FAMILY 02
Natural luster, surprising lightness.
The fiber of contemporary outerwear.
The fiber
Alpaca is raised in the Peruvian and Bolivian Andes at altitudes exceeding 4,000 meters. The fiber is shorn once a year and is distinguished by a unique characteristic: the hollow structure of the hair, which makes it lighter than wool and gives it an unmistakable natural luster, similar to silk but with superior warmth.
Menchi primarily works with Baby and Royal alpaca — the finest qualities, with fineness ranging between 18 and 22 microns. The result is a fabric that stands out immediately to the touch and the eye: soft, luminous, with a fluid drape that perfectly suits contemporary outerwear.
The Menchi Alpaca family includes smooth fabrics, fabrics with surface effects (bouclé, short pile), blends with cashmere and wool, and technical items for accessible luxury.
Fineness Royal - Baby - Suri
Why choose it
Natural luster
The hollow structure of the fiber reflects light in a unique way. A Menchi alpaca fabric has a natural luminosity that no chemical treatment can replicate.
Exceptional lightness
For the same level of warmth, alpaca weighs up to 30% less than wool. A Menchi alpaca coat is a garment that is not felt on the body: it is the definition of contemporary luxury.
Hypoallergenic
Alpaca does not contain lanolin, the substance that causes typical wool allergies. It is the ideal choice for those with sensitive skin or intolerances to traditional animal fibers.
Pilling resistance
The long fiber of alpaca resists pilling much better than wool. A Menchi alpaca fabric maintains its original appearance over time, even with intense use.
The items
A selection of currently available items. Contact us for the complete swatch book.
AL-001
Smooth Baby alpaca fabric. Brilliant surface, silky hand. For coats and overcoats of great contemporary elegance.
AL-002
Alpaca bouclé effect with irregular loops. A fabric of great visual and tactile character. For outerwear with a strong personality.
AL-003
The most requested blend: the luster of alpaca meets the softness of cashmere. A fabric that combines the best of two noble fibers.
From raw material to fabric
01
Selection and classification
The raw fiber is classified by fineness, length, and natural color. Alpaca has 22 recognized natural colors — Menchi leverages this natural chromatic richness to reduce the use of dyes.
02
Dyeing and preparation
Dyeing takes place in the fiber or yarn, depending on the desired effect. The natural colors of alpaca require less fixative, resulting in brighter and more durable colors over time.
03
Weaving and structure
The fabric structure is designed to enhance the natural luster of the fiber. Weaves are chosen to maximize light reflection on the fabric surface.
04
Delicate finishing
Alpaca finishing requires lower temperatures and pressures compared to wool. Each item is finished with specific cycles to preserve the luster and softness of the fiber.
Explore other families
Request the swatch book
Contact us to receive the updated swatch book for the Cashmere family or to discuss a custom development project.