Alpaca Artwear is a social business that sells handmade hypoallergenic scarves and hats for men, women and children. It began after the founder spent time in the Peace Corps in Andean Colombia. "The Andean culture enchants and amazes. It’s the air, the altitude, the attitude; and the magnificent landscape; the warmth and kindness, the 'mi casa es su casa' mindset of the people; the colorful hand-crafted clothing … all this, set against the barrenness of the highlands," the company's about page reads. "The Andean people have found a way to live and create things of majesty and beauty in inhospitable climes."
Their goods are fair trade certified and the company has a partnership with women artists in Bolivia in order to support fair wages.
Contact Information
Alpaca Artwear website
Handmade Hypoallergenic Clothing
Alpaca Artwear Cultivates and Commodifies Andean Allure
Trend Themes
1. Handmade Hypoallergenic Clothing - Disruptive Innovation Opportunity: The market for hypoallergenic clothing is growing, presenting opportunities for businesses to offer handmade, allergen-free garments.
2. Fair Trade Certified Goods - Disruptive Innovation Opportunity: The demand for fair trade products is increasing, creating opportunities for businesses to partner with artisans and support fair wages.
3. Social Impact Businesses - Disruptive Innovation Opportunity: Social businesses like Alpaca Artwear are gaining popularity, providing opportunities for entrepreneurs to combine profits with positive social impact.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion and Apparel - Disruptive Innovation Opportunity: The fashion and apparel industry can benefit from offering handmade hypoallergenic clothing and tapping into the growing market for allergen-free garments.
2. Artisanal Craft - Disruptive Innovation Opportunity: The artisanal craft industry can find opportunities by partnering with fair trade organizations and supporting artisans to create unique and ethically-made products.
3. E-commerce - Disruptive Innovation Opportunity: As more consumers shop online, the e-commerce industry can capitalize on the demand for socially responsible products by offering fair trade goods and supporting social impact businesses.