Their bodies are totally surrounded by hair except for their feet and face. Alpacas have always occupied a major position in the economic life of the region, serving as a source of clothing, transportation, food, and fuel; but have required human intervention for their survival. Pre-dating even the Incas, they were almost extinguished by the arrival of the “Conquistadores.” And even today, Alpacas need humans to survive the predators and conditions found in their natural environment.

Alpaca fibre, as mentioned above, has a natural beauty hard to equate. Its almost hollow fibre provides for the characteristic warmth and lightness. Many rate its warmth superior to many types of wool. There are two main alpaca fibres currently utilized in the fashion industry: Baby Alpaca, the softest available in the market, and Alpaca Superfine, usually referred to just as 100% Alpaca. The term “Baby Alpaca” is used to communicate the unique softness of the fibre. The alpaca fibre also offers the largest range of natural colors in the world, which vary from black to white, and extend into an ample scale of grays and browns.

Today the alpaca fibre plays an important role in the sophisticated world of high fashion and alpaca garments are much sought after.