Emperatriz Pleated Alpaca Wool Shawl
A soft alpaca layer that wraps the shoulders in warmth without weighing them down. The Emperatriz is knitted in Peru from 100% alpaca wool, with rows of gentle pleats that fall in tiers across the body and finish in a long, swinging fringe. Its asymmetric shape dips to a point on one side, so it moves with every step and sits as easily over a silk blouse as over a winter knit.
An arm slit keeps one hand free while the shawl stays on the shoulders, through a day of errands, an evening out or a long journey. With the point at the front, the side or the back, one piece gives three quite different looks. Alpaca is gentle next to the skin, and many people who find wool itchy wear alpaca comfortably.
- 100% alpaca, knitted in Peru
- Tiered pleats with a long tassel fringe
- Asymmetric shape with an arm slit
- Can be worn with the point at the front, side or back
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Items in stock are dispatched the same day on weekday orders placed before 3pm UK time. Orders placed after 3pm, or at the weekend, are dispatched on the next working day. Orders placed on a bank holiday are dispatched within two working days of the holiday.
If an item is out of stock, we can usually make it to order. Many pieces in the Lacorine collection are made in limited numbers and colours, and some take considerable time to make. Production times vary, so we will contact you with an estimated dispatch date before we go ahead.
Alpaca is one of the most sought-after natural fibres in the world, and it grows in 22 natural shades, from white and champagne through fawn and caramel to deep brown, grey and black. Every piece in our collections is made from alpaca raised in the high Andes of Peru.
Softer, lighter, kinder to skin
• Fine alpaca fibre has a smooth surface, which gives our garments their silky handle and gentle sheen.
• Alpaca is light to wear and holds warmth well, so a scarf or hat gives real warmth without bulk.
• Alpaca is low in grease compared with sheep's wool, so many people who find wool itchy wear alpaca comfortably.
• Alpaca sheds light rain and moisture, keeping its shape and feel in damp weather.
Made to last
• Alpaca is a strong fibre that wears better than sheep's wool, so a well-made garment keeps its look for years.
• It holds its surface and resists pilling with normal wear.
• It is a natural protein fibre, so it is slow to catch light and, at the end of a long life, biodegrades.
Our fair trade principles
Lacorine works directly with communities of alpaca herders and skilled makers in the Peruvian Andes. Together we design, make and sell alpaca garments and accessories of the highest quality, drawing on Peruvian textile traditions. The alpacas come first: they are shorn, never harmed, and our fur comes only from animals lost to the hard Andean winters. Our work supports sustainable alpaca farming, so these traditions carry on with the next generation of herders and makers.
We are members of BAFTS, the British Association for Fair Trade Shops and Suppliers, a network of independent shops and suppliers promoting fair trade retail in the UK. We pay fairly and work to fair conditions with everyone who makes our products.
Read more about our fair trade principles and sustainability
The Fibre
Alpaca fibre is valued for its exceptional softness, natural warmth, and durability. Lightweight yet insulating, it regulates temperature and retains its shape over time, making it well suited to seasonless wear.
Craftsmanship
Crafted in Peru by skilled artisans, each piece reflects generations of textile knowledge refined through contemporary design. Traditional techniques are combined with careful finishing to ensure quality, longevity, and a refined hand feel.
Care & Longevity
To preserve the natural qualities of alpaca, we recommend gentle hand washing or professional dry cleaning. Store folded to maintain shape and texture. With considered care, alpaca fibres improve with wear over time.
BAFTS MEMBER