What is rarer than cashmere, softer than cashmere, and more sustainable than cashmere? The answer is alpaca! Believe it or not, the cute animal that has been all the rage the last few years also produces a textile that is luxuriously soft and it will keep you snug and warm all winter long. A single alpaca can grow enough wool in one year to produce four or five sweaters. These high producing creatures are also gentler on the earth, grazing less than goats without destroying the terrain they inhabit. Alpaca clothing fibers are unbelievably soft, more durable, less likely to pill, lighter, and more hypoallergenic than other wools. Now that you know how fabulous alpaca clothing is, here is a shopping list to help keep you warm this winter including the alpaca sweater you have been dreaming about.
Yara Color Block Cardigan from Figue
The bright colors and vibrant textures of Ibiza were the inspiration for this new item in the Figue 2019 collection. The Yara cardigan is made with a soft alpaca-blend infused with hints of silk. The pom pom embellished belt is a fun accent that helps cinch the waist of this whimsical alpaca sweater. Cover up and stay warm on chilly days with this color block cardigan. The Yara cardigan from Figue sells at Net-A-Porter for $750.
NY Patch Alpaca Cardigan by Gucci
Root for your favorite team, or simply show some collegiate style flair, with this oversized wool-alpaca cardigan from Gucci. The luxuriously cozy piece is edged with a purl-knit house-strip trim. Enameled logo buttons are a classic Gucci touch. The crystal-embroidered appliqué on the back of the cardigan ensures your style shows both entering and leaving a room. Hit a home run with this Major League Baseball approved alpaca clothing by Gucci which sells for $3,800.
Mylo V-Neck Alpaca Sweater with Lace-Up Detail by IRO
Brothers Laurent and Arik Bitton founded IRO in 2005. Their background in the music industry plays a large role in their fashion design. The Paris based label has a rock and roll style to it. This gorgeous alpaca sweater features a lace-up placket at the side. The ribbed neck, cuffs, and hem give the stylish sweater a beautiful silhouette. The nonchalant attitude of this piece makes it a great option for everyday wear. Buy yours for $395.
Oversized Alpaca and Silk-blend Sweater by Mansur Gavriel
Alpaca textiles are already luxuriously soft, but wait till you feel this sweater that has been blended with silk. Mansur Gavriel has created a textile that drapes beautifully and is luxuriously soft. This gorgeous piece has a funnel neckline and an oversized fit. The alpaca sweater gets some needed definition from the dropped shoulders and long-length cuffs. Matching pants complete the look. This warm and soft sweater can be yours for $545.
See by Chloe Crewneck Fitted Alpaca-Blend Sweater with Ruffled Trim
See by Chloe is the hipper, more contemporary side of the Chloe Collection. These alpaca clothing pieces take the house’s glamorous style and apply it to wardrobe basics like tops and skirts. This ruffled trim sweater is made using an alpaca and nylon blend. The pullover style sweater has a crew neckline and long sleeves. The pullover style piece is designed to hug your curves in a form-fitting fashion. This comfy and cute look can be yours this winter for $345.
Baby Alpaca & Virgin Wool Coat by Isabel Marant
This fabulous coat by Isabel Marant will turn heads this winter. Stay warm and snug with this coat that is a blend of baby alpaca and virgin wool. The beautifully woven fabric has been designed to create a richly textured cocoon coat. The classic tortoiseshell buttons are a fabulous accent on this flawless piece. Strut in style in this new Isabel Marant coat for $1,920.
So, which of these alpaca clothing pieces do you love? Will you be rocking an alpaca sweater this season? For more fashionable winter wardrobe suggestions, see our article about the best winter gloves this season.
