The materials, people and stories behind our creations.
Our Approach to Animal Welfare
At INVERNA, we are firmly opposed to animal cruelty and believe in treating every living being with respect. We are committed to ensuring that our products reflect this respect for nature and the animals from which our materials originate.
Peru is home to approximately 87% of the world's alpaca population, making it the leading country in alpaca breeding. For centuries, raising these emblematic Andean animals has been an essential part of life and livelihoods in Peru's high-altitude communities.
However, thousands of alpacas die each year as a result of the region's harsh winter conditions. In areas of Puno, located more than 4,000 meters above sea level, temperatures can drop to as low as -21°C. Snowfall and extreme cold can freeze grazing lands, leaving alpacas without access to food and, in many cases, leading to their death.
These conditions have a significant impact on local communities, whose livelihoods depend largely on alpaca farming. The situation is so severe that authorities frequently declare states of emergency in these Andean regions.
A More Considerate Use of Materials
For alpaca farmers, deliberately sacrificing an animal for its hide would make little economic sense. Alpaca fiber, which can be worth nearly three times as much as the hide, is the primary source of income for these communities. Since alpacas can live for up to 20 years, losing an animal also means losing many years of potential fiber production.
At INVERNA, we give a second life to alpaca hides that would otherwise go unused, transforming them into distinctive pieces such as handbags, footwear and accessories. These products are crafted in collaboration with artisan communities across Puno, Cusco and Lima, Peru.
Growing Together with Artisan Communities
At INVERNA, one of our fundamental goals is to grow alongside the community of artisans and producers who make our collections possible. We seek to create meaningful work opportunities that contribute to the livelihoods of local families, including both mothers and fathers who support their households.
We strive to provide a safe and fair working environment for our artisans, whose time, knowledge and skills are reflected in every piece they create. Each product represents not only their craftsmanship, but also their commitment to quality.
When choosing an INVERNA piece, our customers become part of a value chain built around local craftsmanship, collaboration and fair work.
Where Craftsmanship Meets Contemporary Design
At INVERNA, we bring together Peru's rich artisanal heritage and contemporary design. We look beyond traditional color palettes, exploring more vibrant and expressive tones while preserving the techniques and knowledge passed down through generations.
Over the years, we have worked closely with artisan communities in different parts of Peru, including Isla Amantaní and Juliaca in Puno; Sicuani and Canchis in Cusco; and Cieneguilla and Huaycán in Lima.
Through these collaborations, we have gained valuable ancestral knowledge of leather craftsmanship and material treatment. This ongoing exchange has allowed us to refine our techniques and develop pieces distinguished by their exceptional softness, texture and comfort.
Join Our Community
If you are an artisan who shares our passion for creating exceptional and distinctive pieces, we would love to hear from you.
Join us in bringing Peruvian craftsmanship to the world.