About us
BLENDING HERITAGE
Wrap yourself in the rich history of the Andes, brought to life by centuries-old Italian techniques. Experience the perfect blend of two worlds.
MISSION
QAPAQ was founded to create exceptional and purposeful garments that honour tradition and heritage at its core. The pursuit of excellence is the driving force behind our brand. We ensure every piece is crafted with the finest materials and utmost precision.
Born in Amsterdam, the cradle of sustainable fashion, we are committed to sustainable and fair production in every step of the process. Our made-to-order and made-to-measure approach minimises excess production, always focusing on quality over quantity and growth.
We Value
Excellence
Herritage
Fairness
MEET OUR FOUNDER
Our founder, Adrian Gutierrez, a native of Bolivia, set out to create something truly exceptional by blending together the essence of his heritage with the pinnacle of global craftsmanship. Inspired by the unparalleled quality of vicuña wool, a precious fibre native to his homeland, he sought the world’s best artisans to bring his vision to life. This quest for the perfect knitwear piece led him to Northern Italy, where master artisan women have preserved and refined hand-knitting techniques for generations.
Every garment produced by QAPAQ is a testament to this union of rich traditions and meticulous craftsmanship. The blend of Andean heritage and Italian artistry enables QAPAQ to offer garments that honour the legacy of both cultures while setting a new standard of quality.
OUR COMMITMENT
Our brand embraced a philosophy of sustainability and ethical production from the moment it was conceived, understanding that true luxury comes from both the quality of our products and the integrity of our practices. Through our made-to-order approach, we curb excess production and waste, ensuring that each piece is created with intention and care. QAPAQ vicuña wool is sourced from wild, free-roaming vicuñas in the high Andes of Bolivia. We are dedicated to crafting products using raw materials exclusively from animals that live freely in the wild, captured and sheared only through traditional practices such as El Chaccu, ensuring both their well-being and the preservation of ancestral customs. This makes our process 100% sustainable, transparent and traceable.
News
From the Andes to Your Wardrobe: The Unparalleled Quality of Vicuna Wool
When it comes to luxury fibers, few can compare to the exquisite qualities of Vicuna wool. Derived from the fleece of the Vicuna, a small camelid native to the Andes...
What is 'Fair Trade'?
Fair Trade is a movement that aims to promote ethical and sustainable practices in global commerce. It is an alternative approach to conventional trade, focusing on fair prices, safe working...
The Resurgence of the Vicuna Population: A Success Story
The Vicuna is a magnificent and elusive creature native to the Andes, known for its incredibly soft and valuable wool. However, this species faced a significant decline in population numbers...