All of PAKA’s Products Tell a Story: The Rich History Woven into Each Garment
In the highlands of Peru, a resourceful region where Quechua weavers embed their unique perspectives into cloth and household fibers, PAKA’s sustainable brand finds its inspiration. The weavers leave behind spiritual motifs, such as the condor, puma, and snake, which not only serve as whimsical accents but also stand as guides and protectors, representing balance within the universe. And now, on November 7, PAKA introduces the Heritage Collection, a range that pays homage to the ancestral traditions of the Andes and the weavers who reside there.
For the Quechua weavers, their craft is more than just a job – it’s a way of life. Each design they create becomes a vessel of identity and memory, preserving their culture for future generations. PAKA works directly with the master artisans of Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco (CTTC), honoring the historic lineage of weavers whose techniques can be traced back to the Inca Empire. The brand blends sacred motifs with contemporary silhouettes, preserving tradition with a modern twist.
Introducing the Heritage Collection: A Fusion of Tradition and Contemporary Style
The Heritage Collection includes sweaters, cardigans, and woven accessories like socks and mittens, all graced with important spiritual symbols from Quechua culture. Puma pawprints symbolize strength, while a Papa Tita, or potato flower, represents a gift from the spirit of the Earth. The pieces also feature a color palette inspired by the earth and are made with alpaca-powered fabric blended with other natural and recycled fibers.
But the collection goes beyond just honoring Andean life through fashion. PAKA is giving back five percent of sales to support the CTTC, further supporting the weavers and their community.
A Short Film: A Sensory Journey Through Peru
Alongside the collection, PAKA is releasing a short film directed by Sandra Winther, shot on 16mm film. The film features Lima-born actress Nathalie Kelley and showcases the unbridled creativity and strength of local alpaqueros and weavers. Winther describes the film as an invitation to slow down, feel, and listen to the wisdom carried in the mountains, and to recognize our shared responsibility to care for the earth.
Don’t miss out on PAKA’s Heritage Collection, now available to the public. Watch the trailer for the film here and experience the rich history and culture woven into each garment. 1 of 4Paka 2 of 4Paka 3 of 4Paka 4 of 4Paka
“These aren’t just patterns — they’re reminders,” says Nilda Callañaupa Alvarez, master Quechua weaver and founder of the CTTC. “The Condor calls us to see clearly, the Puma teaches us to stay strong and grounded, and the Snake reminds us that transformation is survival. These were symbols of protection in the Andes, and we need those lessons now more than ever.”
