The Poncho - An Inca Legacy

Poncho, a word with much history in the Inca´s legacy… It was once pronounced as “Punchu” in the Quechua language, but always meant the same: a practical garment that will always keep you warm when the chill starts.

The amazing history of the Poncho begins deep in the Peruvian Andes thousands of years ago, and the first ones that may have used a poncho were the Inca royalty. The ponchos they used might even have been crafted from Alpaca fibers and had the basic form of a sheet with an opening in the middle for the head; there might have also been extra piece of fabric that served as a hood.

But for the practical use of the poncho, it is common that the word brings up fond memories of those nylon rain ponchos that you used when you were camping or playing soccer, or maybe in Clint Eastwood's old spaghetti westerns.

You may even remember them in pictures or movies of the World Wars… But now imagine if these old ponchos are made of the most luxurious fibers in the world; can you imagine how that must feel? Just divine and elegant, don't you think?

Over generations of fashion interpretation we now see ponchos with turtlenecks, buttons, and with fringes, crafted from knit or woven fabric, and even close-fitting poncho style sweaters.

In the grand Andean tradition, our Peruvian partners have taken the poncho and played with it. Adding modern twists, amazing fabric combinations and sometimes just sticking with the basics. Take a look and you’ll see there are good reasons why the poncho style has lasted. The proper drape of the fabric can add texture to so many different outfits.

It’s easy to take on and off. There are different weights for different times of the year. And we think there’s something about being wrapped up inside warm, luxurious natural fiber that helps transport you to your happy place.
So go on, be happy, we dare you...