Hortensia is the product of three generations of French women raised in Peru. Michelle and Elizabeth came up with the idea of designing a knitwear line inspired by Aunt Hortensia, the "knitting guru" of the family.

Hortensia is entirely handmade by skilled knitters, lifelong craftswomen, who collaborate on a design by suggesting a stitch, an embroidery or a special crochet finish. Michelle and Elizabeth have a long time committed relationship with these artisans, together they implement new designs and colors and oversee the quality of each piece. Aunt Hortensia continues to knit, while making sure her good name is being used wisely…

Hortensia (like her namesake) is feminine silhouettes paired with bold colors and secret stitches from the "family book". It's hip and sophisticated, with infusions of traditional Peruvian knitting techniques.

The line includes luxurious sweaters and accessories made in the softest Alpaca wool. And in the warmest fall colors we have created a line of light and layerable pieces for the cold months ahead.

Let us add some chic and warmth from the Andes to your wardrobe.

ALPACA WOOL

Peruvian alpaca is even rarer than cashmere. Alpacas, cousin to the llama, were first domesticated, thousands of years ago in the Peruvian Andes.

During Inca times, alpaca fiber was both a status symbol and a prized trade item. Finer grades of alpaca were reserved for use of the Inca. Today alpacas are found at 10,000 to 14,000 feet in the harsh altiplano regions of Peru. Its thick sumptuous coat grows as an adaptation to the extreme steepe-like enviroment. It is considered a scarce, unique and luxury material due to its remarkable characteristics:


Texture: Exceptionally light, the alpaca blends wonderfully with other natural and synthetic fibers. Alpaca garments display and excellent drape.

Colors: Alpaca fiber comes in a variety of 40 natural shades, ranging from blacks through browns and whites, including subtle shades of maroon, peach and grays.

Durability: Alpaca wool is stronger and warmer than merino wool. The fiber is naturally resistant to piling, wrinkling and staining.

Softness: Alpaca clothing is comfortable, light and much more breathable than wool or cashmere.

Thermal quality: Alpaca fiber is hollow, thereby providing excellent thermal properties.

Non-allergic: Alpaca is free from lanolin's making it Hypo Allergic ( non itchy).

Impermeability: Alpaca fiber does not retain water.

Caring for your Alpaca Item:

We recommend dry cleaning—twice per season should be more than enough. Another option is to hand wash in cold water using a soft detergent, then lay the item on a flat surface to dry.