ANTWERP Alpaca Crewneck Sweater

Limited Production: 250 pieces worldwide

(50 per color)

Specifications

• Collection: Altitude Theory 2025 Collection
• Design: Antwerp Alpaca Crewneck Sweater 
• Designer: Vladimir J. Costa (vlad.ouvre), Chief Executive Officer & Chief Creative Officer
• Origin: Peru
• Material: 100% Alpaca Wool
• Structure: Precision machine-woven rib-grid knit
• Vision: Architectural form. Modern restraint. Andean integrity.
• Fit: Standard structured crewneck
• Interior: Soft brushed finish
• Hems: Double stitched rib detailing
• Estimated Date: 2025
• Condition: New

Catalogue Note

The Antwerp Design defines the next chapter of From The Andes under the creative direction of Vladimir J. Costa. Each sweater is woven in Peru on precision machinery using pure alpaca yarn, then finished by hand for clean lines and durable structure. The rib-grid texture delivers quiet depth and reliable warmth that holds its shape through years of wear. Only 250 pieces exist, with 50 produced in each tone. No reproductions.

Key Highlights

• Designed by Vladimir J. Costa (vlad.ouvre), Chief Executive Officer & Chief Creative Officer
• Precision machine-woven in Peru using 100% alpaca yarn
• Hand finished detailing for a refined silhouette
• Rib-grid structure for lasting shape and thermal balance
• Exclusive run of 250 total pieces
• Ships next business day from Taos, New Mexico
• 10% of each sale supports NPR

Display and Care

• Fold flat to preserve silhouette
• Cold hand wash or dry clean only
• Lay flat to dry away from heat and direct sunlight

Attribution and Condition Notes

While machine woven for precision, each piece is individually inspected and finished by hand in Peru. Minor variation in knit tension and tone is natural and signals authentic small batch production.

Alpaca: Heritage, Status, and Biological Scarcity

Across Andean history, alpaca was a restricted textile that signaled rank, lineage, and privilege. The finest fiber was allocated to Inca nobility and administrative elites as a controlled resource. Its value originates in heritage, not marketing language.

Comfort Performance

Alpaca contains no lanolin, which eliminates irritation and makes it naturally hypoallergenic. The semi hollow fiber retains heat without trapping sweat. High altitude herders relied on it for warmth and breathability in shifting climates.

Material Superiority

Alpaca competes in the same luxury tier as cashmere but with stronger resilience. It resists pilling, maintains loft, and retains structure with age. Cashmere collapses over time. Alpaca remains refined and strong, which positions it as an heirloom grade textile.

Biological Scarcity

An alpaca produces 5 to 7 pounds of raw fleece per year. After removing coarse fibers, only 2 to 3 pounds of prime grade fiber remain. A single scarf consumes half to three quarters of a pound. This means one animal yields only 3 to 5 scarves annually. This is a biological cap.

Natural Color Prestige

Ivory, camel, stone gray, and deep brown reflect the natural genetics of the animal. Historically these undyed shades carried higher prestige because they signaled purity. Dyeing became common when mills needed to enhance lower grade stock.

Heritage Craft

Traditional weaving introduces a structural feel that industrial systems cannot replicate. Hand tensioning, loom discipline, and artisan finishing influence drape, warmth, and softness without chemical processes.

Why Alpaca Matters

• Prestige rooted in Andean textile hierarchy
• Biological scarcity that limits annual fiber production
• Warmth without sweat retention
• No lanolin and no irritation
• Handwoven heritage structure
• Long term durability that exceeds seasonal fibers

Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed this?
Vladimir J. Costa (vlad.ouvre), Chief Executive Officer & Chief Creative Officer of From The Andes.

Is this available elsewhere?
No. Antwerp is exclusive to From The Andes.

When will it ship?
Ships next business day from Taos, New Mexico.

Size Guide

These sweaters follow American retail sizing standards. If between sizes, choose the smaller size for a tailored fit. Measurements below are garment dimensions taken flat.