OUR SUSTAINABILITY PROMISE
The Designer is actively working to achieve an industry where human rights and sustainability are not the effect of an initiative, but the cause of a business well run. Because of this philosophy, she thrives to work with sustainable fibers and materials aim to reduce fabric waste and shift toward a more responsible usage of chemicals, water, and energy. Tradition and inter-generational heritage have formed the codes of the Valerie Garmino brand since its foundation.
BABY ALPACA WOOL
“My love for alpaca began way before I started studying luxury fabrics and their properties,” Garmino says. “When I was a little kid, I got an alpaca sweater from my mom as a gift. The softness, comfort, and beauty of the alpaca wool have a special place in my heart.
When I was finishing my fashion studies in Paris, I realized that I wanted to create a legacy that would allow me to do fashion with a purpose. Since I already had some knowledge and experience about the multiple benefits of alpaca, it made sense to introduce this sustainable material in our collections"
Alpaca wool is recognized as one of the most luxurious and sustainable fibers on the world
ALPACA & SUSTAINABILITY
Alpacas save energy
The natural colors of alpaca are undyed, hence, environmental issues associated with the dyeing process are minimized.
The treatment system for the water used in the washing process of alpaca fiber requires less chemicals and energy than what is needed for other animal fibers.
Compared to other animal fibers, alpaca fiber has a low grease content, between 3-4%, which means that much less energy and chemicals are required to remove this grease. Animal fibers from sheep and goat have 15-16% grease content.
Alpaca fiber is considered chemical-free
Alpaca fiber comes in more than 22 natural colors. If you want a special color, you could use a free chemical technique process using plants or vegetables to get a special color. Andean artisans usually dye the alpaca fiber the traditional way, using techniques that are hundreds and thousands of years old and many of the communities and families keep them as a legacy from their ancestors.
Cruelty free and fair trade philosophy
Valerie Garmino ensures her fiber follows a steadfast, cruelty free and fair trade shearing process. Traditionally, the ritual of alpaca shearing is an annual process, and one in which the Andean mountain community pulls together to help one another.
To get the best quality fiber, expert shearers are employed to maximize efficiency of this communal practice and to ensure the animals are well taken care of with the least amount of stress in order to get the best quality fiber.
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